If you’re in the market for a weatherproof stairlift or wondering what other outdoor solutions are available to assist you or a loved one, you’ve come to the right place. At 101 Mobility, we’re proud to support the aging-in-place population, those facing mobility challenges, caregivers, and more with a range of products designed to improve accessibility in your home—including outdoor spaces. Read on to learn more about outdoor lifts and get on the road to a more mobile future.
Are Outdoor Stairlifts Possible?
We understand that it can often be challenging to navigate stairways, porches, raised entrances, decks, and more. These outdoor locations often come with additional obstacles as well, as they’re susceptible to the weather, slippery conditions, and other hazards. But there’s good news—exterior stairlifts are viable and life-changing options available to you. Outdoor lifts are excellent tools, providing next-level access, safety, and the ultimate convenience when you need it most.
What Are Outdoor Lifts and How Do They Work?
When weighing your outdoor lift options, it is important to know that there are a variety of choices available and we’re honored to offer a wide selection of high-quality products to explore. See which lift may be right for you and your unique circumstances.
- Outdoor Stairlifts: Available in straight and custom curved models to fit a variety of staircases, exterior stairlifts are designed to offer reliable transport, withstand weather conditions, and grant easy access to raised spaces. As a lift for outdoor stairs, they are designed specifically for use on staircases, mounted to the steps, and ride along a rail to transport the user. Learn more about their ultimate convenience and our outdoor stairlift installation services.
- Outdoor Vertical Platform Lifts (VPLs): Vertical platform lifts, or “porch lifts,” are extremely useful for accessing porches and decks, providing seamless transportation for those using wheelchairs, power chairs, power scooters, and more. Protected from the elements, they can even be built with a cover or enclosed shaft for additional comfort.
Key Differences Between Indoor and Outdoor Stairlifts
If you opt to take the stairlift route, we provide a wide range of models, including straight, curved, and outdoor options. There are a few key differences between exterior stairlifts and their indoor counterparts. And when it comes to deciding between them, it’s important to remember your own priorities and circumstances. Keep in mind that weatherproof stairlifts are specifically designed for outdoor spaces, with features that can include:
- Durable, Weather-Resistant Materials: Outdoor lifts are often made with protective vinyl, UV-safe upholstery, weather-resistant paint, rust-resistant lift components, and more.
- Sealed Wiring and Water-Resistant Electronics: Rest east knowing your stairlift for a porch is protected from the elements, no matter what the weather has in store.
- Protective Covers and Corrosion-Resistant Tracks: Anodized rails and covered gear racks keep everything safe—and looking sleek.
- Specialized Batteries for Cold Weather: Never worry about running out of power, as battery-operated systems and charge strips ensure your device stays operational.
Whether you’re looking to reach a deck, want support traversing your home’s front staircase, or need a little extra help with something else, these outdoor lifts will be ideal for you, coming with a unique set of perks to fit all your needs and function outdoors year-round. If you don’t need these features and are looking for help ascending the staircases inside your home, an indoor stairlift would be a better choice for you.
When to Choose an Outside Porch Lift
Wondering which one of our outdoor lifts fits your needs best? Let’s break it down. We’re comparing today’s best porch access solutions, stairlifts and vertical platform lifts, to help you better understand the benefits of each.
Exterior stairlifts for porches may be the right option for your circumstances if you’re dealing with a relatively large staircase or have multiple steps with curves. Weatherproof stairlifts for porches and other outdoor spaces consist of mechanical seats that allow users to ascend and descend staircases without having to move or walk themselves. However, they’re ideal for users who are able to transfer to the lift seat. With customizations including weight capacity and seat size, and practical features such as seatbelts and obstruction sensors, they prioritize safety and convenience. Check out our ultimate stairlift guide to learn more about these outdoor lifts and how we specialize in outdoor stairlift installation.
Vertical platform lifts work best for high rises and elevations, like porches and decks, but can also be the perfect solution for staircases in your garage. VPLs are useful for those who use wheelchairs, walkers, canes, and other mobility devices, as little to no effort is required, and they do not have to transfer. With simple paddle-switch controls and remote call, they are easy for a variety of users to operate. They can also be customized to suit a variety of weight capacities, platform sizes, and aesthetic preferences.
Don’t think a lift for outdoor stairs is quite the right solution for you? If you just have a short distance to cover, are dealing with a low rise, or only need help accessing a small staircase with a few steps, a wheelchair ramp may be a more suitable option. We offer a wide range of ramps, including aluminum modular ramps, threshold ramps, multi-fold ramps, and rubber threshold ramps. Check out all our ramps to see if they will fit your needs. Plus, learn more about our best outdoor accessibility aids and waterproof mobility equipment.
Installation Considerations for Outdoor Lifts
When deciding on a style and specific model of outdoor lift for your home or business, you’ll want to ask yourself the following questions:
- How much weather exposure does the installation location get?
- What are your local building codes and does your lift need to be ADA-compliant?
- How big is the location’s mounting surface and what are the required clearances?
- Would you prefer a battery-operated or hardwired device?
Your outdoor space will likely have a unique set of needs and you’ll find that either an exterior stairlift or VPL is best suited to your situation. However, you’ll also want to think about your preferences and priorities. For example, if you need your lift for outdoor stairs to be ADA-compliant, you’ll want to opt for a VPL. And if your location is exposed heavily to sun or rain, you may want to consider a system with a cover or enclosure. Remember, the choice is all yours, but if you do need help deciding, we’re all ears. Contact us anytime. We’ll answer your questions and point you in the right direction. Then, we’ll complete your VPL or outdoor stairlift installation with ease.
How 101 Mobility Can Help With Outdoor Lift Solutions
At 101 Mobility, we’re here to help you live your life fully. The first step to doing so is ensuring you can safely and comfortably access the spaces in and around your home. That’s where we come in. We’re experts in all things weather-rated outdoor mobility solutions, from exterior stairlifts for a porch to VPLs for a garage—and beyond. Schedule your free consultation today. We’ll visit your home, assess your needs, and help you choose between outdoor lifts to find a solution right for your space.
We have a wide range of mobility products and porch access solutions available and employ only the best experts in the business. We also offer warranties and ongoing maintenance services, so you can rest easy knowing your equipment will stay up and running no matter the season. Learn more about the 101 Mobility difference.
Improving Outdoor Accessibility
If you’re having trouble accessing your outdoor spaces, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. 101 Mobility is here to help and we’re honored to offer the best equipment to get you where you need to go. Weatherproof stairlifts and porch lifts are essential tools to consider and they can truly make all the difference when it comes to your safety, comfort, and mobility.
Don’t wait. Let’s get you outside. Explore our full list of outdoor accessibility solutions and contact us for help with your VPL or outdoor stairlift installation today.
