Investing in your first stairlift is an important decision that can significantly enhance mobility and quality of life, especially for individuals with limited mobility. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process of selecting, purchasing, and installing your first stairlift:

1. Evaluate Your Needs and Lifestyle

  • Assess your mobility requirements: Are you able to walk up and down stairs slowly, or do you need a lift for ease of movement? Consider how often you will be using the stairlift as an accessibility solution.
  • Consider the layout of your stairs: Stairlifts work best in homes with straight stairs, but there are models designed for curved stairs too.
  • Identify any medical needs: If you have specific medical conditions (like arthritis, muscle weakness, etc.), this could influence the type of stairlift you need.

2. Understand the Different Types of Stairlifts

  • Straight Stairlifts: These are for homes with simple, straight stairs. They are more affordable and easier to install.
  • Curved Stairlifts: These are custom-made for staircases with turns, landings, or complex shapes. They are more expensive but necessary for curved stairs.
  • Outdoor Stairlifts: If you need a stairlift to reach an outdoor entry or porch, these models are weatherproof.
  • Platform Lifts: For individuals who use wheelchairs, platform lifts provide a larger surface for the user to sit or stand on, accommodating mobility devices.

3. Budget and Financing

  • Cost of the stairlift: The price can vary greatly based on the type, customization, and brand. Straight indoor stairlifts typically range from $3,500 to $5,500, while curved models can cost between $13,000 and $18,000 or more.
  • Stairlift Installation: Most stairlifts come with stairlift installation included, but always confirm if this is part of the pricing. For instance, Cairo Contracting offers the most cost-effective stairlift solutions for all types of staircases. 
  • Maintenance and Warranty: Look into any additional costs for regular maintenance or warranties. Some manufacturers offer extended warranties for an added cost.

4. Choose the Right Features

When choosing a stairlift as an accessibility solution, consider the following features:

  • Seat size and comfort: Ensure the seat is comfortable and supports your body well.
  • Safety features: Look for features like a seatbelt, swivel seat, armrests, and footrests.
  • Speed and smoothness: Check how fast the stairlift moves and how smoothly it operates, especially if you have a health condition that makes sudden movements uncomfortable.
  • Remote control and controls: Some models offer a remote control, which allows the user or a caregiver to call the lift from either top or bottom of the stairs.
  • Foldable seat and footrest: If space is an issue, look for stairlifts with foldable seats and footrests to save space when not in use.

5. Get Multiple Quotes and Compare Options

  • Reach out to different manufacturers and installers: Get at least three quotes from various providers. This will give you a sense of the cost range and allow you to compare different features. Savaria/ Handicare is one of the biggest Canadian manufacturers for accessibility solutions. 
  • Check for certifications: Make sure the stairlift is certified by relevant safety standards as per the BC bylaws.
  • Read customer reviews: Online reviews can give you insights into the performance and reliability of the stairlift model you’re considering. Cairo Contracting being the dealer of Savaria/ Handicare in BC has established itself for providing best customer experience for accessibility solutions. 

6. Installation Process

  • Pre-installation inspection: A professional installer will usually need to visit your home before installation to inspect the stairs and determine the best placement for the stairlift.
  • Quick and clean stairlift installation: Most stairlifts can be installed within a few hours, and the installation process is often non-invasive. The installer will mount the rail system to the steps, and the lift is typically not connected to electrical systems, so the stairlift installation should be simple.

7. Post-Installation Considerations

  • Training: After stairlift installation, make sure to get a demonstration of how to use the stairlift. It’s essential to understand how to operate it safely. Cairo Contracting has certified, well trained and experienced installers to provide the best customer experience. 
  • Regular maintenance: Stairlifts need occasional maintenance, such as checking for wear and tear on the rails and checking batteries (if battery-powered). Some companies offer service contracts for regular maintenance.
  • Warranty and customer support: Ensure the stairlift comes with a warranty, and keep the manufacturer’s contact information for future needs. Cairo Contracting is known for being just a phone call away with best customer service. 

8. Financial Assistance Options

  • Insurance coverage: Some health insurance plans or Medicare may help with the cost of a stairlift. Check with your provider to see if any coverage applies.
  • Government grants: In some regions, there may be government assistance or grants available to help pay for mobility aids, including stairlifts.
  • Tax deductions: Depending on your location and health condition, you might be able to claim the cost of an accessibility solution like stairlift as a medical expense on your taxes.

9. Ensure Long-Term Support

  • Consider future needs: If your mobility needs change in the future, ensure that the stairlift is adaptable. Some models can be upgraded or relocated if necessary.
  • Plan for potential resale: If you plan to move, research whether the stairlift can be easily removed and reinstalled at your new home or resold.

When choosing between custom rails and prefabricated rail sections for a curved stairlift, several key factors can influence the decision. Below are the advantages of choosing custom rails over prefabricated ones:

Why Choose Custom Rails For Curved Stairlift Vs Prefabricated Rail Section

1. Perfect Fit for Curved Stairs

  • Custom Rails: Curved staircases vary in shape, and a custom rail is designed to precisely follow the unique contours of the stairs. This ensures a seamless and smooth ride, enhancing both comfort and safety. Handicare Freecurve from Savaria is one of the best products available in the market for custom rails. 
  • Prefabricated Rails: These are typically designed for straight staircases, and while some manufacturers offer curved sections, they may not perfectly match every curve. The fit might be less precise, resulting in a less smooth ride and possible safety concerns.

2. Aesthetic Appeal

  • Custom Rails: A custom rail system is tailored to blend well with the interior design of the home. It can be made from various materials, finishes, and colors, giving homeowners the flexibility to match their décor perfectly. Handicare Freecurve provides you with the option of choosing from 3 chair and rail colors to match the interior of your home. 
  • Prefabricated Rails: These often come in a standard finish and may not offer the same level of aesthetic customization. The rail might stand out in a way that detracts from the overall look of the home.

3. Design Flexibility

  • Custom Rails: With custom rails, you have complete control over the design, allowing for multiple turns, spirals, or other complex curves that are unique to your home’s staircase.
  • Prefabricated Rails: These are often limited in their ability to handle complex curves, especially if the staircase has multiple twists or sharp angles. The prefabricated design might not accommodate the full layout of the staircase.

4. Long-Term Reliability

  • Custom Rails: Since they are specifically built for the exact dimensions of your staircase, custom rails tend to offer more stability, durability, and reliability over time. Cairo Contracting provides its customers with an extensive warranty option alongwith a phone call away technicians for service. 
  • Prefabricated Rails: While prefabricated rails are mass-produced, they may not provide the same level of quality or durability when installed on an unusually shaped staircase. They may wear down faster or experience operational issues.

5. Improved Performance

  • Custom Rails: The stairlift will operate more smoothly and efficiently on custom rails that perfectly fit the stairs. The system will follow the curves naturally, reducing the risk of misalignment or jerking movements. Handicare Freecurve by Savaria has established credibility over years for its world class ride up & down the curved staircases.
  • Prefabricated Rails: These may cause issues if the pre-manufactured sections don’t perfectly align with the stairs. This misalignment could lead to a rougher ride and additional wear on the stairlift components.

6. Enhanced Safety

  • Custom Rails: With the precision fit of custom rails, the Handicare Freecurve stairlift is more secure and safe for the user, reducing the chances of accidents or malfunctions.
  • Prefabricated Rails: A less-than-perfect fit could potentially lead to safety issues, such as the lift operating in an unstable manner, increasing the risk of falls or system failures.

7. Tailored Functionality

  • Custom Rails: Custom stairlift like Handicare Freecurve rails can be designed to accommodate additional features, such as narrower spaces or obstacles that prefabricated rails may not be able to handle efficiently.
  • Prefabricated Rails: Standard prefabricated sections may not have the versatility to handle specific functional needs, especially in older homes or those with non-standard stairs.

8. Higher Initial Cost but Greater Value

  • Custom Rails: While they tend to have a higher upfront cost, custom rails offer a long-term solution that improves user experience and home aesthetics. The investment is often worth the benefits of a perfect fit, enhanced safety, and long-term reliability.
  • Prefabricated Rails: Prefabricated options tend to be less expensive initially but may require future adjustments or lead to higher maintenance costs due to a less precise fit.

Choosing custom rails for a curved stairlift like Handicare Free curve provides a more personalized, precise, and reliable solution, especially for complex staircases. Though it requires a higher investment, it offers better performance, aesthetics, and safety in the long run. Prefabricated rails, on the other hand, may be a more budget-friendly option but may not provide the same level of quality, particularly for curved stairs. Cairo Contracting is known for providing the best cost effective custom rail solutions for curved stairlifts. Get in touch today for a free quote!

Curved stairlifts tend to be more expensive than straight stairlifts for several reasons:

Why Curved Stairlifts Are Expensive In Comparison To Straight Stairlifts

  1. Customization: Curved stairlifts are designed specifically for the unique shape of your staircase. Every curve, turn, or landing needs to be measured and accounted for, requiring a custom design and installation. Straight stairlifts, on the other hand, are generally mass-produced and can be installed on any straight staircase without needing special adaptations.
  2. Complex Installation: The installation process for a curved stairlift is more involved. It requires precise measurements and may need to be tailored to ensure the lift functions smoothly along the turns. It often involves creating a custom track that is bent to fit your staircase’s shape, which is a more labor-intensive and costly process.
  3. Materials and Design: The tracks for curved stairlifts are more complex and require stronger materials to support the turns. The engineering and technology involved in making the tracks work smoothly on a curved route adds to the overall cost.
  4. Longer Production Time: Because curved stairlifts are custom-made for each staircase, they typically take longer to manufacture and install, which drives up costs.
  5. Technology and Features: Curved stairlifts often come with more advanced features to ensure they work safely and effectively on a curved track, such as more sophisticated motors, sensors, and adjustments. This added technology increases the cost compared to the simpler straight stairlift models.

Benefits of Curved Stairlifts

Curved stairlifts from Savaria/ Handicare offer several advantages, especially for homeowners with unique or complex staircases. Here are the key benefits:

  1. Access to All Staircases: Handicare Freecurve stairlifts are ideal for homes with staircases that have landings, curves, or multiple turns. They are custom-designed to fit these complex structures, providing accessibility where straight stairlifts cannot.
  2. Safety and Independence: Curved stairlifts like Handicare Freecurve stairlift provide a safer way to navigate difficult stairs, reducing the risk of falls or accidents. They allow people with mobility issues to stay in their homes longer and maintain their independence without the need for assistance.
  3. Custom Fit: Since curved stairlifts are custom-made, they provide a perfect fit for your specific staircase, ensuring smoother and more comfortable rides. The track is designed to follow the exact layout of your stairs, including any twists or turns.
  4. Aesthetic Integration: Curved stairlifts such as Handicare Freecurve can be designed to blend seamlessly with the existing decor of your home. The custom tracks are less obtrusive than some might expect, and many models offer finishes and designs that match the interior of your home.
  5. Space Efficiency: Many curved stairlifts like Handicare Freecurve are designed to be compact, so they take up less space compared to traditional lifts or elevators. When not in use, some curved stairlifts have foldable seats and footrests that help to maximize the remaining space on your staircase.
  6. Smooth Ride: The track’s design and construction are tailored to ensure a smooth and steady ride, even through the curves. This makes it easier for the user to get from one floor to another without any jarring or discomfort.
  7. Increase Property Value: Installing a Handicare Freecurve stairlift can make your home more accessible, which can be a selling point if you ever decide to sell. Accessibility features like stairlifts are becoming more attractive to potential buyers, particularly those with aging family members or mobility challenges.
  8. Long-Term Investment: While the initial cost may be higher, Handicare Free curve stairlifts are built to last and come with warranties, ensuring long-term functionality and reliability. They are an investment in accessibility and safety, particularly for those with long-term mobility needs.

In short, curved stairlifts offer personalized solutions to more complex staircases, enhancing safety, convenience, and comfort for individuals with mobility challenges. Thus, it is a wise investment to regain your mobility & independence around the house by getting Curved Stairlift from Savaria/ Handicare. Call Cairo Contracting today and book your free home assessment to book your order! 

Curved stairlifts offer several benefits, particularly for people with mobility challenges or those who want to improve accessibility in their home. Here are some key advantages:

Curved Stairlift – Customization, Comfort & Costing

  1. Customizable to Unique Staircases: Unlike straight stairlifts, which only work on straight staircases, curved stairlifts are designed to fit the specific shape and curve of your stairs. Whether you have a spiral staircase, a landing, or a winding staircase, a curved stairlift can be tailored to follow those contours.
  2. Space-Saving: Since curved stairlifts are custom-designed, they can be made to fit snugly against your stairs without taking up much space. This means you don’t lose too much room in your hallway or stairwell.
  3. Enhanced Safety: Curved stairlifts are equipped with features like safety sensors that prevent accidents (such as the lift stopping if there’s an obstruction in the way). They also have secure armrests, seat belts, and sturdy footrests to ensure a smooth ride.
  4. Independence and Comfort: For individuals with limited mobility, a curved stairlift allows them to remain in their homes and move between levels with ease, maintaining independence. The seat is designed to be comfortable, and the lift operates smoothly, ensuring a stress-free experience.
  5. Aesthetic Integration: Because curved stairlifts are made to measure, they can blend in with your home’s decor better than a standard stairlift. The tracks can be installed in a way that’s discreet, and the seats can be chosen to match your interior design.
  6. Increases Property Value: Adding a curved stairlift can improve the accessibility of your home, which can be appealing if you plan to sell your home in the future. Homes with accessible features may attract more buyers, especially those with mobility issues.
  7. Durability and Reliability: High-quality curved stairlifts are made with durable materials and can last for many years with minimal maintenance. They are built to handle the unique challenges posed by curved stairs, ensuring they perform reliably over time.
  8. Retaining Family Life: With a curved stairlift, individuals with mobility impairments can continue to participate in family activities, moving freely between floors. This helps them stay connected to family life and prevents them from feeling isolated.

Curved stairlifts generally cost more than straight stairlifts for a few key reasons:

  1. Custom Design and Installation: Curved stairlifts need to be custom-built to fit the specific shape and dimensions of your staircase. Each curve or turn requires a unique track and motor system, which adds to the manufacturing and installation costs. Straight stairlifts, on the other hand, use standard tracks and designs that are easier and faster to install.
  2. Complex Engineering: The mechanism for curved stairlifts involves more sophisticated engineering. They have to be designed to handle curves, landings, and often tighter spaces, requiring more advanced technology and parts.
  3. Longer Manufacturing Time: Creating a custom curved track and ensuring that it works smoothly can take longer than producing a standard straight track, which increases labor and production time.
  4. More Expensive Parts: The components used in curved stairlifts—like the track, motors, and gears—tend to be more expensive because they need to be more durable and precise to accommodate the complexity of the curves.
  5. Greater Installation Complexity: Installing a curved stairlift is more labor-intensive, often requiring multiple visits from professionals to ensure everything fits perfectly and operates smoothly.

Overall, the level of customization, engineering complexity, and installation work involved in curved stairlifts makes them more expensive than straight stairlifts.