Installing a stairlift in your home can improve accessibility and independence in your home for anyone who might struggle with mobility. They make it safer and easier to move between floors of your home if you have a hard time navigating the stairs. While most people recognize the mobility benefits of this installation, it’s natural to still have some concerns about it. Keep reading to learn more about stairlifts, and have some of your common concerns on the topic addressed.
Will a Stairlift Fit on My Staircase?
One of the first worries people have is whether or not their stars can accommodate a stairlift. This is particularly concerning for those who have a staircase that’s very narrow or an unusual shape. The good news is, stairlifts are designed to fit a variety of stair configurations, including straight, narrow, curved, and steep stairs. If your staircase is particularly complex, custom stairlifts can be design specifically to fit your stairs.
How Much Space Will It Take?
Another common concern is that the stairlift will take up too much space on the staircase, potentially making the stairs difficult to access for anyone still using the stairs themselves. Modern stairlift designs are more compact than older models, and can even have foldable seats, footrests, and armrests, so they can be folded away when not in use. This leaves plenty of space for others to use the stairs safely.
Is Installation Disruptive to My Life?
You might also worry that the installation process will be disruptive to your family’s daily life. Most people don’t want to have their routines interrupted for days on end for an extensive renovation. Thankfully, stairlift installation is actually quite simple. Most can be completed in just a few hours and don’t require major changes to your home. The stairlift is mounted directly onto the staircase, not the wall, minimizing the impact on your home’s structure. If you need a customized stairlift, installation takes longer, but this is largely because the rails need to be manufactured specifically for your staircase; so, most of the work will still occur outside your home, and cause minimal disruption to your daily life.
Can I Remove It?
Finally, many people wonder if a stairlift can be removed in the future if they should decide they no longer need it—like if they’re moving and selling their home. Stairlifts can actually be removed quite easily when no longer required. Because the rail is mounted on the stairs and not the wall, there is virtually no visual damage after the stairlift’s removal.
If you have further concerns about selecting or installing stairlifts for sale, speak to an installer to get all your questions answered.
