Any two or three-story home where the occupant is elderly, physically disabled, and unable to move around easily or without much effort, can surely benefit from the many features that most modern stairlifts include in their build.
Back in the day, stairlifts were simpler and had only the basic up and down features. The cost of stairlifts used to be exorbitantly expensive as well. Only the wealthiest homeowner could own a stairlift a few short decades ago when they were initially conceptualized.
Types of Stairlifts
Now, there are many options available for those in need of a stairlift in their home:Straight Stairlift
The straight stairlift is a good intro stairlift, since it is the least expensive (approx. $2,000-$5,000), as far as costs go, and the simplest to install or get used to. The cheapest the model, the more limited functions it will have.Curved Stairlift
Unlike the straight stairlift, where the installation is simple, the curve stairlift has bespoke curved rails to fit the shape of your specific staircase, so they are more expensive (pricing starts at approx. $10,000) and get even more expensive depending on the length of the staircase, the number of landings, etc.Standing Stairlift
Unlike the seated version, ideal for people with limited mobility or a disability, this model is best for people that can struggle to sit or have trouble bending the knees, hips or joints and prefer to stay in the same position.
Platform Stairlift
This model is pretty similar to a standing stairlift, except that instead of having a place to stand, it has a larger platform. It is mainly built for people in wheelchairs. It has safety bars to avoid any movements and joystick controls. A platform stairlift that travels around 4ft costs around $6,000.
Outdoor Stairlift
This lift is good for those who spend a lot of time outdoors and is specially designed to be hardy and resistant to the outdoor elements. The curved stairlift can be either indoors or outdoors and is best for anyone with stairs that follow curved staircases, rather than straight up and down ones.
Warranties will differ, depending on what type of stairlift and what company you choose to use. Most of the types of products available to the public today include some sort of product limited warranties set up through the company and are attached to the product upon purchase.
Extended warranties cost and additional fee. Having an extended warranty might not be such a bad idea since the device is sure to be within your home for many years. In most cases, the installed stairlift will be in the home for the extend of the occupant's life, or while they are living at that location.
Anyone who has a condition that will be with them for life may want to consider an extended warranty to go along with their stairlift. That way, when the limited warranty ends and if something happens to the product, there will be no issues in replacing parts or the whole machine if the need arises. Costs of these extended warranty offers will differ depending on the company.