What is a Stair Lift ?

What is a stair lift?

First of all, if we are going to be talking about stair lifts, we need to know what a stair lift is. A stair lift, in its most common sense, is a chair that is mounted to a track and automatically lifts you from the top of the stairs to the bottom or vice-versa. They come in many different types and fashions [which we will discuss shortly] and service a variety of needs. Some of the first stair lifts that were manufactured and sold were in the 1930’s by a company called Inclinator Company of America. The main reason and purpose for these originally were for those that were restricted by Polio. Since then however, as times have changed, we have seen an enormous growth and market open up for all purposes and types of stair lifts. I can only imagine what the future holds… maybe a floating chair operated by magnets. Either way, stair lifts are going to be around for quite a long time if you ask me.

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Different types of stair lifts:

As I mentioned earlier… there are many different types of stair lifts. Your two categories of interest will be Straight stair lifts and Curved stair lifts; both names speak for themselves. When it comes down to it, the type of stair lift that you get will weigh heavily on your stair type. If it is a straight run of stairs, then your obvious choice will be a straight stair lift. If the stairs have any curve to them whatsoever, your choice will be a curved stair lift. There is one exception however… sometimes you come across a set of stairs that has a staircase going up to a landing and then another stair case on the opposite side. Now in this case, you can go either way: a curved stair lift that goes from the top to the bottom, or two straight stair lifts. Another area that will determine the type is whether or not your stairs are indoor or outdoor. Weight of a person also plays a factor as most stair lifts do have a weight capacity. All in all, the type of stair lift you either rent, purchase, or find second-hand will ultimately decide for itself with the type of stairs you have.

Prices of stair lifts:

A straight stair lift can run you as much as 5,000 depending on the make and model. You can usually find better deals… you just have to do your homework and know exactly what you want in a straight stair lift. Sometimes if you can live without the “bells and whistles” you can find a straight stair lift that is very cost friendly. Most people in the end choose to go with a straight stair lift. Now a curved stair lift on the other hand… you are looking at spending a minimum of 9,000. To name a few reasons why: it is a complicated piece of machinery AND you cannot install this yourself. It is however, a very nice piece of complicated machinery… and with all the amenities that are included, you will be riding in style. There are also stair lifts that you can buy second-hand that are just as good as the newer ones and for just a fraction of the cost as well. You can find used stair lifts starting at just 500.00 at: www.StairLiftExchange.com It is worth a gander, especially when it is going to be saving you money.