A guide to stair lift installation
Stair lift installation is often not as large an operation as people think and causes little to no damage. Read our guide to find out more.
Our video on the buying and installation process is available below and should answer any questions you may have. It covers everything from selecting the right stairlift for your needs to what to expect during the installation process. We hope this video gives you the clarity and confidence to make an informed decision.
A stairlift is a wonderful addition to any home and can drastically impact someone’s living conditions. Before purchase, some people have hesitations about how the installation of a stairlift may affect their home. Here, we have addressed those questions most frequently asked.
How is a stairlift attached to the stairs?
People often wonder if fitting a stair lift may compromise the structural integrity of the stairs. For stair lift installation, a track is attached on brackets to the wall for support, keeping the stairlift rails elevated from the stairs.
The brackets are attached to the treads of the stairs with 2 to 5 screws per bracket ensuring no damage to the bannister or walls surrounding the staircase. The installation team will always ensure your stairlift is a reasonable distance from the wall or bannister to prevent scuffs and scrapes.
You should always enlist a professional to install your stairlift as they are aware of the step-by-step practices it takes to safely install all types of stairlifts.
Will a stairlift damage my carpet?
As the majority of the stairlift is attached to the wall, rather than the stairs, there should be no damage to the carpet. The support screws that attach the brackets to the stairs will be installed through the carpet, so may leave small holes at the top and bottom of the stairs, as well as under the supporting bracket locations throughout, when you get your stairlift removed.
After your stairlifts are installed, there may be an indentation left in the carpet from the weight, which can usually be lifted out with a steam cleaner. Also, if the stairlift has been installed for a long time and the carpet has naturally faded, areas under the supports will not have faded and so there may be a slight colour variation.
Please note: A carpet with stray threads and pile may be an obstruction hazard to the track.
Will a stairlift damage my stairs?
As the stairlift is only attached to the stairs with minimal brackets, provided it has been installed by a professional stairlift company like Companion Stairlifts, there should be no impact to the structure of the staircase. As mentioned above, the only sign of a stairlift having been installed on stairs once removed will be screw holes, potential indentations or a slight colour variation due to natural fading.
Can a stairlift be installed on my stairs?
As we offer bespoke stairlifts, we are able to work with you to create a stairlift created for your staircase. So whether you are looking to get stairlifts installed on straight or curved staircases, we are able to arrange a free home assessment and work with you to advise on appropriate stairlift models.
How long does it take to install a stairlift?
With a professional installing your staircase, you’d be surprised how quick installation can be. Stairlift installation generally takes a couple of hours for a straight stairlift or curved stairlift, which not only includes all set up but teaching the user and other home occupants about how to properly use, clean and maintain a stairlift.
Can you install a stair lift yourself?
Many people love a do-it-yourself project or have a family member they can call on who is handy with home improvement projects. Whilst there are do-it-yourself home improvement projects that can save you time and money, when it comes to installing a stairlift it should be left to the professionals. Safety is paramount, as is ensuring proper installation. When the stair lift installation process is underway there are lots of things that need to be taken into consideration such as safely connecting the power supply, ensuring the tracks are properly aligned, the tracks brackets are properly fastened and making sure the angle of the model is correct to ensure that the stairlift owners have an unobstructed path when using it.
How much does a stair lift cost to install?
If you are looking at installing a stairlift into your home, you might be asking, ‘how much does a stair lift cost to install?’ Here at Companion Stairlifts, the installation comes as part of the price for buying a stairlift, but generally the stair lift installation cost will vary depending on the type of stairlift you go for, and it is best to speak to one of our advisors if you want to find out more information.
Please call us on 0800 117 0159 where our trained advisors can help answer any questions you may have regarding your stairlift installation. The line is open 24 hours a day and is free from landlines and some mobile networks.