4 Types of Stairlifts for Multistory Homes
Stairlifts or chair lifts are categorized by rail shape, materials, and seat mechanisms. There are two main types of stairlifts by rail shape for indoor use in multistory homes: straight and curved. There are also outdoor stairlifts that accommodate stairwells located outside of the house. Specialized seat designs, such as perched lifts, keep the user in a semi-standing position to prevent the need to sit and stand fully each time.
If you or a loved one has limited mobility, reclaiming independence on the stairs is the first step (pun intended!) toward autonomy and freedom. Stairlift installation also helps to prevent falls due to tripping or loss of balance. Understanding the main types of stairlifts and their features will help you make an informed decision.
1. Straight Stairlifts
Straight stairlifts are designed for straight stairwells. They can also be used for 90-degree turns or “switch back”-type stairwells with a straight shot to the landing, and then the person does a transfer to a second stairlift that travels up to the top of the stairs.
The chair of a straight stairlift is typically very compact and often folds up. This keeps the stairs accessible for others in the home.
If you need custom-length rails to navigate simple up-and-down travel in your house, a straight stairlift is an excellent choice. Purchasing a straight stairlift from a reputable stairlift installation company will ensure a safe and comfortable ride every time.
Benefits of straight stairlifts:
Straight stairlifts are usually installed in just a few hours.
They are generally less costly than curved stairlifts due to their simple design; however, the total price will vary depending on the length of the stairs.
Top stairlift brands, including Harmar and Merits, offer a variety of straight stairlift models.
It’s often possible to buy or rent a straight stairlift the same day, as no customization is needed.
Straight stairlifts are easier to resell than curved stairlifts.
2. Curved Stairlifts
Curved stairlifts are built for stairs that have curves, sharp turns, bends, or multiple intermediate landings. They require custom rails. A curved stairlift installation can even accommodate a spiral staircase if needed to help an elderly person go up and down the stairs safely.
Benefits of a curved stairlift:
Curved stairlifts accommodate complex staircase shapes.
They avoid the "transfer" of two stairlifts for stairwells that have landings.
These stairlifts also come in top brands. For example, we offer the Pilot Navigator from Merits, which comes 100% built to order with cutting-edge 3D tube-bending technology paired with human skill. Installation can be done on either the right or left side of the stairs.
3. Outdoor Stairlifts
Outdoor stairlifts are ideal for homes that have stairs outside of the house. They are made with weather-resistant materials to protect the mechanism. Some features that make this possible are waterproof covers, anti-rust rails, and UV protection.
Sometimes people confuse outdoor stairlifts with platform lifts. A vertical platform lift (a.k.a. porch lift or deck lift) is an elevating device that allows users to travel from ground level to an elevated entrance while still seated on their mobility device. An outdoor stairlift is more suitable for individuals who are able to transfer into a stairlift seat by themselves.
Benefits of an outdoor stairlift:
Outdoor stairlifts allow individuals with mobility challenges to access and enjoy outdoor spaces.
These devices are made from very durable materials.
4. Perch Stairlifts
Perch stairlifts are for individuals with mobility challenges who need to be in a semi-standing position while going up and down the stairs. They aren’t as common as the other three types (and we don’t generally recommend them), but are sometimes chosen by individuals with hip, knee, or spine mobility limitations who want to minimize joint strain. They are also an option for very narrow staircases, as they don’t take up much horizontal space.
Benefits of a perch stairlift include:
Perch stairlifts are a perfect solution for people who are unable to use a traditional chair lift to go up and down the stairs because of mobility issues that interfere with their ability to sit down comfortably.
Perch stairlifts fit very narrow staircases that don’t meet standard stairlift installation requirements.
Key Features to Consider
Look for the following safety and comfort features when purchasing or renting a stairlift:
Safety
Battery-powered backup operation: Battery backup ensures the stairlift keeps moving and brings the rider to his or her destination safely if a power outage occurs. This is a must for emergency accessibility.
Obstruction detection and emergency stop button: Ensure your chair lift has obstruction detection and an emergency stop button to prevent injury to children and pets that might be sitting, lying down, or playing on the stairs.
Seat belt: A seat belt is an essential safety feature on a stairlift that prevents slips and falls during use.
Weight requirements: Choose a stairlift model that is made to handle the intended user's weight. Exceeding the model’s weight limit will make the chair unsafe to ride.
Comfort and Fit
Adjustability: Look for adjustable seat height, armrests, or folding footrests for a more comfortable ride.
Swivel seat: Opt for swivel seats that will make it easier for the user to dismount at the top landing.
Style matching: Choose a style that complements your home. Safety should always be top priority, but having a nice-looking chair that matches your home’s interior design is also a plus!
Recommended Stairlifts for Specific Circumstances
Everyone will have different needs when it comes to choosing a stairlift. The following handy checklist will help you identify the most suitable type quickly.
Straight Stairs Only?
Go with a straight stairlift for fast installation and lower costs.
Money-saving tip: Purchasing two straight stairlifts for one stairwell with turns or landings usually costs less than installing a single curved stairlift for a staircase with a similar layout.
Spiral, Curved, or Uniquely Shaped Stairs?
Choose a curved stairlift with a custom rail for oddly-shaped or unique stairwells.
Need Outdoor Access?
Install a weatherproof outdoor chair lift to give you or a loved one access to indoor and outdoor spaces. Weather-resistant materials on these lifts provide year-round safety along with greater freedom and autonomy for people with mobility issues.
Trouble Sitting or Bending Joints?
Perch stairlifts are an alternative for people who are unable to bend comfortably at the hips, such as those with bent spine syndrome (BSS), a medical condition that is most commonly seen in elderly people with Parkinson’s disease, or for others who have trouble getting into a sitting position.
Tight on Space?
Choose a compact model with a folding chair.
Looking for Both Style and Function?
Ask about color or upholstery customization for your chosen stairlift model.
Choosing the Right Stairlift
The right type of stairlift will improve accessibility for yourself and others in your multistory home. You’ll need a rail that’s either straight or curved. Then identify any additional requirements, such as weather-proof construction or a perch seat.
Having a basic understanding of the various types of stairlifts will ensure a safe, smooth, and relaxing ride for a person with mobility issues. Ask for guidance from a stairlift installation company to help you choose the right model and ensure independence, autonomy, and secure access to all levels of the home.