When choosing between a ramp and a lift, consider the needs of end users and the specific application. While ramps may seem like a cost-effective solution, they are not always the best option, especially for rises over 24 inches. Long ramps take up significant space, can be difficult for users with mobility impairments, and may lack dignity in accessibility.
Platform lifts, often perceived as only for wheelchair users, serve a broader range of people, including those using walkers, canes, or with other mobility challenges. However, public misconceptions and poor-quality installations have led to lifts being seen as a last resort. This has often resulted in low-cost, unreliable lifts that fail when needed most.
Ramps work well for very low rises (12–18 inches) if space is available, but for higher rises, lifts are more space-efficient and practical. While ramps can accommodate various users, including those with freight or strollers, a well-designed, durable platform lift can serve everyone reliably. Proper investment in high-performance lifts can add value to buildings and provide lasting accessibility, unlike cheap, poorly installed alternatives.