Best Stair Lift Companies

A stair lift is a motorized device that rides along a staircase to carry users up and down the stairs securely. These devices let people with limited mobility navigate their homes safely and avoid dangerous falls.

There are different types of stair lifts available, including indoor, outdoor, straight, curved, seated and standing options. Some stair lifts also have optional add-ons, like footrests, armrests or foldable seats.

A stair lift can cost you anywhere from $2,000 to over $10,000, depending on what type of staircase you have and what add-ons you want to include. A simple straight stair lift for about 12 to 14 steps will be the least expensive, coming in around $2,000 before installation. If you have a curved staircase, expect to spend at least $10,000. Keep in mind that the cost of a stair lift, no matter what type of staircase you have, will pay for itself if it means you can stay in your home instead of moving or going to an assisted living facility.

Compare stair lift costs

Here’s a comparison of some popular stair lift manufacturers based on their product offerings, maximum weight limits, warranty lengths and starting costs at the time of publishing. Keep in mind that the add-ons and features you choose have a significant effect on the final price of your stair lift, though.

Stair lifts come in multiple styles and configurations to match your staircase and mobility needs. Not all of these types are mutually exclusive, though. Here are a few of the more popular home stair lift variations.

Straight stair lift

Straight stair lifts go straight up and down steps. They are designed for traditional flights of stairs and can be installed on either side of the staircase. Straight stair lifts tend to be the least expensive type of stair lift.

Curved stair lift

Curved stair lifts are for any staircase that has a spiral or goes around a corner. Since this type of stair lift requires more customization, it will cost considerably more than a straight stair lift.

Choosing the right stair lift is
dependent on your staircase,
mobility and required features.

Outdoor stair lift

Some stair lifts are specifically made for the outdoors and can withstand extreme temperatures and weather conditions. These lifts are attached to a deck or patio staircase so that the user can access their entryway.

Seated stair lifts

Most people think of seated stair lifts when they think of a stair lift. These lifts contain a seat with a back and a footrest, both of which are usually adjustable. The user sits down and presses a button on the lift to raise or lower it.

Standing stair lifts

Users who have difficulty sitting, can't bend their knees easily or prefer to stand may want to use a standing stair lift. This type of platform allows the user to stand up and hold on to the sides of the lift. These lifts are often narrower than full seated lifts.

Stair lifts also frequently come with additional features to make them safer, more convenient and more comfortable. Check with your stair lift provider to see what features come with a given model and which you can add on for an extra fee.

Stair lift safety

Most stair lifts are equipped with a variety of safety features to ensure users don't fall or injure themselves, including:

• Safety sensors: Most stair lifts contain sensors that search for obstacles in the device's path, such as items left on the steps. The sensors automatically turn off the device and don't allow movement until the obstacles are removed.
• Aircraft or other strong cables: Cables are designed to hold up to 4,200 pounds so that they won't snap or break while people are using the device.
• Pressure-sensitive controls: Controls on the device itself are sensitive to pressure; if the user stops pressing the button, the lift immediately stops moving.
• Backup batteries: These batteries keep stair lifts operational when the power supply is inconsistent, like during power outages.

The stair lift you choose should contain as many of these safety features as possible. It is also critical to ensure that your stair lift is properly installed and that your staircase is sturdy and large enough to fit the stair lift you desire.

Remote control

Many stair lifts offer a remote control to access the stair lift from far away and provide the following benefits:

• Calling the lift to your location: If a user is on one floor and the stair lift is on the other, the user can call the lift to where it is needed by pressing a button on the remote control.
• Saving power: Users can save the stair lift's power by turning it off via remote control when not in use.
• Working in conjunction with device control: The device itself may have a joystick or button that controls the lift. The remote will not override this control and can only be used when the stair lift is not in operation.

Swivel ability

Most stair lifts allow the seat to swivel so that it can be turned by hand or while a person is sitting in it. There are several benefits to a stair lift that swivels:

• Users can get in without turning around: Users can simply sit down in the seat and turn it in the direction they want to go.
• The device can turn at the top/bottom of steps: The stair lift can very easily be turned around so that it can go in the other direction.
• Allows for conversation while on the device: Users can turn slightly to talk to caregivers or others while riding the device.

Adjustability

Most stair lifts allow users to quickly and easily adjust the seat. Look for the following features to customize your comfort level:

• Lever operated: Users might be able to raise or lower the seat by pressing a lever with their foot or hand.
• Adjustable back and footrests: Users can adjust both the back of the device and the footrest for maximum comfort.
• Folding seat: The seat can be folded back on some units to create a standing platform or a perch seat.

Platform stair lift options

Many stair lifts offer a variety of platform options to make them useful and enjoyable to a wide range of customers.

• Sit/stand option: Users can fold the seat back to make a standing platform for those who would rather stand up while being transported up and down steps.
• Perch seat: Those who have difficulty with their knees may find it easier to get into a perch seat than into a standard seat.
• Hinged platform: Hinged platforms allow the device to attach to stairs that are located inside a doorway or other narrow space.

It can be difficult to know where to start when buying a stair lift for yourself or a loved one. There are a number of different types of stair lifts available, and there are even more options and features to consider. Here are some steps to get started choosing the right stair lift for your needs.

Step 1: Understand mobility needs

The first step is to understand the current needs of the person who will be using the stair lift. Ask yourself some questions:

• Are you or your loved one finding it difficult to climb stairs?
• Are these mobility issues long- or short-term?
• How much can you afford to spend on a stair lift?
• Is the staircase able to hold a stair lift?
• What is the user’s height and weight?
• Is the user more comfortable sitting or standing?

Answering these types of questions can help you understand your current needs and decide what type of stair lift you need.

Step 2: Understand your current environment

The size of your home and the type and condition of your staircase often determine the types of stair lifts available to you. A straight staircase requires a stair lift with a standard straight rail. However, if your staircase is curved, the stair lift rail needs to be customized to fit that curve. Outdoor staircases require specialty stair lifts, and the construction of your staircase may limit you to models with certain mounting requirements.

Step 3: Consider buying vs. renting

The third step is considering whether you want to buy or rent a stair lift. If the intended user is unlikely to regain full mobility and wants to stay in the home long-term, it may be a good idea to purchase a stair lift. If the stair lift is needed for only a short period, renting may be more convenient and more cost-efficient.

Step 4: Check with manufacturers

Once you know what you’re looking for, it’s time to check out your options. There are several stair lift manufacturers in the market, and most offer an array of options and features. Comparing these options to your needs helps eliminate what’s unnecessary to focus on what matters. Check reviews, compare specifications and get quotes to evaluate which stair lift is right for you.

Step 5: Make the decision

Once you have done your research, it is time to close the deal. Talk to your stair lift provider about an in-home evaluation or inspection and get a final quote, including installation and accessories. If everything is to your liking, purchase the device and set up plans for installing it.