What is a stairlift?

In its simplest form, a stairlift is a chair with a rail that travels up a staircase, allowing an older adult to securely travel between floors of a home. There are many various types of stairlifts and add-ons and configurations, but the basic concept is the same. Let’s have a look at the many sorts of stairlifts currently available.

Stairlifts with Straight Rails

Because it’s built for the most frequent stairs in homes, a straight rail stairlift is the most prevalent form of stairlifts on the market. The rail of a straight rail stairlift is linked to the stair treads by legs that are spaced about a foot apart.

Stairlifts with Curved Rails

A widespread myth is that a stairlift must be constructed in a straight line. However, the rail of a curved rail stairlift is mapped to the staircase’s specific curvature; as a result, the planning and installation procedure can be a little more expensive because it requires unique customization and a potentially longer rail.

Stairlifts for the outdoors

Any of the previous stairlift kinds can be used as an outdoor stairlift. They can be fitted to accommodate wheelchairs, curving staircases, or even just to go up a straight staircase. On the other hand, outdoor stairlifts necessitate weather-proofing procedures to protect the power supply (as well as the chair surface or platform) from the elements.

Stairlifts with platforms for wheelchairs 

Wheelchair or platform stairlifts take the typical seat-style stairlift and add enough room for a wheelchair to be taken up steps, albeit they are not the most frequent in residential homes due to the amount of space they demand. Because these stair lifts require more power than standard curved or straight rail stairlifts, they are most commonly found in business buildings, hospitals, assisted living facilities, and nursing homes.

What to know about installation and safety?

All stairlifts include a rail system on which your chair will glide as you press the directional button to move up or down the stairs. However, many residents are concerned that installing the rail may necessitate structural improvements to their properties.

 Fortunately, no structural work is required. Instead, the railing will be screwed into the stair treads by the installer. So you won’t have to open any walls or add reinforcement if you install through the step. Many people are concerned about their home’s value depreciating once a stairlift is installed. The screws from removing a stairlift will leave holes in the steps, and if there is a carpet, it will be damaged. 

So, before you place your house on the market, think about how much it will cost to fix it. With an elderly population, however, keeping the stairlift in place may improve the number of purchasers interested in a home.

Another major concern that comes to mind while considering stairlifts is safety. Safety is a primary priority when it comes to stairlifts for the elderly. You can locate a seat belt on each stairlift on the market, so you’ll never have to worry about slipping out of the chair while suspended on your stairs. You’ll also find a step that you may use to help you climb into your seat and provide more stability when you’re sitting.

What is the Stairlift buying process?

Assessment

The first step in buying a stairlift is to have an expert evaluate your home to see if one can be installed. A professional can also advise you on which type of stairlift is appropriate for your needs. Thankfully, many stairlift sellers offer a free in-home consultation, which can also be used to acquire answers to any special issues.

Design

Because no two staircases are identical, stairlifts are frequently constructed to order based on your home’s exact needs. Some stairlift dealers and manufacturers even use augmented reality images to show you how the stairlift will fit into your space.

Installation

The final phase is installation after the stairlift has been chosen and designed to fit the space. It’s natural to believe that you or a handy family member can install a stairlift, but this is a job best left to professionals who have a thorough grasp of the product at the factory level.