Your close beloved senior at home who struggle to use the stairs should have a stairlift installed that complements the ease of use and safety standards. At the same time, the stairlift should match the type of staircase you have in your home. Are you finding it difficult to balance the comforts of stairlift users and the type of stairs (strait or curved) in your house? This is the right place to find a solution. We’re here with a comparative discussion about straight stairlifts vs curved stairlifts; this comprehensive guide will help you find the best stairlift for senior users.
Why Is It Important to Choose the Right Stairlift?
It is important to choose the right stairlift to ensure that it is functional and effective. Above everything, the layout of the stairs is also important. If you are choosing a curved stairlift for a straight staircase, it is simply not going to work. At the same time, if you want a straight stairlift for a curved staircase, that is not going to fit either. Additionally, choosing the right stairlift offers enhanced user experience, durability, and cost optimization.
What Are the Two Types of Stairlifts?
There are several types of stairlifts depending on their shape and purpose. But when it comes to accommodating different kinds of staircases, there are two types. Straight stairlifts and custom curved stairlifts. We have delved deeper into each type in the section below,
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Straight Stairlifts
A straight stairlift is a stairlift designed for stairs without any turns in the flight. Straight stairlift rails are cut to match the length of the staircase, while their seats come with customizable features and options. These stairlifts are perfect for confined staircases and provide a safe and reliable solution for individuals looking to regain independence at home. With useful features such as seatbelts, swivel seats, and intuitive controls, straight stairlifts offer a secure and user-friendly way of using the stairs while minimizing disruption to the staircase.
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Custom Curved Stairlifts
A curved stairlift is a customizable stairlift designed for stairs that turn. It can be installed on all sorts of staircase configurations, ranging from simple 90° turns to long spiral staircases. The basic drawback of curved stairlifts is the higher price. A longer installation time is also a critical downside of these stair lifts.
Straight Stairlift vs Curved Stairlift: Which Stairlift Is Better?
The simplest answer to this question is it depends on your needs. It depends on your choice, staircase layout, and the perfect installation. Here, we have discussed the key differences between curved and straight stairlifts. This section will help you to decide whether you need a straight or curved stairlift,
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Staircase Design
Staircase design determines the choice at its core. If you have a straight staircase, consider different types of straight stairlifts. If you have a more angular and spiral staircase, a curved stairlift is the correct choice. There is a high chance that a pre-built stairlift may not fit with the staircase layout.
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Design and Installation
Straight stairlifts are simpler and easier to install than curved ones. Their design is common and conventional. As you can get one pre-built, it is the quickest to install. Curved stair lifts have bends, curved rails, and better landing options. These make them comparatively more aesthetic.
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Aesthetics vs. Functionality
The aesthetics of supportive tools are not always a preference. In general, the functionality of a stairlift is more important than its aesthetics. Typically, straight stair lifts are more focused on functionality. While a curved stairlift fitted into a creatively designed staircase is meant to look better for many users.
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Cost Considerations
Usually, curved stair lifts are more expensive than straight stairlifts. Most of our indoor straight stair Lift Ranges from $3,000-$4,000, including installation. Curved stair lifts are custom-made to fit your stairway, so prices will vary. Typical costs range between $9,000 and $16,000.
FAQs
Q. What Is the Lifespan of a Stairlift?
A: Stairlifts usually last from a minimum of 2 to up to 10 years. The lifespan of a standard stairlift depends on maintenance and proper installation.
Q. Do Stair Lifts Use a Lot of Electricity?
A: No, stair lifts are generally fairly energy-efficient. On average, they use about. 024 kWh, which is the equivalent of about $15 per year.
Q. Can You Buy a Stairlift and Install It Yourself?
A: Yes, you can install a stairlift. However, experience in carpentry or mechanics is crucial to do it. Some tools may also be required to complete the project. Considering reputable stairlift experts may make the process easier.
Final Words from Us
Choosing the right stairlift for your home depends on the users’ personalized needs. Considering the layout of existing staircases and budget ensures the success of the installation. In Call Before You Fall, we offer a variety of straight and curved stairlift collections. Our stair lifts are fully customizable and fit seamlessly into any design scheme. Don’t let physical limitations limit your lifestyle. Call us to schedule a home evaluation at 800.829.1491.
