What is a stair lift?

Types of stair lifts

Industry experts point to three types of stair lifts: straight, curved and outdoor.

Straight stair lifts are for staircases without turns. “(They’re) typically the most affordable and quickest to install,” Mike Peck, vice president of installation at Leaf Home, said. Most models carry between 275 and 600 pounds. Installation time averages one to two hours.

Curved stair lifts fit staircases with landings, curves and turns. “(These) are (custom-made) to meet (your) staircase’s shape,” Alison Starkey, a certified aging-in-place specialist and owner of home therapy concierge provider Gaitway of Charlotte, pointed out. The personalized approach requires detailed measurements and takes four to six weeks from order to installation.

Outdoor stair lifts offer weather-resistant versions of straight and curved stair lifts for exterior use. These help you navigate stairs leading to porches or decks. Rebecca Smith, marketing assistant at Stannah Stairlifts, explains that manufacturers build them with weatherproofing materials and UV-resistant plastics to protect against moisture and sun damage.

Pro tip

Outdoor options may be limited for complex staircases. “Although outdoor straight stair lifts are common, very few manufacturers make outdoor curved models,” Smith said. If you have curved outdoor stairs, start your search early and expect fewer choices and potentially higher prices.

» COMPARE: Best stair lifts

How stair lifts work

Stair lifts use a straightforward mechanical system to carry you safely between floors. You can expect them to have these key components:

• Seat with a safety belt or harness
• Rack and pinion gear system
• Toothed rail track
• Battery backup system
• Load and obstruction sensors
• Powered footrest (on most models)

“Stair lifts operate on a rack and pinion system, which uses gears that look (like) clock cogs,” Smith explained. The rail features a toothed track that connects with a spinning pinion gear in the chair's motor, moving the seat along the staircase.

The system runs on household electricity but includes backup power for emergencies. “(Batteries) often (hold) enough power for up to 60 cycles in the event of a power outage,” Starkey said. This means you won’t get stranded upstairs during a blackout.

Built-in safety sensors protect users and others (e.g., children or pets who might cross the path) from accidents. For example, “load sensors prevent movement if no one is sitting in the stair lift seat,” Smith noted. And obstruction sensors halt the stair lift when they notice objects blocking the path.

Finally, convenience features improve usability for people with mobility issues. “(Powered footrests operate) by the push of a button from the armrest, (allowing you to) easily and safely fold (them) when not in use,” Smith highlighted. This eliminates dangerous bending or balancing at the top of stairs.

Cost of stair lifts

Stair lift costs vary. Straight models run between $2,000 and $8,000, depending on the brand and your chosen features. Custom curved versions cost $10,000 to $15,000, and outdoor units range from $4,000 to $10,000. The following factors influence your final cost:

• Length and complexity of your staircase
• Customization options (e.g., powered swivel seats, upholstery choices)
• Weight capacity requirements
• Installation fees (some companies charge, while others don’t)
• Brand and model selected
• Indoor versus outdoor-rated materials

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How to save money on a stair lift

Budget-conscious buyers have several money-saving options beyond buying new. As long as you buy from a reputable company, “refurbished or reconditioned stair lifts are a safe and economical alternative,” Smith emphasized. She discourages buying from private parties. “You risk a stair lift (not working) properly, not (fitting) your stairs and costly repairs,” she warned.

Renting is promising if you’re on a tight budget or have temporary needs, such as post-surgery recovery. You might also consider this if you’re unsure about long-term commitment. However, “with long-term use, a stair lift purchase pays for itself quickly,” Smith said.

Insurance and assistance programs can offset costs if you qualify. Starkey noted that the Veteran’s Administration (VA) offers coverage for certain manufacturers with justification and approval, while Medicaid coverage varies by state. She advises seeking grants from local nonprofits or national advocacy groups such as the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Installation process

Stair lift professionals agree that DIY installation is risky — it could cause personal injury or damage to your home. “(Have) a certified installer from a licensed dealer (install your) stair lift,” Starkey stressed. “(It’s) not an easy task … and because of safety concerns, you should (verify) a dealer’s credentials before engaging them.”

Installation timing differs based on which type of stair lift you choose. “For a straight stair lift, it can take 60 to 90 minutes,” Starkey noted. A curved stair lift takes longer to install — a custom-fabricated rail can take four to six hours. This difference reflects the complexity of measuring and fitting curved rails to unique staircase shapes.

No matter how long the installation takes, the process requires only minor changes to your home’s structure. Installers attach the rail to the stairs, so there’s no wall damage. You can expect light drilling to secure the lift without requiring carpet removal.

On installation day, you and your family don’t have to be present. However, Starkey suggests having a caregiver nearby in case questions arise. Once finished, the installer will train users and caregivers on proper lift operation. This training session covers operation basics and reviews the owner’s manual.

Safety features

Stair lifts include several safety features, according to the experts we interviewed:

• A seat belt is standard on all models to secure users during transport.
• Obstruction sensors automatically stop the lift if they detect objects or people in the path.
• Key locks prevent unauthorized use — especially vital in homes with children.
• Backup batteries maintain lift function during electrical outages for as many as 60 trips.
• Overspeed governors deploy if the lift slips to prevent it from falling down the rail.
• Load sensors prevent operation if no one is sitting in the seat.

Maintenance tips

Homeowners appreciate that stair lifts need minimal maintenance to operate reliably for years. “Plan on (a) maintenance appointment once (annually),” Smith advised. Consistent servicing prevents urgent repairs and extends the system’s life span.

Most manufacturers provide specific maintenance schedules and requirements in the owner’s manual. Beyond professional maintenance, simple habits keep your stair lift running well:

• Wipe rails weekly to prevent dust and debris buildup.
• Park the lift at its charging point when not in use.
• Follow the manufacturer's lubrication requirements, if applicable.
• Use the lift only as instructed in the owner’s manual.
• Keep the staircase clear of obstacles.
• Report odd sounds or performance issues immediately.