Ramps and platform lifts are both viable options for making buildings accessible to wheelchair users. Use the information here to decide which one is a better option for your project:

Wheelchair ramp pros and cons

Ramps are one of the most common solutions for providing accessible routes. While they can be effective in certain situations, their suitability depends on factors such as elevation change, available space, and user needs. The following section outlines the key advantages and limitations of ramps to help determine when they are an appropriate accessibility solution.
Following are the advantages of using a ramp:

  • Freight-friendly: Ramps allow people to move packages, carts, and equipment in addition to providing pedestrian access.
  • Easy to incorporate in new construction: Ramps can be designed into new buildings from the outset to meet accessibility requirements.
  • Effective for small height changes: Ramps work best for low elevation differences (under about one foot), such as storefront thresholds, sidewalks, and residential entrances.
  • Relatively low cost for short rises: For minor elevation changes, a compliant ramp can be an economical solution.

However, ramps also have some disadvantages:

  • Space requirements: ADA slope and landing requirements mean ramps often require substantial horizontal space, which can be impractical in dense urban areas or where square footage is valuable.
  • Limited usability for taller rises: Ramps become long and physically demanding as elevation increases, making them difficult for many users beyond 18–24 inches of rise.
  • Poor solution for large elevation changes: Ramps are generally impractical for height differences of 2 feet or more and cannot provide access between multiple floors.
  • Aesthetic impact: Long or retrofitted ramps may detract from a building’s appearance, require materials that do not match existing structures, or reduce property value.
  • Portability challenges: Temporary or portable ramps are often bulky, time-consuming to assemble, and require significant storage space.

Platform lift pros and cons

Platform lifts are often used as an alternative to ramps or elevators when space, elevation, or building constraints limit other accessibility options. The following section outlines the key benefits and drawbacks of using a platform lift to help you determine when it is the most appropriate solution. First, the benefits:

  • Discreet, design-friendly appearance: Platform lifts can be installed in unobtrusive locations and are often designed with a clean, modern aesthetic. This makes them well suited for historic buildings, museums, and high-profile venues where preserving architectural character and user dignity is important.
  • Compact footprint: With a typical footprint of approximately 48” × 70”, platform lifts require significantly less space than ramps, making them ideal for facilities with limited floor area.
  • Flexible mobility options: Some models are portable and can be easily moved, deployed as needed, and stored when not in use—making them well suited for stadiums, schools, convention centers, and staging applications.
  • Easy and inclusive to use: Platform lifts provide accessible, low-effort use for individuals with mobility limitations or medical conditions that make ramps or stairs difficult. Controls are designed for operation without full hand, wrist, or arm mobility.
  • Effective for large elevation changes: Unlike ramps, platform lifts can accommodate substantial vertical travel, including multi-level access, with some models reaching heights of up to 14 feet.
  • Supports independent use and dignity: Their compact design and intuitive operation allow users to access different levels independently, without drawing attention or requiring assistance.

Following are the disadvantages of using a platform lift:

  • Limited use in new construction: In most cases, platform lifts are not permitted as the primary means of vertical access in new buildings and are typically allowed only in renovations or alterations. Code exceptions do exist but are limited and situation-specific.
  • Floor modifications may be required: Many platform lifts require either a shallow installation pit or a small entry ramp to accommodate safety components beneath the platform. Creating a pit can be challenging or impractical in renovations or historic buildings. (Ascension lifts are designed for floor-level access without either.)
  • Not suitable for freight: Platform lifts are designed for passenger accessibility and are not intended to transport heavy freight, carts, or industrial loads. Check the size and weight restrictions of a lift if you may need to use it for these purposes.
  • Higher upfront cost: Compared to ramps, platform lifts generally involve a higher initial investment, including both equipment and installation costs.

Additional Resources

  • The United States Access Board provides information about accessibility codes in any facility.
  • Ascension lifts provide a ground level entrance without an installation pit, which makes them an ideal candidate for many projects.
  • Lowes’ provides design suggestions as well as helpful information about code requirements for wheelchair ramps.