The Stairlift Costs Blog
Curved Stairlift Installation Timeline: From Survey to Fitting
TL;DR: A curved stairlift usually takes 1–4 weeks from survey to installation because the rail is custom-made for your staircase. Most of the time is spent on measuring, CAD design, fabrication, and testing, while the actual home installation typically takes just 3–5...
Installation Challenges for Heavy-Duty Stairlifts (and Solutions)
TL;DR: Heavy-duty stairlifts need more planning than standard models because of their wider seats and reinforced rails, but most installation challenges, like narrow stairs, small landings, obstacles, or weak treads, can be solved. Installers use solutions such as...
Stairlift Rental vs Buying: Which Saves More Money?
TL;DR: Renting a stairlift keeps upfront costs low and is best suited to short-term or uncertain needs (typically under 1–2 years). Buying costs more initially but becomes a better value if you’ll use the stairlift long-term (around 2–3 years or more), offering...
Straight vs Curved Stairlifts: What is the Real Difference in Cost?
Stairlift TypeTypical Price Range (New, installed)Typical “Budget / Base Model” PriceContext / NotesStraight stairlift£1,800–£5,500 From: £1,975Usually, for simple, straight staircases with no curves or landings Curved stairlift£3,800–£8,000+ (average ...
Heavy Duty Stairlifts vs Standard Models: Key Differences
TL;DR: A standard stairlift suits most average-weight users, typically supporting up to around 18–22 stone, and fits most staircases at a lower cost. A heavy-duty stairlift is equipped with a stronger motor, stiffer rails, and a wider, deeper seat to safely support...
Standing / Perch Stairlifts vs Traditional Seated Stairlifts: What’s the Difference?
What Are We Talking About? Perch stairlift (often labelled a “standing stairlift” or “perching stairlift”) is a stairlift variant where the user travels in a near-standing or half-standing (“perched”) position, rather than sitting fully. A traditional seated...
Straight vs Curved Stairlifts: What’s the Real Difference in Cost?
TL;DR: Straight stairlifts are much cheaper than curved ones, typically costing £1,800–£3,000 less. Straight lifts use standard rails and simpler installation, while curved stairlifts need bespoke, custom-made rails and more complex fitting, pushing prices to around...
Can You Rent a Curved Stairlift? Realistic Expectations
Key Takeaways Yes, in the UK you can rent a curved stairlift, even for fairly short-term needs. Compared with straight-stair rental, expect higher upfront costs, modular/rental-rail fitting, and slightly longer lead times. Rentals usually include installation,...
How Removal Affects the Resale Value of Your Stairlift
Key Takeaways Professional removal protects and often increases the resale value of a stairlift. DIY removal can significantly reduce resale value by damaging parts, cutting cables, or bending rail sections. Straight stairlifts hold value much better than curved...
How Long Stairlift Removal Takes (By Model Type)
Key Takeaways Most stairlift removals take 1–2 hours, depending on the model, staircase type, and the lift's condition. Straight stairlifts are quickest to remove, usually under 90 minutes. Curved stairlifts take longer due to heavier rails and more brackets,...
Can a Stairlift Be Reinstalled in Another Home?
Key Takeaways Straight stairlifts can often be reinstalled in another home, as their rails are modular and easier to adapt. Curved stairlifts are usually not re-installable elsewhere because their rails are custom-made for the original staircase. A qualified engineer...
What to Do With Your Stairlift After It’s Removed
Key Takeaways After removal, you can sell, donate, recycle, trade in, or dispose of your stairlift, depending on its age and condition. Some companies offer buy-back schemes or free removal if the stairlift is reusable. Curved stairlifts are harder to resell because...
How to Prepare Your Home for Stairlift Removal
Key Takeaways Preparing your home for stairlift removal is simple; most tasks involve clearing space and ensuring safe access for engineers. Removal is quick (usually 1–2 hours) and non-destructive, but you can speed it up by preparing beforehand. You don’t need to do...
Hidden Costs to Watch For When Renting a Stairlift
Key Takeaways Stairlift rental is often affordable upfront, but hidden fees can appear in contracts. The most common extra costs include installation fees, removal charges, minimum-term penalties, call-out exclusions, and curved-rail surcharges. Always ask for a full...
Straight Stairlift Maintenance: A Simple Yearly Checklist
Key Takeaways Straight stairlifts require minimal maintenance, but a simple annual routine helps keep them safe, smooth, and reliable. A professional service is recommended annually for most users. Regular checks help prevent unexpected breakdowns and extend the...