When to Choose a Stair Lift vs. Home Elevator for Home

Moving between the levels of your home should be a simple and safe process. But there’s more than one way to achieve this goal.

Both stair lifts and elevators provide secure passage between floors. So how do you make the stair lift or elevator choice? Begin by learning about the advantages that each product offers. Then, determine which best aligns with your needs.

The stair lift vs. elevator breakdown below will provide you with the information you need to make a confident decision.

Stair Lifts

Stair lifts, also known as chair lifts, allow a user to sit securely in a chair that moves up and down the stairs along a rail. Stair lifts can be installed indoors and outdoors on a wide variety of staircases, including curved and narrow staircases.

Quick to Install

In some cases, installing an accessibility solution quickly is a priority. When time is a constraint, stair lifts are a great option as there is no need for construction to install them. The chair moves along a rail that is attached directly to the stair treads.

While timelines vary, it is common for stair lift installations to take less than a day. This is partly because there are fewer requirements for adding a stair lift to your home than for adding an elevator. For the best experience, work with a stair lift provider that employs professionally trained technicians to complete the set up and walk you through the usage instructions.

Cost-Effective

Another factor in the stair lift vs. elevator decision is cost. The cost of a stair lift varies depending on the model, features included, the layout of the staircase and more.

For example, a straight stair lift with standard features will fall on the lower end of the price spectrum. A curved rail stair lift with a custom upholstered chair and painted rail will fall at the higher end of the spectrum.

Either way, a stair lift costs significantly less than a home elevator, making it a budget-friendly option. If budget is a primary concern, reconditioned stair lifts are another option that may be available, depending on your staircase layout.

Removable

Lastly, stair lifts are a great solution that can be removed if needed. For example, if you decide to sell your home, and the new homebuyer does not wish to have a stair lift, what happens next?

Just as stair lifts can be quickly installed, they can be removed by the right professional. When performed by a skilled technician, stair lift removal is a simple process that leaves little to no visible damage to the stairs or surrounding area.

Home Elevators

Now that we’ve covered stair lifts, it’s time to discuss elevators. Home elevators allow users to travel between floors at the touch of a button. The unmatched convenience and luxury of a home elevator is something that you can enjoy for years to come.

Fully Customizable

When deciding between a stair lift and an elevator, one factor to consider is customization. An elevator will be designed from the ground up, giving you control over the interior and exterior design. You are in complete control of your home elevator design, from selecting a unique elevator door to choosing the interior fixtures’ finish. Whatever your design goals are, a skilled home elevator company can assist.

Convenient

A prime advantage that home elevators offer is convenience. They allow the rider to bypass the stairs and enjoy a smooth and safe journey between multiple levels. This is especially beneficial for wheelchair users. So, if wheelchair accessibility is a priority, then a home elevator may be preferable.

Another aspect of elevator convenience comes from the range of options available. If lengthy construction time is not feasible, a shaftless elevator can be installed. A shaftless elevator, also known as a through-the-floor elevator, can be installed with minimal construction and still provides the convenience of a traditional elevator.

Luxurious

Home elevators are a luxurious addition to your residence. From the elegant exterior doors to the tastefully designed interior, home elevators exude sophistication. With a home elevator, you don’t have to sacrifice aesthetics to make your home more accessible. This luxury solution provides both, while also adding to the value of your home.

Need Help Choosing? Arrow Lift Is Here to Help!

To sum it up, both stair lifts and elevators are great additions to your home. Your stair lift vs. elevator choice will depend on budget, timeframe, willingness to allow for construction and final desired result. Stair lifts offer a fast and cost-effective solution, while home elevators provide ultimate convenience and luxury.

To learn more about both options and get an expert opinion on which would best suit your needs, contact Arrow Lift today!