Stairlifts For Narrow Stairs: What You Need To Know
- by Alfix Stairlifts
- •
- 29 Mar, 2019
- •
One of the most common things people ask about stairlifts is, if you live in an older, or smaller home, will a narrow staircase be sufficient to fit a stairlift? This isn’t surprising when you consider that many older properties in the UK, tend to have particularly narrow staircases, especially if you live in a terrace house. However, this doesn't mean that a stairlift is immediately not a consideration for you. Many reliable stairlift companies offer stairlifts that are specifically designed with a slim fit to fit into a narrow area, and they have a compact design that can be folded up when not in use. Read on to find out more about the options for stairlifts for a smaller home.
What classifies as a narrow staircase?
The smallest width of a stair that the majority of stairlifts can fit is 73cm (29 inches). Stairs that are smaller than this are certainly considered narrow. There is a possibility that installing a stairlift in a space smaller than this could be a threat to safety, in the sense that users could harm themselves by knocking into the wall or the bannister. What it comes down to is considering if you can sit in a seated position side on across your staircase.
The easiest solution to consider is opting for a compact design with a folding seat and arms to maximise the space available to you. A basic that is compactly designed will typically come with a folding footplate and rail, which can be beneficial in that you can neatly fold it away when it's not in use. While this is handy to know and super convenient, it still may not be a viable option for you. With this in mind, here are a couple more solutions to help utilise the space available to you.
A perching or standing stairlift
A perching or standing stairlift is a viable option for those who find difficulty in bending or who have restricted movement in their hips making it painful or difficult to sit down. This type of stairlift is designed in a particular way that requires you to stand by but also be slightly perched on a small seat. This can work perfectly for narrow stairwells, but you must also consider that you need additional headroom to stand for the journey and be able to disembark safely at the top of the stairs.
If a standing or perching stairlift isn't what you’re looking for, you may still be able to install a conventional style of stairlift. The only requirement is that it would involve installing a curved stairlift with a bespoke made to measure tracks which can be lifted when their not in use. This allows the stairlift to be parked away from the top or bottom of the stairs, leaving plenty of room for others to freely walk up and down the stairs. You may need to consider your budget if you opt for this style of stairlift as it will be slightly more costly as it is custom made.
At Alfix Stairlifts, we understand the stress and uncertainty that can come with purchasing a stairlift. Nevertheless, our expert and in-depth knowledge of stairlifts means we are able to advise you on the most appropriate stairlift for your home in accordance with your requirements. If you need guidance on what type of stairlift is suited to your home, get in touch today.
