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Curved Stairlifts

What They Are, When You Need One, and Typical Costs

Curved stairlifts are designed for staircases that are not straight. They are custom-made to follow bends, corners, or intermediate landings, which makes them more complex and more expensive than straight stairlifts.

This guide explains what curved stairlifts are, when they are required, how they work, and what to expect in terms of cost and installation in the UK.

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Modern and well-lit home interior showing a staircase equipped with a stairlift featuring a burgundy seat, cream-colored base, and rail extending to the top landing. The hallway has hardwood flooring, white walls with molding, framed artwork, and contemporary pendant lighting.

According to Stairlift Guru

According to Stairlift Guru’s analysis of UK stairlift installations, many people are surprised to learn they need a curved stairlift even for small turns or half landings. Staircase shape, not the severity of the curve, determines the type required.

When Is a Curved Stairlift Required?

You will usually need a curved stairlift if your staircase has:

  • One or more bends or corners
  • A half landing or intermediate landing
  • A spiral or irregular shape
  • Changes in width or direction

Even a single turn normally rules out a straight stairlift.

If you are unsure, a home survey confirms this quickly.

How Curved Stairlifts Work

Curved stairlifts operate in the same way as straight stairlifts, but the rail is different.

Key differences include:

  • The rail is custom-measured and manufactured
  • The stairlift follows the exact path of the stairs
  • Installation takes longer than a straight stairlift

The stairlift itself runs on batteries and continues to work during power cuts.

Curved Stairlift Costs in the UK

Curved stairlifts are more expensive because each rail is bespoke.

Typical UK prices are:

  • Curved stairlift: £4,000 to £6,000+

Costs increase with:

  • Longer staircases
  • Multiple landings
  • Complex or spiral layouts
  • Additional features or upgrades

For a detailed breakdown, see:
https://stairliftguru.co.uk/stairlift-prices/curved-stairlift-costs/

Why Curved Stairlifts Cost More

The higher cost is mainly due to:

  • Custom rail manufacturing
  • Longer design and production time
  • More complex installation
  • Limited reusability

Unlike straight stairlifts, curved rails cannot usually be reused in another home.

New vs Reconditioned Curved Stairlifts

New curved stairlifts

  • Made to measure
  • Full manufacturer warranty
  • Most reliable long-term option

Reconditioned curved stairlifts

  • Rarely available
  • Only possible if a rail happens to match your staircase
  • Usually not a realistic option

This is why most curved stairlifts are purchased new.

Related reading:
https://stairliftguru.co.uk/stairlift-advice/new-vs-used-stairlifts/

Installation Time and Disruption

Curved stairlift installation typically:

  • Takes most of a day
  • Requires no major building work
  • Fixes directly to the stair treads

The stairs usually remain usable during installation, though access may be limited for short periods.

Can You Reduce the Cost of a Curved Stairlift?

Some cost reductions may be possible:

  • Disabled Facilities Grants (subject to eligibility)
  • VAT relief for disabled users
  • Choosing essential features only

Grants and funding options are explained here:
https://stairliftguru.co.uk/stairlift-grants/

Curved Stairlifts vs Other Options

For some homes, alternatives may be considered, such as:

  • Living on one level
  • Home lifts
  • Moving to a more suitable property

Cost comparisons are covered here:

Common Misunderstandings About Curved Stairlifts

These come up frequently:

  • “A small bend still counts as straight” – it does not
  • “Curved rails can be reused” – usually not
  • “Rental is widely available” – it rarely is
  • “Prices are similar to straight stairlifts” – they are not

Clear expectations help avoid disappointment.

Key Takeaways

  • Curved stairlifts are required for any non-straight staircase
  • Rails are custom-made for each home
  • Costs are higher than those of straight stairlifts
  • Reconditioned options are rare
  • Surveys confirm suitability and pricing

Where to Go Next

Most people with curved staircases go on to:

  • Review detailed curved stairlift prices
  • Check grant eligibility
  • Request a stairlift quote
  • Compare stairlift companies

Understanding the curved stairlift first makes those steps clearer.

Curved Stairlift Frequently Asked Questions

Can a straight stairlift be adapted for curved stairs?

No. Curved staircases require a curved stairlift with a custom rail.

How long does it take to get a curved stairlift?

Manufacturing usually takes several weeks after the survey.

Are curved stairlifts safe?

Yes. When correctly installed, they meet the same safety standards as straight stairlifts.

Do curved stairlifts work during power cuts?

Yes. They run on rechargeable batteries.