Do you have a staircase that curves, turns, or has dog legs? Then this is the page for you to learn more.
Do you have a Straight Staircase? Then follow the link to our Straight Staircase guide.
Curved stairs require thought and consideration prior to installing a curved stairlift. Choosing a curving stairlift from the range of brands can be overwhelming; however, we aim to assist you in making the right choice based on your situation and requirements.
In a hurry? Here’s what you need to know.
- Price: Our curved stairlifts range from £? (£? reconditioned) to about £? depending on the brand and optional extras.
- Time to install: We can usually have it fitted within 2 to 3 days, sometimes the next day if it’s in stock.
- Ease of use: We have lifts with automation features, comfier seats, and smooth rides.
- Peace of mind: Each manufacturer provides a 12-month warranty. Then, after that, we have service plans to suit your budget.
Choosing a curved stairlift
Here are some considerations before choosing a curved stairlift for your home.
Cost, usability, safety, and comfort.
For an unbiased opinion of which aspects of a stairlift will suit your physical needs, an occupational health assessment will guide you. However, our team are also experienced in selecting compatible stairlifts. Our suppliers train our team to be fully competent in all aspects of use and installation. Safety sensors and seatbelts ensure safety whilst using the stair lift. Optional extras such as softer seats or controls for limited dexterity can improve comfort. Our get wise guide to buying a stairlift is an excellent place to start. Plus, our Grants page can help you find funding.
The purpose of a curved stairlift is to provide a smooth and efficient way of negotiating a staircase that curves, turns, or dog legs during its rise between floors or multiple floors. There is a chair on which you sit and operate a control which moves you along the staircase. They are energy efficient and therefore friendly on the wallet. If you choose one of our stairlifts in stock, we can often fit it within 24hrs; the installation is a couple of hours.
Features Of a Stairlift
Stairlifts comprise many different components. Here is a breakdown of the components of a stairlift:
- Rail- in the case of a curved stairlift, this is curved to the shape of the staircase.
- Power source
- Seat
- Footrest
- Motor
- Transmission
- Controls
How do you fit a curved stairlift?
An installation of a stairlift is relatively simple. The track or rail is fastened with brackets attached to the stair treads, so the wall is intact. The stairs’ banister and walls are not touched. The rail is away from the wall or balustrade to prevent accidental scrapes or scratches while the stairlift is in use. The rail, in the case of a curved stairlift, follows the line of the staircase as it rises. It is more of a bespoke solution.
Curved Stairlift installation
The diagrams below show how we can install a curved stairlift.
If you have a split staircase and can move between the two, installing two separate stairlifts could be cheaper than a curved stairlift.
Home Survey
It’s essential to get a home survey. Anglian Lifts offer a free home survey to assess you and the staircase and advise which curved stair lift solution would be best for you and the preferred way you’d like to use it.
The key things our team will consider when doing a survey are:
- Room to get on and off the stairlift at both ends of the run.
- Could the stairlift cause obstruction? The seat, armrests and footrest often fold to give more space when not used.
- Which side of the stairs should we fit the lift. Deciding on a left- or right-handed stair lift is important, as the reversal is difficult.
This survey will give essential information about choosing the right curved stairlift for your home. Our sales engineer will be able to advise which of the optional extras you will gain the most benefit from.
Peace of Mind Guarantee
A one-year manufacturer’s guarantee is on the full range of curved stairlifts we install. Before installation and use, we perform a rigorous safety check.
Our service and support
We are based across the Midlands and cover a large area, so we can usually get to your home. Our recommendation is an annual stairlift service to keep things moving smoothly. Our flexible range of service contracts will suit your budget.
Operating your lift
You should find your curved stairlift easy to operate; that is in the design for you. First, you lower the seat, armrests, and footrest. Then seat yourself on the seat and clip the seatbelt in place. You will need to hold a button until you finish your travel along the track. Once you arrive at your destination, unclip the seatbelt, alight from the seat and fold the arms, seat, and footrest back. Check out our stairlift owners’ guide for more information about operating and maintaining your stairlift.
How much do curved stairlifts cost?
You can find curved stairlifts for £? at the base cost; reconditioned units are often cheaper and start at £? If you want a heavy-duty version and add all the optional extras, you could be spending £?. The length of your stairs will determine the final price. Financing a stairlift can be eased with a grant. We can offer finance via Snap finance if you need other purchase or finance options [link to finance page]. We are working on a rental option—see the Stairlift Rental section.
Reconditioned stairlifts
A reconditioned stairlift is a cost-saving choice. We always thoroughly test our stock of reconditioned units before reselling. We recommend a new track as no two staircases are the same, and you will want the smoothest ride. A basic reconditioned lift with no extras starts from £?.
Curved Stairlift Rental
Currently, we do not have stairlifts to rent. As rental constitutes a consumer credit agreement, we are going through the FCA approval process. So if you want a rental option, then we can put you in touch with one of our FCA-approved partner companies. Always make sure an installation company is FCA approved to provide rental lifts. If not, they may be breaking the law.
Products: Compare the best curved stairlifts
We have selected some of the best for our range of curved stairlifts, though we will always choose the best curved stairlift for each situation. Here are some of these brands’ unique features, but please talk to us and discuss your options before settling on a particular stairlift.
Platinum Curve and Ultimate curved stairlifts
The Platinum range of curved stairlifts is an excellent choice for smaller compact staircases. Unlike some stairlifts, the powered swivel seat of the Platinum ultimate can turn towards the direction of travel. This forward-facing travel method is preferred by those who suffer from inner ear balance or vertigo problems. Step start is an option which allows the carriage of the stairlift to start on the first step, creating more space at the foot of the stairs.
Access BDD curved stairlifts
The Access BDD flow X is an industry leader in curved stairlifts. Flow 2 is also available from us. Both Access BDD curved stairlifts are compact and can operate in narrow staircases of 610mm and at inclines of 70°. The seat rotates to keep you in the same line of travel as you progress along the track.
Bespoke Stairlifts
The Bespoke infinity curved stairlift is unique in offering removable covers on its upholstery. Plus, they have a two-year warranty. A lever for the footrest saves you from bending to fold it.
Up by Devi stairlifts
The Up curved stairlift by Devi has a unique rail system and an unhanded lift. Smart enhancements include an app for your smartphone to operate your stairlift remotely. Along with an intercom within the armrest, allowing you to contact assistance from the service desk.
Curved stairlift features and options explained:
When choosing a curved stairlift, we think these are the essential features,
- Safety belt — All chair lifts are required by law to have a seatbelt
- Controls — Easy controls on the arm for people with limited dexterity
- Diagnostic display — Operational Status and fault codes are displayed
- Lockout switch — A nice safety feature to stop unauthorised use.
- Safety sensors — another safety feature mounted to the footrest and carriage to stop the lift in cases of obstructions
- Swivel seat — Manual and powered options
- Remote control — handy for calling the lift if it is at the other end of the track.
- Slimline design —Essential for tight spaces, folding arms, footrest, and seat.
Typical curved stairlift options
- Powered footrest/ works with the Seat —operating the footrest with the seat means you will not need to bend down.
- Power swivel seat — This allows you to get on and off the seat and, in some cases, lets you travel facing the staircase.
- Upholstery colours- Choose colours to suit your décor.
- Step start- see Platinum range.
- Heavy Duty- stairlifts will carry up to 120kg; above this limit, you will need the heavy-duty option.
Benefits of a curved stairlift
Curved stairlifts can fit most staircases, even those previously considered unsuitable for a stairlift.
Delivery and installation are quick and with minimum fuss. You could have your curved stairlift in under a week.
You can easily travel the whole length of your staircase, even with landings between flights.
It takes less space than you think.
Curved stairlift rails are narrower than you may imagine. The slim design allows others to use the staircase comfortably.
Summary
Having a curved stairlift fitted in your home is a cost-effective way of accessing your upper floors. The installation is swift and with minimal disruption to your staircase. Options are available to make the stairlift as comfortable and unobtrusive as possible. If you are struggling with the stairs, this could be your solution.
To find out more about how a stairlift will work for your home, feel free to contact us. To arrange a no-obligation free home survey, please call 01733 971975. Alternatively, you can download stairlift brochures on the appropriate brand pages or request them from us.
