What types of stairlift are available?
There are broadly two kinds of stairlift on the UK market – straight stairlifts and curved stairlifts. Straight stairlifts are ideal for your relative’s home if the staircase has no bends, twists, curves or awkward landings. They’re also the most cost-effective stairlift option, starting from around £1,500.
In cases where stairs have bends, corners or half-landings, a curved stairlift will be required. Curved stairlifts pose a few problems, not least financial, in that they must be custom-built for each staircase. At this point, it’s a great idea to check that your relative truly wants a stairlift, as a curved stair-lift can’t go back to the factory. They’ll also be a bit less-common the reconditioned front.
Perch-type lifts are also available where users have trouble bending at the knees, or for narrow staircases. The user rests against a cushioned ledge, bending very lightly at the knees. Perch stairlifts tend to come with a safety arm for confidence and security, special harnesses for extra safety, large footrest plates and an adjustable seating position. Finally, outdoor stairlifts are perfect for garden steps, patios and decks or garage and basement steps. Outdoor stair lifts are made with special materials that withstand the elements.
Related Posts
- What types of stairlift are available today?
- A guide to the main stairlift manufacturers
- How to choose the right stairlift
- Stairlifts and tricky stairways
- Minivator – stairlift manufacturer
- A wide choice of curved stairlifts from UK Stairlifts
- Do I buy a straight or curved stairlift?
- The benefits of a stairlift