Today, there are many places that a person using a mobility scooter or wheelchair can go. These mobility vehicles have greatly improved since the first electric mobility vehicle of the 1950's, but there are a few obstacles that still stand in their way. The one main obstacle that can be most difficult for an individual who uses a mobility vehicle to overcome is the stairs. Specifically the stairs in their own home, because, at least in the United States, most public areas are required to be made accessible to individuals using mobility scooters.



Not being able to use the stairs in your own home is unacceptable though, so a good number of people choose to use vertical platform lifts in their home. These devices are in many ways very similar to having your own elevator, but unlike an elevator, there is usually not a need for any major home modification. This is because a vertical platform lift is for the most part completely self contained.

While there is generally no need for any home modification, and certainly not anywhere near the amount required for an elevator, it is necessary to have a very strong and solid base. The base should be constructed from wood or concrete and the vertical platform lift will need to be securely bolted into the base.

There are a few lifts available that do not require being bolted to the ground. These lifts are called portable vertical platform lifts, because they are designed to be setup and taken down quickly and easily. These lifts are not able to support as much weight though. They are extremely popular at schools, because there is often a need to provide temporary access to a stage. Generally, unless you intend to regularly move it and specifically need this functionality, it is better to go with a standard semi-permanent vertical platform lift.

These devices are sometimes also called porch lifts or wheelchair lifts. The reason they are called porch lifts is that they are most commonly installed onto a houses porch, but in some cases they can also be used in indoor situations. In most cases though, as far as residential settings go, they are used outdoors.

Porch lifts are made in a manner that makes them highly resistant to even the harshest elements. All components are carefully sealed and the metal is covered in a rust resistant covering. Despite being able to withstand most types of weather conditions, you do not want to put it at risk. Always trim any branches that hang over the lift. This way if there is a severe storm, you do not risk a branch falling on the lift and damaging it or preventing you from using it.

If the porch lift is installed under an overhang, it is a good idea to maker sure that there is something installed to prevent excessive water from falling on it. Commonly gutters are installed, if they are not already present. It is not only important to protect the lift, but also the ground around it. You do not want to constantly have to fight your way through mud to get to your lift, so ensure the gutters extend beyond the lift.

Those that use mobility vehicles, do not need to be worried about the stairs, especially the stairs around their own home. This is why many people choose to use a vertical platform lift.