When you have decided that you want to add a stairlift to your home, either for yourself or someone in your household, it can be a bit confusing to figure out exactly what type of unit you’ll need. There are really two main kinds of stairlifts – those that are designed to go up and down straight stairs, and those designed for a curved staircase. You’ll already know which of these two types you need based on your home, but there are other factors that may not be so obvious that go into the specs of a stairlift, and which you’ll need to know about while choosing the stairlift that is right for you and your property.
Here are some things that differ between different stairlift specifications, which you should consider while you check the stairlift prices at various providers.
Power-assisted features
A standard stairlift is just designed to take its passenger up and down the stairs, but for people who struggle with getting in and out of the stairlift due to mobility problems, there are other power-assisted features that can make it easier to use. This can be something to look into if you can’t comfortably use a normal stairlift – after all, the point of it is to make going up and down as easy as possible, so you don’t want to invest in a lift that you still find a strain to use.
Width
Stairlifts can be used on even narrow staircases if the specifications are right, and there are hardly any stair types that there can’t be stairlifts for. If you have an unusual property where the stairs are very narrow or you have something like a spiral staircase, you may find that you need a more customised design, but you should still be able to find the stairlift you need. If you have a broad staircase, however, you may choose between different widths, for example, to add more comfort, or to save space so that other people can use the stairs while the stairlift is in use.
Outdoor stairlifts
We mainly think of stairlifts as something used inside the home, but if you have an outdoor staircase to get to parts of your home, you will also be able to find weatherproof designs made for this purpose. Outdoor stairlifts are subject to different standards and specs, so make sure you are looking at products made for outdoor use if this is what you need.
Your stairs
As well as choosing a stairlift, you may also need to modify the stairs area itself. This is because there may be obstructions or handrails that will need to be removed before the stairlift can be installed. Consider whether a stairlift can be easily installed in your home, or whether you’ll need to have any additional work done first, while you are planning.
As you can see, all stairlifts are not the same, and while this means you’ll be able to find something suitable for your home, it also means you’ll need to do a little research as you decide on a unit.
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