Choosing a Stairlift
TPG Disable Aids | Advice & Support
Stairlifts
Stairlifts can be fitted into most houses, but you will have less choice if you have a curved, spiral or unusually shaped staircase.
The design of your stairs
Straight Stairs: All manufacturers make lifts for straight stairs, so there are many models from which to choose.
Stairways with a brief turn at the top: You might feel able to get off the lift and walk up the last few steps, but you need to decide if you are likely to be able to go on doing this.
Curved Stairs: There are fewer models to choose from, these stairlifts being custom made and therefore more expensive.
The size of your stairs
Generally, stairlifts cannot be fitted to very steep or unusually narrow stairs; in most cases, an angle of between 40º and 52º is required and a minimum stair width of 75cm (30”). Consideration must also be given to the lift’s weight capacity as most will not exceed 25st. For those unable to bend their knees, as in a normal sitting position, a Stand and Perch stairlift may be the answer; also suitable for narrower stairs, reducing the danger of bumping your knees or feet. However, it is essential to ensure sufficient headroom is available to avoid possible head injury. Narrower stairways can also present problems for other household members during normal usage of the stairs.
Doorways
If there is a doorway close to the top or bottom of the stairs, or on a landing part of the way up, the stairlift will have to travel across it, effectively blocking the access. Obviously this presents a danger of tripping and even falling down the stairs. To overcome this problem a hinged rail can be installed as an option. These lift up and out of the way, either manually or electrically operated.
You
When assessing the premises for the fitting of a stairlift, it is equally important to consider the user, noting weight, height and any disability or health condition which may affect their ability to use the stairlift. The type of armrests, manual or power swivel seat, safety lap belts, can all help to ensure the correct stairlift is chosen to suit the client’s needs.
The top of your stairs
In most houses there is enough space at the top and bottom of the stairs for getting on and off the lift comfortably and safely. However, obstructions like radiators and furniture need to be considered and sometimes removed or relocated.
Comfort
Stairlifts need to be comfortable to sit on. If you have stiff limbs or difficulty bending your knees, a stand and perch lift, which has a small, high seat or ledge to give support during the ride, may be a suitable option.
An initial enquiry can be made by telephone, letter, email, or a visit to our showroom where you can try out our display models.
An appointment will be arranged for one of our friendly and fully trained advisers to visit your home, at a time convenient to you.
He or she will assess you and the premises, and all available options and details explained to you.
A written quote will subsequently be posted out to you advising cost and outlining any other work needed to be completed prior to installation.
The quote has a guaranteed period of 60 days, to allow you time for consideration and shopping around but, should you accept our quote and give us the go-ahead, a mutually suitable time and date will be arranged to complete the installation.
We also fit reconditioned units complete with 6 months warranty.
The independently produced British Healthcare Trades Association guide to buying health equipment safely can be found here: Get Wise to Buying Safety
The independently produced British Health Care Trades Associate guide Get Wise to buying a Stairlift can be found here: Get Wise to buying a Stairlift
Hire Stairlift Terms
Terms for hire of stairlifts are as follows:
On straight stairlifts only.
Delivery, installation and removal inclusive (when straight forward) £450.00
For any modification or extra work to stairs there will be an additional charge quoted.
Rental £40 per month invoiced at the end of each month in situ.
Prices may be zero rated for VAT with a signed declaration of disability.
The machine is the property of TPG DisableAids.
All service work and repairs are the responsibility of TPG DisableAids and may only be undertaken by ourselves.
We normally can fit within 10 days but can improve on this if the situation is urgent.
The machine must be kept in good condition with any fault being reported to enable us to correct it. There must be no alterations made by the hirer.
Damage caused by misuse will be charged.