Straight vs. Curved Stairlifts: Key Differences

 

Choosing the right stairlift depends almost entirely on the design of your staircase. The two main types, straight and curved, have significant differences in compatibility, design, cost, and installation time.

 

1. Staircase Compatibility and Design

 

The primary differentiator is the track system designed for different staircase shapes.

• Straight Stairlifts: These are designed exclusively for staircases that run in a single, continuous, straight line with no turns, bends, or landings.

  • Rail: They use a standard, mass-produced straight rail, typically made from aluminium, that is cut to the correct length.

  • Fit: They are an excellent fit for homes with straightforward layouts and are generally more space-efficient, requiring a minimum staircase width of about 28 inches. When folded, the depth is approximately 12 inches.

  • Features: Standard features often include fold-up seats, armrests, and footrests to minimise obstruction, as well as safety sensors. Some models offer a hinged or retractable rail option at the bottom to prevent a tripping hazard.

• Curved Stairlifts: These are essential for staircases that feature turns, bends, corners, intermediate landings, or have a spiral design.

  • Rail: The rail is custom-made to precisely follow the unique contours and shape of the stairs. This bespoke design allows the lift to navigate 90-degree or 180-degree turns seamlessly.

  • Fit: They offer a tailor-made solution for complex staircases, including split-level entries or multi-floor access. They generally require a slightly wider minimum staircase width, often recommended at 30+ inches.

  • Features: Due to their custom nature, they can often include more advanced features and customization options such as custom rail colors, upholstery choices, powered swivel seats, and the ability to "overrun" to park the chair away from the top of the stairs.

 

2. Cost and Affordability

 

The manufacturing process is the main factor driving the difference in price.

• Straight Stairlifts: These are the more cost-effective option. Because they use a standard rail that is mass-produced, the manufacturing and design costs are significantly lower. New straight stairlifts often start from around £2250, reconditioned options can be substantially but best practice is to always use a professional installed that provides a comprehensive warranty.

• Curved Stairlifts: These are substantially more expensive. The cost is higher because the rail is individually measured, designed, and custom-fabricated to fit the unique twists and turns of the staircase. New curved stairlifts typically start from about £4250 to £7,000 for more complicated and longer configurations. Again recondition stairlifts are available with substantial savings.

 

3. Installation and Timeline

 

The time from placing an order to installation is significantly different between the two types.

• Straight Stairlifts: Installation is much faster and more straightforward.

  • Lead Time: Since the components are standard, they can often be delivered and installed very quickly, sometimes within a few days of ordering, with next-day installation possible in some emergency cases. Acorn Stairlifts are one of the fastest around.

  • Installation Time: The actual fitting typically takes only 2 to 4 hours, often completed within half a day by a professional installer.

• Curved Stairlifts: The process involves a much longer lead time due to the custom manufacturing process.

  • Lead Time: After the detailed measurements are taken (sometimes using special digital photography equipment), Acorn Stairlifts unique modular rail system means they can often install within a few days, for other stairlifts it can take 4 to 6 weeks (or sometimes longer) for the custom-built rail to be manufactured and approved.

  • Installation Time: Once the custom rail arrives, the on-site installation generally takes longer than a straight lift, usually around 4 to 8 hours, in rare cases up to a full day or two, depending on the rail's complexity. 

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In summary, a straight stairlift is the quicker, simpler, and more affordable choice for a single, uninterrupted flight of stairs. A curved stairlift is an essential, tailor-made, and more costly solution for any staircase that has bends, turns, or landings, ensuring a smooth and safe ride from one floor to the next.