Stairlifts Cardiff

A stair lift (stairlift) is a mechanical device for transporting people, typically those with disabilities or limited mobility, up and down a staircase. If a staircase is wide enough, then a stairlift can be fitted. A stairlift rail is connected by brackets and screwed in place to the treads of the stairs (not the wall). The treads of most residential properties are wooden, but stairlift rails can be installed to concrete treads, which are mostly found in maisonettes, flats and on outdoor steps. 

Stairlifts typically consist of a chair or platform that is attached to a track that is mounted to the stairs. The user sits in the chair or stands on the platform and controls the movement of the lift using a joystick or a hand-held remote control.

The chair base houses a motor which rotates a cog which moves along, up and down, a toothed rail inside the stairlift rail – this system is known as a rack and pinion system.

Stairlifts are typically used in homes, but they can also be found in public buildings such as libraries, schools, and churches. They are often used by people who have difficulty climbing stairs due to age, disability, or injury. Stairlifts can be an important aid for people who want to remain independent and live in their own homes despite mobility challenges.

There are several different types of stairlifts available, including straight stairlifts, curved stairlifts, and outdoor stairlifts. Straight stairlifts are designed for use on straight staircases, while curved stairlifts are designed for use on staircases that have turns or bends. Outdoor stairlifts are designed to be used outside, and they are typically made of weather-resistant materials.

Stairlifts can be powered by electricity or by a battery, and they can be installed on most types of stairs. Many stairlifts also come with features such as folding chairs or platforms, safety belts, and remote controls to make them easier and safer to use. If you are considering purchasing a stairlift, it is important to carefully research the different types of stairlifts available and choose one that is appropriate for your needs and your budget.

A stairlift chair is operated by two methods. A seat toggle switch and remote control.

The toggle switch is located on the chairlift arm. Once the user is sitting safely and comfortably, they can apply slight pressure to the toggle to take them in their chosen direction – up or down the stairs.

Operating a stairlift typically involves the following steps:

1. Sit on the seat and make sure you are comfortable and secure.
2. Fasten any safety belts or restraints that are provided.
3. If the stairlift has armrests, make sure they are in the down position.
4. Use the control panel or joystick to move the stairlift. The control panel or joystick is usually located within easy reach on the armrest or near the seat.
5. To move the stairlift up the stairs, press the up arrow or the appropriate button on the control panel. To move the stairlift down the stairs, press the down arrow or the appropriate button on the control panel.
6. When the stairlift reaches the top or bottom of the stairs, it will stop automatically.
7. To exit the stairlift, press the stop button or flip the switch on the control panel. This will bring the stairlift to a stop. Once the stairlift is stopped, use the armrests to help you stand up.
8. Walk off the stairlift carefully and make sure the seat is empty before sending the stairlift back down the stairs.

It is important to carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions for operating your particular model of stairlift. If you have any questions or concerns about using a stairlift, you should consult the manufacturer or a trained professional.

Remote controls usually come in pairs and are located near the top and bottom of the staircase. The remotes can be used to send the stairlift chair back up or down the stairs out of the way – to keep the hallway or landing clear when the stairlift isn’t needed. The remote control can alo be used by when extra assistance is required. The user can be placed safely in the chair, and a family member or carer can call the stairlift chair to them by using the remote. The user can then be helped out of the chair.

Stairlifts can generally be fitted to most types of stairs, but there are some factors to consider. Some types of stairs may be more challenging to install a stairlift on, such as those that are very narrow or winding, or those with a particularly steep incline. It may also be more difficult to install a stairlift on stairs with landings or curves, or on stairs made of materials other than wood or concrete.

It is important to have a professional assess your stairs to determine if a stairlift can be safely installed. The manufacturer of the stairlift should be able to provide information about the types of stairs that their product can be installed on.

In general, straight stairs are the easiest to install a stairlift on, and curved stairs are the most challenging. If you have any concerns about whether a stairlift can be installed on your stairs, it is a good idea to consult with a professional to determine the best solution for your needs. 

As long as the staircase is wide enough, straight or curved, then it should be able to accommodate a stairlift.

Most stairlifts have an arrangement where the chair and user travel at 90° to the stairlift rail, these types of stairlifts may be unsuitable for narrow stairs as the user may knock their knees against the staircase newels and spindles.

We supply the Flow X stairlift. This lift has the option of being fitted with advanced swivel and levelling technology (ASL). This unique feature enables the stairlift to rotate and travel at 45° to the stairlift rail, which means it can be fitted to narrow staircases when most stairlifts can’t. The user will stay perfectly level while on the stairlift chair, remaining in the safest and most comfortable position.

Contact us for more information.

Or access our download page to download one of our stairlift brochures.

Yes, some stairlifts are designed to go around corners. These are known as curved stairlifts and are custom-made to fit the specific dimensions and layout of a staircase that has turns or curves.

Curved stairlifts typically have a longer lead time for manufacturing and installation compared to straight stairlifts, as they are more complex to design and install. They also tend to be more expensive than straight stairlifts.

If you have a staircase with turns or curves, it is important to measure and assess the dimensions of your staircase carefully before purchasing a stairlift. A professional stairlift dealer or installer can help you determine the best type of stairlift for your needs and provide a quote for the cost of installation.

 We supply two types of lift that can navigate the following types of staircases:

• Straight
• L-Shaped
• Winder
• U-Shaped
• Spiral
• Curved

Contact us for more information.

Or access our download page to download one of our stairlift brochures.

The cost of a stairlift in the UK can vary significantly depending on a number of factors, including the type of stairlift, the length and complexity of the staircase, and any additional features or customization that you may need.

On average, straight stairlifts in the UK cost between £1,500 and £3,000, while curved stairlifts can cost between £5,000 and £10,000 or more. Some additional factors that may affect the cost of a stairlift include:

• The type of drive system: Stairlifts can use a variety of drive systems, including rack and pinion, chain, and cable. Rack and pinion drive systems tend to be more expensive than chain or cable drives.
• The type of power source: Stairlifts can be powered by electricity or battery. Battery-powered stairlifts tend to be more expensive than electric-powered stairlifts, but they may be a good choice for homes with power outages or for people who want a more reliable power source.
• The type of seat: Some stairlifts come with seats that are more comfortable or have additional features such as heaters or massagers. These features can add to the cost of the stairlift.
• The type of control: Stairlifts can be controlled by a variety of methods, including hand controls, foot controls, or joystick controls. Hand and foot controls are typically less expensive than joystick controls.

Stairlifts are cheaper than home lifts, our brand new stairlift typically range from £1,350 – £7,000 depending on the type of stairlift (straight or curved), brand, style and the level of automation.  Our straight stairlifts start from £1,350. Our curved stairlifts start at just over £4,000.

Contact your local authority, as you may be eligible for grant funding.

Installing a straight stairlift typically involves the following steps:

1. Measurements and assessment: A professional will visit your home to take measurements of your staircase and assess whether a straight stairlift is suitable for your needs and the layout of your home.
2. Preparation: The installation team will prepare the staircase for the stairlift by attaching a rail to the stairs. The rail is custom-made to fit the specific measurements of your staircase.
3. Installation: The stairlift itself is then attached to the rail using bolts and other hardware. The installation team will ensure that the stairlift is securely attached and that it moves smoothly along the rail.
4. Testing and commissioning: Once the stairlift is installed, the installation team will test it to ensure that it is working properly and that all safety features are functioning as they should.
5. Training: The team will provide training on how to use the stairlift safely and how to perform basic maintenance tasks.

It is important to note that the installation process may vary depending on the specific model of stairlift and the layout of your home. It is recommended to hire a professional team to install your stairlift to ensure that it is installed correctly and safely.

Yes, stairlifts require maintenance to ensure they are operating safely and reliably. Stairlifts are mechanical devices with a number of moving parts, and like any other mechanical device, they can wear out or become damaged over time. Regular maintenance is necessary to identify and address any potential issues, and to ensure the lift is operating efficiently.

Some common maintenance tasks for stairlifts include cleaning the lift to remove dirt and debris, lubricating the moving parts to ensure smooth operation, and inspecting the lift for any wear or damage. It is also important to test the lift regularly to ensure it is functioning correctly, and to have the lift serviced by a qualified technician on a regular basis to identify and address any potential issues.

Overall, proper maintenance of a stairlift is essential to ensure it is operating safely and reliably, and to extend its lifespan. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance and to have the lift inspected and serviced by a qualified technician on a regular basis.

There are a number of steps that can be taken to ensure a stairlift continues to operate safely and reliably, including the following:

1. Regular cleaning: Stairlifts should be kept clean to prevent the build-up of dirt and debris, which can interfere with the proper functioning of the lift. This should include wiping down the rails and other parts of the lift with a damp cloth, as well as removing any debris that may have accumulated.
2. Lubrication: Stairlifts typically have a number of moving parts that require lubrication to function smoothly. This may include the rails, drive belt, and other mechanical components. It is important to use the correct lubricant, as specified in the manufacturer’s instructions, to ensure the lift is operating efficiently.
3. Testing: Stairlifts should be tested regularly to ensure they are functioning correctly. This may include testing the emergency stop button and other safety features, as well as checking the smoothness of the ride.
4. Inspections: Stairlifts should be inspected by a qualified technician on a regular basis to identify any potential issues and ensure they are addressed before they become a problem. This may include inspections of the rails, motor, and other mechanical components.
5. Maintenance: Any necessary maintenance or repairs should be carried out by a qualified technician, in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. This may include replacing worn or damaged parts, or carrying out routine maintenance tasks such as lubrication.

Overall, proper maintenance of a stairlift is essential to ensure it is operating safely and reliably, and to extend its lifespan. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance and to have the lift inspected and serviced by a qualified technician on a regular basis.

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