Guide to the Different Types of Stair Lifts

If you're looking to install a stair lift in your home, you might be surprised to learn that there are actually several different types of stair lifts. While you'll probably find that the most common type of stair lift is what you need, you should do a bit of research before you purchase one just in case you need a special type.

Straight rail stair lifts are the most common. If you have a simple, straight set of stairs, this is the type of life you need. Straight rail stair lifts are bolted to the wall or to the stairs themselves and can be installed without the help of a professional.

Curved rail stair lifts, on the other hand, are rarely seen because few people have curved stairs. However, if you do need a stair lift for a curved set of stairs, be ready to pay for it. This type of stair lift is much more expensive than the straight stair lift because it often has to be custom made to fit the curve. This involves the manufacturer coming to your home to take measurements first. They will then design a stair lift track specifically for your stairs. Generally, curved rail stair lifts are installed by professionals; and the installation takes longer.

Wheelchair platform stair lifts are heavy duty versions of the standard stair lift. The difference here is that instead of a chair, the stair lift has a platform for a wheelchair. You simply position your wheelchair on the lift, lock it in place so that it doesn't roll off, and ride up the lift. Wheelchair platform stair lifts often have fold-out ramps on the platform to make it easier to get your wheelchair on and off.

Wheelchair platforms obviously require much more space than standard stair lifts, and for this reason, they are not often installed in private homes because the staircases aren't large enough for them. The track for a wheelchair platform is also much more complex since the platform is larger and weighs more. If you can't fit a wheelchair platform in your home, there are some stair lifts that feature removable chairs. These chairs can be used as an indoor wheelchair when removed from the stair lift track.

Outdoor stair lifts are also often identical to straight rail stair lifts and wheelchair platform lifts. The only difference is that the chair, if there is one, is designed to withstand the elements. The wiring is often more insulated or protected from the weather, too.

Finally, a goods stair lift is designed to carry goods upstairs instead of passengers. Instead of a seat, goods stair lifts usually have a set of trays or bins for easily transporting objects upstairs. These types of stair lifts are usually only seen in industrial or commercial businesses. Of course, a standard straight rail stair lift can be used to transport goods upstairs as well provided the goods fit on the chair. In fact, some smaller businesses purchase standard stair rail lifts and use them primarily to transport goods.