Deciding on the best stairlift type can be overwhelming, especially if you’re worried about installation requirements. Stairlift installation is relatively quick, taking anywhere from two hours to a full day when completed by a professional installer.
If you’d like to learn more about stairlift installation before renting or buying a stairlift, read our helpful guide today.
The Stairlift Installation Process
The stairlift installation process consists of several important steps:
- Initial Consultation – Contact a professional stairlift company and arrange a home visit to discuss your requirements and the stairlift types available.
- Home Visit – Home evaluations allow experts to assess your space and stairlift type, measuring staircase width, length, and step depth to provide the best-suited stairlift to suit your needs.
- Requirement Discussion – Everyone’s mobility needs are different, and you may require additional features on your stairlift for optimal safety and added comfort.
- Quote – Before placing an order, assess your free stairlift quote to ensure it fits within your budget.
- Place Order – After pricing has been confirmed, place your order and wait until your stairlift is ready for installation.
- Secure Date – Once your stairlift is ready for installation, a suitable date will be arranged that works around your schedule.
- Installation – An expert team of stairlift installers will visit your home and complete a professional stairlift installation.
- Testing – Installers will test your stairlift to ensure it’s fitted properly and safe for you to use independently.
- Answer Questions – Use the time after installation and testing to ensure all of your questions have been answered.
What Does Stairlift Installation Include?
Stairlift installation often includes:
- Delivery
- Installation
- Electrical work
- Removal of obstructions (such as handrails)
It’s important to note that some stairlift suppliers may operate differently from others. Before finalising your purchase, find out the type of installation your supplier offers, whether any alterations to your home will be required, and who is responsible for making them.
How is a Stairlift Attached to the Stairs?
A stairlift is attached to the stairs on the stair treads (the flattest part of each step) using brackets to form a stable track along the staircase.
There is no disruption to your wall during stairlift installation, as the track is attached to the actual steps, rather than the wall or banister itself. The track, which is fixed to the treads using small brackets, is what allows your stairlift to move. Straight stairlifts offer quicker stairlift installation compared to curved stairlifts, which require more complex, custom-made tracks.
Can a Stairlift be Installed on Any Staircase?
Typically, a stairlift can be installed on most staircases, depending on the width, length, and overall condition of your staircase.
Most modern stairlifts accommodate a range of staircase types, from straight designs to more complicated, curved or narrow structures. Luckily, there are plenty of options available on the market today to ensure a smooth and hassle-free stairlift installation, including narrow stairlifts, hinged-rail stairlifts, and custom-made tracks to suit alternative staircase types.
Does Stairlift Installation Damage Carpets?
Stairlift installation generally does not damage carpets, as the brackets used to hold your stairlift up are above the ground where your carpet lies. However, small holes may be drilled through the carpet, but these are unnoticeable.
How it works…
Support brackets are screwed into the stair treads through the carpet, rather than underneath it. In turn, this means you don’t have to lift, remove, or stretch your carpet. However, if you plan on fitting new carpet, we highly recommend doing so before stairlift installation.
Does Stairlift Installation Damage the Staircase?
Stairlift installation causes minimal damage to your staircase, and only very minor holes are drilled to attach the stairlift to the stairs. If your stairlift is installed by trained professionals, such as ourselves here at Halton Stairlifts, then you have nothing to worry about regarding the integrity of your staircase!
How Long Does Stairlift Installation Take?
Stairlift installation time takes between two to four hours to complete on average, varying based on the type of stairlift being fitted.
For example, straight stairlift installations take a minimal amount of time compared to curved stairlifts, which undergo a more complex and time-consuming process.
Stairlift Cost With Installation in the UK
Stairlift cost with installation can be anywhere from £1,700 upwards, depending on::
- Stairlift type
- Stairlift brand
- Staircase type
To learn more about stairlift costs in greater detail, read our helpful guide on stairlift costs.
Can You Install a Stairlift Yourself?
Technically speaking, anyone can install a stairlift themselves, but it’s highly advisable not to.
Stairlift installation should be carried out by trained engineers to ensure safety and prevent injury. Professional installation means that your stairlift is fitted correctly in line with strict guidelines and specific measurements to match your staircase. If you buy or rent a stairlift from a reputable company, they should install the device as part of their service.
Are You Looking for Trusted Stairlift Installers?
If you’re seeking expert stairlift installation near you, we can help! At Halton Stairlifts, we have over a decade of experience in stairlifts and installations, with next-day fittings available for those requiring a stairlift quickly. Our DBS-checked engineers are friendly, dedicated, and professional.
Get your FREE quote today or contact us to find out more about our stairlift installations.
Neil is the founder of Halton Stairlifts. He has years of experience installing stairlifts across the UK. With an eagerness to help those with mobility issues get up the stairs, Neil understands how important it is for a seamless and straightforward approach to installing stairlifts to help those in need quickly.
