Stairlift Installation Requirements
Knowing the top stairlift installation requirements beforehand will ensure your new device fits perfectly in your home. Whether or not you will be able to install a stairlift (a.k.a. chair lift) depends on your staircase's width, layout, and other factors. A reputable stairlift installation company will consider your home's design and find solutions to accommodate your needs.
A new stairlift will provide you or a loved one with the freedom to access all the levels of your multistory home. Our experts explain the key measurements and dimensions you need to know for a successful installation.
What Is the Minimum Stair Width for a Stairlift?
Staircases need a minimum width of at least 29 to 36 inches (73 to 91.44 centimeters) to ensure a safe and comfortable ride for stairlift users. This is an average calculation; straight stairlifts may require less room for installation, while curved lifts could need more.
You will also need to consider the width of each stairlift model so that when the seat, armrests, and footrest are in use, there is sufficient space for the rider to navigate the stairs comfortably. A folding seat or a perch stairlift is an alternative for narrower stairwells.
Rail dimensions are another key consideration. These rails are mounted to the stair treads, not the wall, and generally take up less than 6 inches or 15 centimeters of space from the edge of the stairs. This keeps the stairs accessible for everyone.
Contacting a professional stairlift installation company will ensure that the stairlift is adapted to your needs, taking into account the height and weight of the individual riding the stairlift, as well as the design of your stairway.
Having a basic understanding of how to install a stairlift will also help you and your family prepare for this all-important step. Research indicates that the acceptance of a stairlift in the home is greatest when all actors (users, friends, extended family) are involved in the decision-making process.
Stairlift Dimensions and Space Requirements
A basic familiarity with stairlift dimensions and space requirements will help you ask the right questions when choosing a stairlift for your home.
1. Staircase Type: Straight vs. Curved
Check whether you have a straight or curved staircase, as the shape influences the type of stairlift you should choose.
A straight staircase has no bends or curves and typically needs a minimum of 29 to 36 inches of width for a single user to ride up and down the stairs safely. A straight stairlift is generally easier to install—often finished in just a few hours when performed by experienced technicians.
A curved staircase with bends, curves, and turns requires a custom fit. The space requirements for safe use remain close to those of straight stairlifts. Stairlift installation on curved or multi-landing stairs requires more planning than installation on straight stairs.
2. Indoor vs. Outdoor
Outdoor stairlifts generally require a minimum staircase width of 26 inches or 66 centimeters. They are installed on straight stairways for a single user. You should also consider factors such as exposure to weather. Water-resistant seat, rail, and power source options (in case of a power outage) are key features to look for.
3. Rail Dimensions
Standard stairlifts with straight rails will stick out around six inches from the wall. This is measured from the wall to the outermost edge of the rail.
Curved stairlift rail dimensions vary, but generally also protrude around six inches from the wall. In some cases, custom railing can hug the walls more tightly than standard rails.
4. Seat and Footrest Clearance
The seat and footrest clearance of a stairlift will depend on the model and staircase width. Folding features also influence how much space a stairlift takes up when idle.
Straight stairlifts, when folded: 11 to 14.5 inches (28 to 36.8 centimeters)
Straight stairlifts, unfolded, and in use: up to 25.9 inches (65.8 centimeters)
Curved stairlifts, when folded: 14 to 16 inches (35.5 to 40.6 centimeters)
Curved stairlifts, unfolded, and in use: up to 26.7 inches (67.8 centimeters)
Curved stairlifts' seat and footrest clearance are also affected by the configuration of the seat and will depend on the rail start position. For example, custom rails impact how much room is available for the seat and footrest. Additionally, if the chair lift has a swivel seat or is larger to accommodate different individual weights, this will also affect the clearance of the footrest and seat.
5. Landing, Parking Space, and Ceilings
You will need extra room (a landing width of 36 inches or 91.4 centimeters) for an individual to mount and dismount the stairlift safely. These dimensions also affect how easily you can park your chair lift and fold it away. Head clearance should be around 6 feet, 8 inches, or 203 centimeters for a comfortable and safe ride.
6. Obstacles to Watch Out For
Look out for the following obstacles that could slow down or prevent a safe stairlift installation:
Radiators or tight corners at the top or the bottom of the landing areas.
Stairlifts need to be plugged in. Make sure you have a nearby standard outlet for charging your stairlift.
Staircases that are extremely narrow (less than 26 inches in width) are likely not suitable for mounting a stairlift.
Your home’s stairs should be in good shape. Stairs made out of wood or solid materials are best for supporting the weight of the stairlift rails. Floating stairs may not be suitable for mounting, but always check with your local stairlift installation professionals.
Expert stairlift services accommodate even the most oddly shaped staircases. However, it's wise to first check out your staircase yourself and note down anything unusual you see that could affect a stairlift installation.
Ensure a Good Fit
Stairlifts fit in most homes, typically requiring around 29 to 36 inches of stair width. However, all staircases are unique, and exact dimensions will vary. Before installing a stairlift, identify if you have a straight or curved staircase. Outdoor stairlifts should have dimensions and design features that protect the chair lift and the person riding it.
Whether you are researching for yourself or a loved one, get everyone involved in the decision-making process. Contact an expert stairlift installation company to guide you through the steps. Understanding space requirements as a team will make stairlift installation smoother and more enjoyable.