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!