Curved vs. Straight Stairlifts
Installing a stairlift in your home can significantly increase the quality of life of occupants who have mobility issues or need assistance when recovering from an injury or illness. Thankfully, there are a wide variety of cost-effective options available for those who are looking to add a stairlift to their existing home.
Benefits of a Curved Stairlift
Custom Fit
When you install a stairlift in a spiral staircase or install a curved stairlift on a staircase that has multiple landings, you need a custom fit. Curved stairlifts are measured precisely to take up the least space possible while providing a safe and effective means of transport for the user.
Versatility
Curved stairlifts can be installed in almost any staircase, anywhere. No matter the number of twists and turns, a stairlift can be made to suit your needs.
Stylish Design
Phil from stairlift installers Anglian Lifts said” Curved stairlifts can be very elegant and can add to the décor of the room as opposed to taking away from it. Everything from the swivel seat to the curved rail itself is designed to blend in with the look and feel of the room.”
Space-Efficient
Curved stairlifts are custom-measured and made to take up the least possible space. The seats and armrests fold and the rails are kept as close as possible to the wall to make the staircase accessible for those not on the stairlift.
Benefits of a Straight Stairlift
Less Initial Cost
Straight stairlifts are installed in either wide or narrow staircases and are made of one long rail travelling in a straight line. These rails are easier to fabricate and don’t require custom pieces to be made. Due to these factors, the initial cost of a straight stairlift is less than that of a curved stairlift.
Faster Installation Time
Without the need for custom pieces and fabrication, installation time for a straight stairlift is often less than that of a curved stairlift.
Space Efficient
Straight stairlifts are also designed to be extremely space-efficient. Because they do not need to wrap around corners or down a spiral staircase, they can be installedclose to the wall and the seats are designed to compact while still being comfortable and safe.
How to Choose a Stairlift That is Right for You
Knowing what type of stairlift you need will have a lot to do with what type of stairs you have in your home and the needs of the user.
- Straight staircases with no landings will typically need a straight stairlift to accommodate the rider properly.
- Spiral staircases will need a curved stairlift due to the design of the stairs.
- A straight staircase with multiple landings and 90-degree turns will also likely need a curved stairlift to get the rider from top to bottom without having to get up multiple times.
Both straight and curved stairlifts add tremendous value to those that use them and choosing the right design is critical to maximizing the potential that they offer. Always consult a professional when deciding which stairlift is the right one for you.
