Stairlift Installation: What is the Process?
The installation process of stairlifts is a common concern for those considering purchasing this equipment. As it can involve a significant financial investment, people often seek comprehensive information to make an informed decision. Additionally, since a stairlift will become part of their living space, concerns about the proper installation and potential damage to their home may arise. To address some of these inquiries, the following guides offer helpful information.
Attaching a Stairlift to the Stairs: How is it Done?
When individuals contemplate installing a stair lift to enhance their home’s accessibility, they may have concerns about the structural stability of their staircase and whether adding a stair lift will compromise it. Stairlift installations typically involve attaching a track on brackets that elevate the rail above the stairs.
During installation, the brackets are fixed onto the treads of the stairs using 2 to 5 screws per bracket, which ensures that there will be no harm to the banister or the walls adjacent to the staircase, as well as the top or bottom of the stairs. To prevent scuffing or scraping, stairlifts are typically installed at a reasonable distance from the wall or banister.
It is strongly recommended that individuals seek the assistance of a professional or reputable stairlift company like Handicare when installing a stair lift rather than attempting it themselves.
Will Installation Cause Damage to Carpets and Stairs?
Carpets: Installing a stair lift should not result in carpet damage since the brackets are responsible for elevating the stairlift track above the floor. Moreover, the support screws are drilled through the carpet, which eliminates the need for it to be lifted and reinstalled.
Due to their small diameter, the support screws should not create noticeable or large holes, but there may be some indentation from the weight. In addition, the carpet beneath the brackets may be a different color if it has faded elsewhere.
It’s important to note that if the carpet is in poor condition, stray threads and piles may create obstructions or hazards for the stairlift track.
Stairs: As long as stairlifts are installed by professionals like Handicare, the impact on the structural stability of stairs should be minimal, regardless of the type of stairlift. This is due to the limited number of screws required to attach the stairlift to the stairs.
When it comes to indoor stairlifts, brackets are usually attached to either carpet or wooden tread, which may result in a few tiny holes that will require minimal attention.
Stairlifts on Unusual Staircases: Can They Be Installed Anywhere?
The stairlift market offers a variety of models, including curved stairlifts that can accommodate unusually shaped stairs, and straight stairlifts designed for more conventional staircases. Hence, the inquiry of whether stairlifts can be installed on any stairs is a prevalent one among individuals considering stairlift installation.
For individuals unsure about which stairlift model will fit their stairs, an advisor can arrange a home visit and provide guidance on selecting the appropriate model.
How long does it take to install a stairlift?
The installation of a stairlift by a professional typically takes only around four hours and involves instruction on proper usage, maintenance, and cleaning of the equipment.