Regaining independence and mobility within your home can be a significant step towards enhancing your quality of life. Stairlifts, in particular, have become a popular choice for individuals facing challenges with stairs.
If you're considering installing a stairlift, it's natural to have questions or concerns about the installation process.
That's why we've put together this guide, to help you understand what to expect:
Initial Assessment and Staircase Survey
The first step in the stairlift installation process involves a thorough assessment of your home and staircase.
An experienced stairlift surveyor will visit your home to evaluate the layout, dimensions, and any potential obstacles (such as doors at the bottom of the staircase).
They'll also take this opportunity to discuss your specific needs and preferences, ensuring that the chosen stairlift model will meet with your needs now and into the future.
Customising Your Stairlift
Stairlifts are available in a variety of styles and configurations to suit individual needs and preferences.
During the assessment, you will have the opportunity to customise your stairlift, selecting from a range of options such as seat upholstery, color choices, control mechanisms, and additional features.
Whether you prefer a sleek and modern design or a more traditional look, there's a stairlift to complement your home décor.
Scheduling the Installation
Once you've chosen the perfect stairlift for you, an installation date will be scheduled at your convenience.
Typically, the installation process takes between two and four hours to complete. On the day of installation, an engineer will arrive at your home with the necessary equipment and expertise.
The Installation Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Preparing the Staircase: The engineer will begin by clearing the staircase of any obstructions, to ensure a smooth and safe installation process.
Track Installation: The track will be carefully attached to the treads of the stairs (never the wall), leaving as much room as possible for other stair users to walk alongside the track.
Mounting the Seat and Carriage: The seat and carriage, the components that transport the user up and down the stairs, will be securely mounted onto the rail.
Electrical Connections: The stairlift will be connected to a power source, typically a nearby socket, to ensure continuous charging (Don't fret - if there are no nearby sockets, the surveyor will have arranged for an electrician to attend to fit one).
Safety Checks and Final Touches: The engineer will conduct a series of thorough safety checks, ensuring the stairlift's stability and proper operation. They will also provide you with comprehensive instructions on how to safely use the stairlift.
Common Concerns and Frequently Asked Questions
Will the installation damage my staircase?
No, stairlifts are designed to be installed without causing any structural damage to your staircase.
The installation team will use brackets which are attached to the treads of the stairs, so there will be no damage to the bannister or walls surrounding the staircase or at the top/bottom of the stairs.
The support screws go through the carpet, which means the carpet does not need to be lifted and refitted, making the fitting process a lot easier.
The support screws also have a very small diameter, so won’t leave large, visible holes, however there may be some indentation from the weight of the stairlift.
How long will the installation take?
Straight stairlift installations typically take between two and four hours to complete, while curved stairlifts may require slightly more time due to the custom track design.
This includes teaching the user how to use, clean and maintain the equipment properly.
Will I need to clear out my staircase for the installation?
Yes, it is recommended to remove any obstructions from the staircase to provide ample workspace for the installation team.
This includes items such as plants, décor, or furniture that may hinder the process.
What happens if I have a power cut?
In the case of a short power cut there should be no problem at all, as your stairlift operates on batteries within the body of the unit which recharge when the stairlift reaches the charge points at either end of the track.
However, as with all batteries, they won’t last forever without being regularly topped up with power, so as soon as the power is restored, double check your stairlift is charging.
How do I clean and maintain my stairlift?
Regular cleaning and maintenance are important for ensuring the longevity and performance of your stairlift.
Clean your stairlift once a week with a damp cloth to remove any dust. Removing dust will guarantee the stairlift keeps running smoothly and nothing will get stuck.
Never use bleach or solvents when cleaning your stairlift. They can damage your equipment!
If you're considering a stairlift for yourself, or for a loved one, please do reach out with any questions you may have. You can reach us via our contact form.
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