If you're considering a stairlift for yourself or a family member, one of the first questions you're likely to ask is: how much does a stairlift cost?
There isn't one fixed answer. Stairlift prices vary depending on the staircase, the type of stairlift required, the features you need and whether you choose a new or reconditioned model.
At EverRise Mobility, we supply and install stairlifts throughout Wigan and the surrounding areas. With more than 15 years' experience in the mobility industry, we know that choosing a stairlift isn't simply about finding the lowest price — it's about finding the right solution for the person, the staircase and the home.
Straight stairlifts — usually the most affordable option
If your staircase travels in a straight line from the bottom to the top without bends or intermediate landings, a straight stairlift will normally be the simplest and most economical option.
Straight stairlifts use a straight rail which can usually be cut to suit the length of the staircase. Because the rail doesn't need to be individually manufactured around bends and corners, installation is generally more straightforward than with a curved stairlift.
The final cost can still vary depending on the model and any additional features required — such as powered folding footrests, powered swivel seats, or a hinged rail where space is restricted at the bottom of the staircase.
Not sure whether you need a straight or curved stairlift? Read our guide to straight vs curved stairlifts.
What if there's a doorway at the bottom of the stairs?
Having a doorway or walkway close to the bottom of your staircase doesn't necessarily prevent you from having a stairlift. In some installations, a hinged rail can be used so that the lower section of the stairlift rail can be moved out of the way when the lift isn't in use.
A good example is this Brooks 130 straight stairlift installed by EverRise Mobility in Orrell, Wigan. A powered hinge was fitted to help keep the area at the bottom of the staircase clear.
You can see more examples of stairlifts we've fitted locally in our Projects section.
Why do curved stairlifts cost more?
If your staircase turns a corner, travels around a landing or changes direction, you may require a curved stairlift. The main difference is the rail — rather than using a standard straight rail, the rail for a curved stairlift has to follow the individual shape of the staircase.
The number of bends, the length and shape of the stairs and where the rail needs to start and finish can all affect the final specification and price. This is why an accurate home survey is particularly important when considering a curved stairlift.
For a full explanation of the differences between straight and curved stairlifts, see our guide to straight vs curved stairlifts.
A real curved stairlift installation in Wigan
A good example is this Handicare 4000 twin rail curved stairlift installed by EverRise Mobility in Swinley, Wigan. The staircase required the rail to curve around the bottom newel post, follow the staircase and then curve around the top newel post onto the landing.
Although a curved stairlift will generally cost more than a straight stairlift, every staircase is different. A home survey allows us to assess what's actually required and provide an accurate quotation. You can see more photographs and details of this installation in our Projects section.
New or reconditioned stairlift — which is better value?
Another factor affecting the price is whether you choose a new or reconditioned stairlift. A new stairlift gives you completely new equipment together with the appropriate manufacturer's warranty and provides the greatest choice of models and optional features.
A professionally reconditioned stairlift can provide a more economical alternative where suitable. There's no universal answer as to which is best — the right option depends on your staircase, requirements, budget and the equipment available at the time.
At EverRise Mobility, our approach is to explain the suitable options so you can make an informed decision rather than simply recommending the most expensive solution.
What else can affect the price of a stairlift?
There are several factors that can influence the final quotation:
- Whether the staircase is straight or curved
- The length and shape of the staircase
- New or reconditioned equipment
- Powered swivel seat options
- Powered folding footrests
- Hinged or powered hinged rails
- The user's individual requirements
- Any unusual features of the staircase or surrounding area
This is why prices advertised online should generally be treated as a guide rather than a quotation for your particular home.
Does having a stairlift installed require building work?
In most homes, a stairlift is fixed to the staircase rather than the wall. This means major building work is not normally required. The stairlift rail is secured to the stair treads using purpose-designed brackets, so installation is usually far less disruptive than people initially expect.
A home survey also gives us an opportunity to identify things such as doorways, radiators, bannisters and other potential obstructions before recommending a particular solution.
Can a stairlift be fitted to a narrow staircase?
In many cases, yes. Modern stairlifts are designed to fold away when they're not being used, helping to leave as much of the staircase available as possible for other people in the home. Whether a particular staircase is suitable depends on factors such as its width, angle, surrounding space and the requirements of the person using the stairlift.
Rather than trying to determine suitability from measurements alone, we recommend having the staircase properly assessed.
How quickly can a stairlift be installed?
This depends largely on the type of stairlift required and equipment availability. A straight stairlift can often be supplied more quickly because the rail does not need to be individually manufactured around the shape of the staircase. A curved stairlift requires a rail configured for the particular staircase, so the process can take longer.
If a stairlift is needed urgently, tell us when you enquire. We can explain which options are available and what may be achievable.
Don't consider the purchase price alone
Price is obviously important, but it's worth considering what happens after your stairlift has been installed. A stairlift may become something you rely on several times every day. Access to dependable servicing, repairs and aftercare should therefore be part of your decision when choosing a stairlift company.
Ask what warranty is included, what happens if the stairlift develops a fault and whether the company can provide ongoing stairlift servicing and repairs. A slightly cheaper initial quotation isn't necessarily better value if support is difficult to obtain later.
Why choose a local stairlift company?
Choosing a local independent company means dealing with somebody who is relatively close by not only when the stairlift is installed, but afterwards too. EverRise Mobility is a local independent mobility company serving Wigan and surrounding areas including Orrell, Standish, Leigh, Chorley and Warrington.
We have more than 15 years' experience within the mobility industry and work with established stairlift manufacturers including Brooks, Handicare and Acorn. As well as supplying and installing new and reconditioned stairlifts, we provide ongoing stairlift servicing and repairs.
Our aim is simple: to recommend a practical solution suited to your home, your requirements and your budget.
Looking for a stairlift in Wigan?
If you're considering a stairlift for yourself or a family member, getting some professional advice doesn't mean you have to make an immediate decision. We can assess your staircase, discuss the available options and provide a no-obligation quotation.
Whether you need a straight stairlift, curved stairlift, new or reconditioned model, or simply want some advice about what's possible in your home, EverRise Mobility is here to help. Contact us today to arrange a home survey or request a quotation.
