Stairs are a nightmare, especially if you’re unable to take those high steps due to aging or a disability. Nowadays, though, that isn’t a huge problem anymore, thanks to the invention of stairlifts.
Do you also have a friend in need of a stairlift or an elderly family member complaining about creaky knees? Perhaps it’s time to consider installing one for your home for the sake of their safety and comfort. But there’s one thing to consider before deciding — how much this contraption costs you in the long-run.
The Stairlift You Need
The first thing you need to consider is what type you need to utilise in your home. There are straight and curved stairlifts depending on what type your stairs are, and it’s relatively easy to determine. Curved ones will cost you more than straight ones, and this is because of the very nature of curved staircases. There’s also a higher risk of falling when taking a turn. If the device is not well-made, the passenger will have a big chance to fall halfway.
Prices do vary depending on the type of stair lift or if there are any other customised requirements.
Added fees
Other factors can affect the price, especially installation of your stair lift. One of those is the width of your staircase, as it can affect how big and small the chair is, thus, will affect the overall quality and feel of the passenger during its use. There is also the lift speed, which can be customised depending on the passenger’s preference, but for curved ones, speed can be restricted to a slower pace.
Finally, there are other things to consider, like the landing and how safe it will be, the space designated for the stairlift and what fixtures need to be uninstalled or removed, and the appropriate height for the ceiling (to ensure heads don’t bump anywhere as they ascend).
These will determine other added fees on top of your given stairlift. We encourage you to get a quote and an assessment before going into partnership with any companies. This will avoid any future surprises and unexpected fees.
Things To Consider Before Buying
- Passenger Comfort
Unless you’ll be using this type of lift for yourself, the passenger will decide which chair they find comfort in and what speed they think is safe. This is an essential thing to think about before purchasing, as re-installation can be expensive.
- Added features
Does it need more added features, such as chair swivel, adjustable height, etc.? These features can be unnecessary but very handy in specific scenarios inside the house.
- Back And Hip Condition
As the passenger will be using this quite often, it’s essential to install a chair that caters to their lower back and hip in medical conditions. Regular stairlift chairs don’t have this, so it ultimately needs to be customised.