Types of Stairlift
The type of stairlift you need is determined by your staircase, not personal preference. In the UK, there are two main types: straight and curved. Here is what separates them, when each one makes sense, and where to dig deeper.
Straight Stairlifts
For staircases that run bottom-to-top in a single straight line with no turns. The most common type — cheaper, quicker to fit, and available reconditioned.
- Typical price
- £1,800–£5,500 new; from £595 reconditioned
- Installation
- 2–4 hours, often within a week of ordering
Curved Stairlifts
For staircases with any bend, turn, intermediate landing, or spiral. The rail is custom-manufactured to match your exact staircase shape.
- Typical price
- £3,800–£8,000 standard; £8,000–£12,000 complex
- Installation
- 4–8 hours install, 2–4 weeks lead time for custom rail