Straight Stairlifts
Vs
Curved Stairlifts

If you have a straight flight of stairs in your home, you are one of the lucky ones, If you are 'blessed' with a curved staircase in your home choosing a stairlift can become slightly more difficult than choosing a stairlift for a straight flight of stairs.Curved staircases can come in many forms, Bends at the bottom, top, half-way or even spiral.

If you have a 'flat-bend' in your staircase, it maybe possible to start the stairlift from this point or if both flights are of equal length, fit two straight stairlifts.

Things To Consider When Choosing Two Straight Stairlifts Instead of One Curved Stairlift

• It would mean that you would have two straight stairlifts on your staircase
• The user would transfer between the two straight stairlifts on the half landing
• The user must physically be able to transfer between the two straight stairlifts
• In some cases, two straight stairlifts are the cheaper option than a curved stairlift
• Will the user's condition deteriorate?
• 2 x straight stairlift maintenance costs

A Straight Stairlift With a Platform Installation

'Fan-bends,' like "wedges of cheese" in the middle of your staircase tend to dictate that you must have a curved stairlift. If the fan is at the very top of the stairs, a platform installation is a possible alternative:

• Much cheaper than a curved stairlift installation
• Because of the nature of the platform installation, the straight stairlift finishes higher than normal, the user should not suffer from vertigo or dizzy spells
• This is not a good option if the user depends on a frame or wheelchair
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Some basic facts about curve rail chair lifts:

• More expensive than straight stair lifts, starting normally around £3,500-£4,000+ for reconditioned
• Bespoke to your staircase
• Unlike straight chairlifts, you cannot rent them for short term use
• Manufacture time can be any where from 2 - 8 weeks, depending on the complexity of your staircase
• You can now purchase reconditioned curve rails from suppliers who will professionally alter the track to suit your staircase