Outdoor lifts and elevators may serve the same function as ramps, but they aren’t always the best choice. Depending on your situation, a ramp may be a better option. Before deciding, consider the following pros and cons.
Why Ramps?
Ramps are usually cheaper. By spreading the distance of a rise over a more horizontal plane, it becomes easier for elderly, mobility challenged and disabled persons to maneuver. It’s no wonder why many restaurants, home owners and retail shops simply build a ramp leading to an entrance. The ramp has very few components and once installed, maintenance is limited.
Why Outdoor Elevators and Lifts?
For short distances and gradual inclines, ramps work well and are cost effective, but when the rise goes beyond a couple feet, building a ramp at manageable angle for the disabled and mobility challenged requires more space. This can reduce retail space and seating for restaurants, cutting into potential profits.
The extra space ramps require not only limits profits, but they can also be eyesores. In these cases, outdoor lifts and elevators can be more attractive. Because individuals don’t need to exert energy to climb the slope, builders can steepen the rise, which conserves valuable space. In fact, we can even build outdoor lifts alongside stairs to conserve space. At Hill Hiker®, we’ve went as high as 80 degrees, and elevators can rise at 90 degrees. It’s no wonder why outdoor lifts and elevators often require as little as a third of the space needed by ramps.
Ramps Aren’t Always Cheaper
The greater the distance of a ramp, the greater the cost. At a certain point, it costs more to build a ramp than an outdoor lift or elevator. Where this point lies can depend on a variety of factors, like materials, location and aesthetics. Most ramps greater than 20 to 25 feet could easily cost more than a new lift system. Ramps of this size tend to carry more risk of structural decay, especially in freezing temperatures.
Before making the final decision on a ramp or lift, make sure you get a number of quotes and ask plenty of questions. Feel free to contact our experts at Hill Hiker®. Our team will be happy to help you find the solution that works for you!
