When purchasing a stair lift for a wheelchair bound elderly or disabled loved one, take time to select just the right lift for your home. You will need to answer two 
Will the stair lift be in an indoor or outdoor location?
Initially this may seem an easy question to answer, but after you consider a few things, it may be more challenging. Curved or custom stair lifts are significantly more expensive than straight stair lifts. If your indoor stair location requires that you install a curved or custom stair lift, you might consider locating the lift out-of-doors on a stair that is straight. The Bruno Electra-Ride Straight Rail Stair Lifts are available in four models, one outdoor and three indoor models. These install easily and quickly, indoors or out.
Will you need a curved or straight stair lift?
Straight stairs have a regular rise and run pattern that goes straight up from one level to the next. If you have any of the following situations, you will require a curved (or custom) stair lift:
- Switchback stairs: A stair that goes up 6 or 7 risers to a landing, then goes up another 6 or 7 steps to the next level.
- Curved stairs: A stair that curves in a fixed radial pattern.
- Irregular straight stairs: A straight stair that has one long step in the middle, or shifts in one direction part way up the stair. If your straight stair has significantly irregular step dimensions, you may require a custom lift.
Be cautious when shopping for stair lifts, and do research the manufacturers and models. There are many popular brands which vary in stair lift quality, capacity ratings, availability, warranties, dependability, and ease of servicing.
For information about stair lift selection and ordering, contact the experts at Stair Lifts Atlanta/Atlanta Home Mods. We will visit your home, evaluate your situation, and provide pricing and availability information. We assist you in making the best decision for you, your home and your loved ones. We specialize in disability equipment; stair lifts, platform lifts and residential elevators; and assistive technology.
The Stair Lifts Atlanta representative is fully certified by the State of Georgia, as required by law. For more information, contact us at 770.880.3405.
Read PART 2 of this series.