Despite the fact that stairlifts allow individuals to fully enjoy their properties, even if they are suffering from reduced mobility due to illness, injury or disability, one of the main reasons that people are put off investing in curved stairlifts is that they are generally considered one of the most expensive options on the market.
To give a little bit of context, there are two main types of stairlift – curved ones and straight ones – each one designed to fit a particular type of staircase. Most staircases are either straight up and down, or alternatively curved, so a different shaped device will fit each one of these perfectly.
As curved stairlifts have to be made according to the shape of the stairwell and the staircase in each home, this often requires a lengthy and more expensive process, whereas straight lifts can generally be fitted fairly rapidly and for a reduced cost. Furthermore, it is possible to install straight stairlifts on a curved staircase.
This is possible because the technicians working for the stairlift company can create a platform which basically stands at halfway up the staircase. This will allow two or more straight devices to be connected with each other so that the user can travel on the staircase with ease. Although two stairlifts are required, this can still be less expensive than curved stairlifts in some cases.
With this said, are curved stairlifts really worth the investment if there are less expensive alternatives? There are, in fact, some compelling reasons why they may actually be the better option, despite the fact that straight stairlifts may seem like less hassle to install and can be less costly.
One of the main reasons why having a curved device custom made and put into your property is that it can provide a much more pleasant experience than having two straight lifts placed together in your property. Instead of having to transfer between two lifts on a platform at the centre of the stairs, a curved lift ensures that you can travel up and down in one trip.
This can be very beneficial for those with very reduced mobility or who are very uneasy on their stairs. Although these curved devices are priced higher, this can be money well invested for having the assurance that one can travel up and down the stairs in one easy and very safe movement, without having to switch chairs or risk falling.
Another compelling reason why these devices are well worth the money is that they are custom fit to the staircase to ensure that movement of the chair up and down the stairs is as smooth, comfortable and safe as possible. Furthermore, this custom fitting ensures that they are aesthetically pleasing and do not take up more of the stairwell than they need to.
This can be a consideration where a straight lift simply will not fit a curved stairwell without blocking unnecessary space for individuals that will use the stairs normally. This can be the case in a residence where several people live, or in a home where only one individual needs to use the lift.
It should be also noted that not all curved stairlifts are expensive, as there are now many refurbished models on the market for those who do not want to pay outright for a brand new lift. In many cases it is possible to find one that is a good fit for your property despite the fact that it was custom made for another home, offering the same safety, comfort, practical and aesthetic benefits.
Whether a curved device is worth the investment or not all depends on your budget, the shape of your staircase and the precise requirements you will have of the device. If you need further guidance, it is strongly recommended that you talk to a reputable stairlift company, whose staff should be able to help point you in the direction of the ideal solution for you.