When it comes to improving accessibility at home, a stairlift can be a life-changing addition to your property. If you’re keen to have a stairlift you may not be sure which type you need – a simple straight one or a more expensive curved stairflift. Understanding the difference is key to making the right choice for your home and budget.
Understanding Stairlift Basics
The fundamental difference between these two types of home mobility solutions lies in the track design. A straight stairlift runs along a single, uninterrupted track fitted to a flight of stairs with no turns, bends or landings. A curved stairlift, on the other hand, operates on a track that is designed to navigate stairs that turn, have intermediate landings, or feature more complex layouts.
Staircase Types: Which Do You Have?
Before choosing a stairlift, take a good look at your staircase. If your stairs run in one continuous line from bottom to top without any curves or direction changes, you have a straightforward case for a straight stairlift. These are the most common staircase types in UK homes, particularly in terraced houses and modern builds.
However, if your stairs turn at a landing, wind around a corner, or have a more unusual shape, you’ll need a curved stairlift. Many period properties, larger homes and houses with split-level designs require this more bespoke solution.
Stairlift Cost Considerations
One of the biggest differences between the two stairlift options is price. Straight stairlifts are considerably more affordable because they use standardised tracks that can be manufactured in advance. You’re typically looking at around £2,000 to buy a brand new straight quality stairlift and have it installed. There are stairlift providers, like Suttons Stairlifts who cover Somerset and Devon, who offer straight stairlifts for a reasonable monthly rental (with an upfront installation fee).
Curved stairlifts represent a larger investment, often costing several times more than their straight counterparts. This is because each curved stairlift requires tailored stairlift fitting. The track must be custom-made to match the exact specifications of your staircase, including every angle, turn and landing. Think of it as the difference between buying a suit off the rack versus having one made to measure. You could save by opting for a refurbished second-hand stairlift.
How Long Does it Take to Install a Stairlift?
If you need mobility support in a hurry, installation time is an important factor. Straight stairlift installation is relatively quick and, quite literally, straightforward. Once you’ve placed your order, fitting your stairlift can often be completed within a few days, sometimes even on the same day, as the tracks and components are pre-manufactured and ready to fit.
Curved stairlifts require more patience, because the track needs to be custom-designed and manufactured specifically to fit your staircase. The process typically takes several weeks from initial survey to final installation. A professional will visit your home to take precise measurements, then your bespoke track will be specially created to fit your staircase before the fitting team returns to install it.
Stairlift Design and Functionality
Both types of stairlifts serve the same essential purpose, which is, of course, to enable safe, effortless movement up and down the stairs, but there are some design differences worth noting.
Straight stairlifts are mechanically simple, which can be an advantage when it comes to ongoing maintenance. Should you need stairlift repairs or stairlift servicing, parts are more readily available and technicians are familiar with the standardised systems.
Curved stairlifts are engineering marvels that can navigate the most challenging staircases. The track bends seamlessly around corners and landings, and modern models are designed to be as slim and unobtrusive as possible, preserving space for other household members to use the stairs.
Which Stairlift Should You Choose?
The decision ultimately comes down to your staircase layout rather than personal preference. If you have a straight staircase, a straight stairlift will serve you perfectly well and represent excellent value for money. There’s no need to pay for the custom engineering of a curved model when a standard one will do the job.
However, if your stairs have any bends, turns or intermediate landings, a curved stairlift isn’t just the better option—it’s the only option that will work safely and effectively.
Making the Right Decision
Choosing a stairlift is an important decision that affects your daily comfort and independence. If you’re unsure which type suits your home, the best approach is to arrange a professional assessment. Companies like Suttons Stairlifts offer free home surveys where experts can evaluate your staircase, discuss your mobility needs, and recommend the most suitable solution.
Based in Shepton Mallet, Somerset, the friendly, helpful team at Suttons Stairlifts are always happy to give honest, independent advice in homes across the county and neighbouring Devon. Don’t hesitate to get in touch – for Devon call 01803 678073 and for Somerset call 01749 346900.