Wheelchair Elevators

Being confined to a wheelchair is never easy; however, being confined to a wheelchair without the mobility to get up and down stairs when needed is untenable. Fortunately, there are a number of wheelchair elevators which can be installed into an existing building or built in at the time of construction. Both vertical lifts and those on an incline are now easily installed and more affordable than ever. Some of the larger units can move up and down as many as five flights while carrying up to 1000 pounds. Depending on the number of flights and the floor plan of the building in question, you would need to consider whether you need a vertical elevator or an elevator on an incline.

Vertical Wheelchair Elevators

Interior vertical wheelchair elevators can easily be installed when space is limited. They can be constructed in such a way as to allow both front and rear entry and the platform is generally 4.5 feet by 5 feet, unless a custom size is called for. There are a number of companies that both manufacturer and install vertical wheelchair elevators while you can also purchase a do-it-yourself kits. Whether for a place of business or for a residence, vertical wheelchair elevators are among the most popular. Also, vertical elevators are called for when the staircase winds around several levels.

Wheelchair Elevators on an Incline

Wheelchair elevators on an incline are generally installed when the staircase simply goes up one level or perhaps two. If there are several winds in the staircase, wheelchair elevators on an incline would not be well suited. Most often this type of elevator is called for when there is not adequate space to facilitate a more spacious vertical wheelchair elevator. If in doubt, contact a wheelchair elevator distributor, manufacturer or contractor to discuss which option best suits your specific needs. This type of elevator basically works with a system of tracks and pulleys much like an escalator, which is in fact, nothing more than an elevator on an incline.

Getting Quotes on Wheelchair Elevators

There are a number of manufacturers and distributors online that can provide quotes when looking for a wheelchair elevator. If you aren't exactly sure which type would be best suited to the area in question, a representative would be ready to contact you to discuss your needs. It is advisable to contact several manufacturers or distributors before making a decision because each company has a variety of models and of course prices will also vary.

If price is an issue, there is a possibility that certain insurance policies or government agencies can help with the cost. However, wheelchair elevators are more affordable than you would imagine; some models actually only cost a few hundred dollars before installation. Never before have wheelchair elevators been as moderately priced and available to the average household as they now are. This means that no one who is confined to a wheelchair should be without the means to negotiate buildings with several stories, whether at home or at work.