Stairlift Buying Help Guide - 2024 update

What Is The Best Stairlift To Buy?

According to estimation, an average individual uses stairs at least 250,000 times. Going up and down the stairs is typically no problem for a younger individual. But with ageing and declining health, mobility can become more problematic.

For example, moving from one place to another can become harder for people who have crossed 60. This may also apply to people who have had an accident and can no longer move freely. Similarly, those who have some physical challenges and are handicapped need a UK Stairlift to make their lives easier.

Money Well Spent

Stairlifts are the best solution and the most appropriate alternative.

If you invest money to buy a lift, your life will be more autonomous and secure as the chances of having a fall are reduced.

Sense Of Security To Both The Affected Person And Family

As family members can’t always be around a person who needs help to move from one floor of the house to another, a stairlift is a support that can give you and your loved one peace of mind while you are away from home.

The biggest motivation for buying a stairlift is that it makes the life of disabled people secure too.

Safety is the focal point of companies that make stairlifts.

Stairlift companies ensure their customers will not become victims of another injury on their stairs and can run their lives independently without requiring constant assistance. 

Research And Consult With Occupational Therapists

If you have decided that a stairlift is what you need, you should do some research online.

Even better, go seeking an Occupational Therapist’s opinion about it.

Or, if you have a friend or close relative already using a stairlift, talk to them about their experience and ask for their opinions and recommendations.

Test Before You Purchase A Stairlift

As far as our opinion is concerned, we recommend that before buying a stairlift, you try it for free.

There are two ways you can get a free stairlift. Either ask a friend or a relative already using a stairlift or go to a shop available to sell. Just ask them if you would like to try it there.

If you feel comfortable with a free test, you should only consider purchasing a stairlift. Investing your money wisely is always good, especially in expensive things.

Buy Your Stairlift From A Quality Stairlift Company

The best practice is to always look at purchasing from a local stairlift company so that you can approach them easily whenever you face a problem, i.e. warranty issues, repair or maintenance issues. 

Therefore, pay a visit to a physical shop or get a quote online and do a site survey to know a fixed minimum price you will have to pay to own one. When you get a quote, you may feel more comfortable if accompanied by a friend or a close family member. 

Purchase From a Reputable Stairlift Company

Keep in mind that all reputable companies don’t force you to buy just because you have asked for a quote because they believe you are not obligated to purchase from them as a potential customer.

Suppose you feel the stairlift-company representative is forcing you to buy from them or giving a time-bounded offer while getting a quote. For example, if you purchased today “you will get a 30% discount”, know that they aren’t a good company and only want your money. You have to decline their request and ask for some more time politely. 

How Do You Know If The Stairlift Company Is Genuine?

They will never force you to buy or offer you low rates. Reputable companies always come up with fixed rates. They would be happy to make you feel comfortable about the quality of the Stairlift and warranty. That representative will give you the best option for measuring your stairs.

After doing all this (measuring the stair’s length and telling you a fixed price), they will hand over a written quote and ask your permission to leave. 

Their company should also emphasise giving the customer time to decide and reach out to the company when they’re ready. Customer service is key to finding the best Stairlift to buy, as they will look after you in the long run. Use review mobility to do your research on stairlift companies.

Can You Get Government Sponsored Funding For Buying A Stairlift?

Are you or someone you know disabled? If so, you can apply for a disabled facilities grant awarded by a local council under part- I of Housing Grants. Under this provision, your local board is bound to help disabled people procure equipment to help them live near-to-normal lives. Hence, you can buy a stairlift or the floor one using the amount approved by the council.

There is just one downside to depending on Council funding. This is: because the verification and approval process takes a lot of time. Therefore, if you are in urgent need, you will have to look for instant ways to purchase a stairlift.

Please note that this is just our opinion. For more information and explanation about the funding procedure, contact either your OT or your local council officials.

Types Of Stairlifts: Straight, Curved, Reconditioned Stairlift And Hinged Tracks

Straight Stairlift

A Straight Stairlift is the least expensive because it can easily be installed and is less complicated to build. It is the perfect solution for a seat or a stand on the platform. It also allows for establishing it on either side of your house’s stairs. You will have a seat belt to keep you safe and sit comfortably in your seat. A straight stairlift is cheaper than a curved stairlift as it is not custom-made. So a new stairlift can be a great price.

Curved Stairlift

Curved Stairlifts are a more costly way of moving through the house. The duration of each customer’s measures is tailored to keep this in mind. The stairlift company would have to pay additional expenses.

A curved stairlift is for curved staircases. A curved staircase can cost a lot more as it has to be bespoke-made.

Curved stairlifts can also be installed on either side of the stairs. When purchasing a curved stairlift, the company will likely ask you to deposit a significant amount in advance. So it will be wise to have a more substantial portion of the total cost readily available before you decide to buy one.

Hinged Tracks

If you live in a small house, we recommend choosing a Hinged Track Stairlift. This is because it easily folds back to create room. Hinged Tracks are made by keeping in mind that some houses have a small space at the top or bottom of their stairs. Both manual and powered types of Hinged Tracks are readily available in the market.

Reconditioned Stairlift

Reconditioned stairlifts are second-hand ones that someone has already used they no longer need and have sold. These can be straight stairlifts, standing Stairlifts, or seated stairlifts. You can get any. It is a far more cost-effective option for your home, and many stairlift companies offer this. Reconditioned stairlifts are a significant cost-effective option.

Common Stairlift Features

Many stairlift manufacturers offer this feature as a standard for their model or as an addition or upgrade option. Some models include powered options, which automatically fold the seat if raised. Swivelling seats let users move their seats away from stairways or open doors. The remote controls enable automatic calls up and descent of stairs. 

The addition of comfortable seating using wide padding adjusts seating height and shoulder bar spacing to facilitate safer manoeuvring. Using a stairlift safely is crucial, and you should always use the safety features. Be sure to make sure you use the seat belt. The seat belt will keep you in the stairlift seat while you move. Some stairlifts also come with safety sensors.

Safety sensors ensure the Stairlift does not clash with anything or anyone on the stairs. The maximum weight capacity of a stairlift ranges. It all depends on the stairlift models. For example, a heavy-duty stairlift’s maximum weight capacity is much more than a standard stairlift’s maximum weight capacity.

Important Areas & Considerations When Buying A Stairlift

Investing in one thing is a good choice when it comes to lifts. When purchasing a stairlift, there are considerations. A staircase provides you with a wide range of health and physical benefits that enable you to return home. But it can be challenging to see where to begin by selecting yours with too many options. Before settling on a make or model, you must make a few crucial decisions when buying a stairlift.

It is vital to ensure that you are trained as soon as possible with your home’s new permanent feature. It can be a great start to know when the time is correct to purchase a stairlift and how to find a stairlift if you’re new to stairlifts or have had some experience in the past at Companion Stairlifts.

Considerations To Have In Mind When Buying A Stairlift

Will I Need To Get Special Features For A Stairlift In My Home To Fit Me?

If you ask questions like, ‘Is there a weight cap on the stairs?’ Stairlifts with special features could be accessible. If you want individual applications that suit your lifestyle or preferences, speak to the stairlift company and find out more. If the pressure is between the hips or legs, you can use chairs or a more prominent seat from a heavy-duty stairlift or stand and wait.

Do I Need To Make Any Modifications For My Home To Accommodate A Stairlift?

Rooms that need re-carpeting are easier to locate. If the Stairlift is mounted, you want it to be a permanent fixture. You must discuss any stepping requirements in advance. This eliminates the need for stairlift maintenance or repairs farther down the road. They are usually minor changes intended to hold the stairs in position. That moves quickly and efficiently without any impediments.

What Kind of Stairlift Rail Should I Get To Fit My Stairs And House?

After completing your nomination, professional experts will visit you at your convenience. After carefully inspecting the stairs, they will advise you about the ideal rail system choices tailored to your house. The rail design is curved or straight, depending on the form of the stairway. A hinged track is also needed. You can rely on some passages, walls, or other barriers at the bottom of your Stairlift.

Which Sort Of Stairlift Do I Need To Fit My Needs And Home?

You should first understand that straight stairlifts or curved Stairlifts are needed. However, you can also use the seat configuration and carriage type throughout your home quest. They also cover any extra protection features you can need.

A home appraisal provides an excellent opportunity to quiz the evaluator on the whole process, from analysis to execution. More can be learnt here and address the question, ‘What kind of stairlift do I require?’

How Much Does A Stairlift Cost To Buy And Fit?

To give you a clearer idea of how much you’ll pay, check out the blog on how much does a stairlift cost? You don’t necessarily have to pick a new stairlift. If you’re living on a budget, refurbished stairlifts are a fantastic and inexpensive choice. Stairlift leasing is also available as a short-term option.

Budget-friendly and quick, ask us about this at any time. Or look at our guide to see if you can rent a stairlift? To help you weigh some essential factors when purchasing a stairlift. At Companion Stairlifts, they are happy to talk to you about your purchase options and our financing options. These are all the primary considerations when buying a stairlift and looking for the best Stairlift.

Stairlift Prices – How Much To Buy A Stairlift?

When it comes to buying a stairlift, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. So here are some of the costs of the Stairlift. Stairlift costs can differ depending on the store, and there is no overall price.

Suppose you’re worried about investing in a stairlift; some stairlift companies, such as Acorn Stairlifts, will tour you. The agent will serve with little obligation to guide you through the order and construction phases, determining how many tonnes you need and assisting you in budgeting for them.

A stairlift would add significant value to your home. It largely depends on whether or not a loved one has encountered difficulty getting about the house without assistance. One of the benefits of keeping one in your home is that it will help you reclaim your rights. Even if they can assist you in achieving your goals, there are just too many options when it comes to stairlifts. Determining whether to go for curved or straight stairlifts is a difficult task. Count the stairs first if you don’t know how many there are.

Stairlift prices can differ based on the company, so we can’t determine the overall rate. They also assembled a guide with all the details you need to remember, from the remodelled price of the Stairlift to the cost of the Stairlift, including the fitting.

Be sure to compare prices before installing a stairlift and look at different stairlift models to find the best price and one to fit your needs.

Checklist For Getting A Stairlift

Requirements To Add A Stairlift To Your UK House

There are many variables at stake when adding a stairlift to the staircase.

What Is The Width Of Your Staircase?

Several stairs are wide enough to fit a stairlift. Both kinds of stairlifts may be mounted on a 36-inch-deep standard-depth stairwell. You can cut off any handrail for large-scale work. Narrow stairwells enable a stairlift to function, but they can be difficult for heavy users. A heavy-duty stairlift will be impractical on a short flight of stairs. Ask a local handyperson for a home tour to determine what conditions are necessary for the stairs.

You Will Need Electricity For The Stairlift To Run

Electrical conditions must also be considered. To work correctly, you must charge the Stairlift’s battery daily. The Stairlift must be mounted near a common electrical power source. The cord length ranges from 8 to 20 feet, depending on the height of the Stairlift. The electrician will install an extension cord if there isn’t another outlet near the stairs.

You Need Space In Your Home To Fit It

The location is often significant. The rail is fixed to the stairs. Stairlifts cannot function until the safety rail and chair are on the floor. The amount of available rooms determines the scale of the stairwell.

We’ll make an educated guess of how many stairs will be raised. Light-duty stairlifts would suffice if you were raising an infant 24 to 30 inches off the ground, but if you were moving up and down a set of stairs, a 30-inch stairlift would be preferable.

The total amount of available spaces in the stairwell determines the productivity of a stairlift. If a stairwell or hallway is at an angle, an object may be protected by a retractable rail. And if you don’t have enough space to install a straight rail on straight staircases, a curving rail stairlift will operate. This chair belongs in its current place, not at the bottom of the stairs. We hope this checklist for getting a stairlift helps you decide what you need.

What Is The Average Price For A Stairlift?

For the staircase you have in most homes, you should have between £1,000 and £5,000 saved to buy a brand-new stairlift. Most commonly, the average cost ranges between £3,500 and £4,000. In addition, these charges include installation and a 1-year servicing guarantee.

Prepare Questions For The Stairlift Company Representative

Mental preparation is key if we’re waiting at home. What can help me decide to buy the Stairlift? If anything is unclear, please take it back and give some answers. You’ll always have to check maintenance costs when there are no salespersons at home. It helps you decide whether they are trustworthy and reputable.

What To Consider When Evaluating A Stairlift Company?

When reviewing each product, companies make it essential to evaluate their effect. Make sure the research for the company is focused. Knowledgeable companies will put you on an optimal road map to get the best stairlift for your needs.

What Is The Lifespan Of A Stairlift?

The stairlifts usually last a couple of decades through regular servicing, and repairs will make them last longer.

Breakdown Of Best Stairlift To Buy

Buying a stairlift for the first time can be difficult. You may want to get the help of a loved one to ease the process. We can help you with the advice mentioned above. Do you have any more questions about buying a stairlift? Or finding the best Stairlift to buy? Or do you have any other advice for those wanting to buy? We hope this stairlift buying guide helps.

What To Do Once You Have A Seated Stairlift Picked Out

Like a standing stairlift, once you have picked out the one you want, you should contact multiple stairlift companies to get quotes. You want to look at the features and see if you can use them with limited mobility. For example, it comes with two remote controls so someone can operate it for you if needed. Your stairlift will then be delivered by the company and attached to the stairs, not the wall.