Mobility and accessibility are an essential part of life, and are taken for granted by many people. However, some individuals find public buildings and facilities less accessible than others; for instance, wheelchair users and the elderly. To open up these kinds of places to everyone, it is well worth considering installing a stairlift where needed. However, to ensure the best value for money and most effective end results for your clients, customers or building users, you need to shop around. You want the best stairlifts prices without compromising on quality.
Many buildings, especially older ones, are only fitted with stairs and hence not wheelchair-accessible. However, stairlifts can transform these buildings, making them more accessible to those who must stay on their wheelchair’s seat.
There are many stairlift options to consider, including ones that can be fitted seamlessly, taking into account existing architectural features. With all the benefits that stairlifts can offer, they are a good investment. Sesame Access offers a wide variety of accessibility tools, at different stairlift prices depending on your budget and preferences.
Stairlifts For Public Spaces
The essential purpose of stairlifts is to help people with mobility problems to access areas that may otherwise be out of reach to them. People who are wheelchair-bound or those with heart problems, arthritis, or other conditions may find it difficult to mount and descend stairs to access higher floors in a building.
Stairlifts therefore make public spaces more accessible to a wider range of people. As an example, a commercial establishment will benefit from increased customer traffic if their premises are accessible to people with mobility issues.
While planning and designing new buildings with accessibility in mind from the outset is the ideal, older buildings that lack such mobility options can still be retrofitted with stairlifts to make them more accessible. Once installed, stairlifts do not require major renovations and will not significantly change the appearance of the building.
A stairlift is a device designed and constructed to carry people and wheelchairs up and down a staircase. You are probably most familiar with the type of stairlift that’s installed in a home – this makes higher floors more accessible to residents with various mobility issues, which increases their independence. By the same token, a stairlift can make a public building more accessible without significant modifications to the design, architecture, or structure of the building.
In private residences, stairlifts typically consist of a track attached to the wall or stair treads. A chair is then designed and fitted on which the user sits. At the touch of a button, the chair moves up or down the track, carrying the individual up or down the stairs with ease and in comfort.
Stairlifts for public spaces, however, necessarily differ from stairlifts for private residences in some respects, though the basic purpose is still the same. Depending on the way a public stairlift will be used, it may or may not be designed to look like one fitted into a private residence.
Stairlift Designs
Sesame Access offers stairlifts for both public and residential buildings. Our models operate on a rising platform stairlift design. The lift platform is kept in a pit under the floor. When the stairlift is turned on, the platform rises to the landing. It works much like an elevator, except for the fact that it only rises a few feet.
We also have designed stairlifts that can incorporate existing flights of stairs. The stairs will retract to make way for the platform once the lift is engaged. This not only saves space but also allows the platform to be located closer to the landing.
These stairlifts are easy to use and easy to incorporate into any building. Because the platform mechanism is hidden underground, the lift will not significantly change or impact on the appearance of the building or the area in which it’s installed.
We also have a variety of stairlift types to choose from, including horizontal retracting stairlifts, platform lifts, and more. These different stairlifts can accommodate wheelchair users or both wheelchair users and standing users. What’s more, we also aim to offer the most competitive stairlift prices in the UK while offering well-designed and well-constructed quality stairlifts that will enhance your reputation as well as your building, by providing safe access to all.
But are these stairlifts easy for anyone to use? They are a lot like using an elevator. Once the user approaches the lift, they can press the “Call for Assistance” button. A trained staff member will then turn the lift on and the user will be able to mount the platform. The user must engage wheelchair brakes while the lift is in motion. Once the platform has safely reached the upper or lower level, the user can then release the wheelchair’s brakes and move off the platform.
How Much are Stairlifts?
Stairlifts are cost-effective and a good investment for any space, whether that’s a residential or a public building.
The type of stairlift you choose, and therefore the cost, is largely a case of what is most suitable for the building or area in question; as well as factors such as the frequency of use. The best idea is to start discussions with a experienced stairlift company to see what they recommend for the space and the designs they have available for you to choose from. The company will advise you on what’s best suited for your building and the most efficient in providing improved accessibility to your various stakeholders.
Choosing the right design depends on several factors, such as the dimensions of the area in which the stairlift will be installed. There are even designs that can work well with listed buildings without spoiling the look or fabric of the building.
Because stairlifts are generally customised to fit a client’s needs, prices will vary from one solution to another. Once we’re consulted, our team will draw up a detailed quote that will cover the entire installation process so you won’t have to deal with any unexpected costs. We work closely with all clients to make sure that both the process and our fees are transparent.
Sesame Access Systems is one of the leading stairlift manufacturers for public and residential buildings. We installed our first stairlift in 1997 and have since installed stairlifts in over 200 buildings across the world. It’s worth stating that our very first stairlift, fitted in 1997, is still working perfectly to this day, a testament to the quality of our builds.
Get the best stairlift cost and pricing without sacrificing quality and craftsmanship. Make an appointment with us, choose the best design for your needs, and get your quote today. Call us on +44 (0)1784 440088 or fill in the contact form at https://www.sesameaccess.com/contact.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How much does a stairlift cost to be installed?
The chair lifts value cost, including installation, varies because every user has different specifications, and every home or public building has different staircase configurations. Don’t trust a provider who offers you a fixed quote before surveying your property; it's essential that all relevant parameters are discussed with the stairlift company beforehand so they can draw up a precise quote. The provider should ask to see the style of the staircase and assess any prospective user's ability to use a remote control, for instance.
How long do stairlifts last?
Typically, a stairlift will last for ten years or longer if kept in good condition. Some stairlift companies can promise an even longer lifespan, up to 25 years or more, provided the lift undergoes maintenance regularly. These companies use steel and other high-quality and long-lasting materials to build their stairlifts.
Can stairlifts be fitted to any stairs?
Stairlifts are flexible and can fit in almost all staircase designs. However, there are situations where installing stairlifts can be both challenging and costly. This arises due to factors like the size and type of the staircase, which can be curved or straight, and restraints that can adversely affect the installation.
Are stairlifts tax-exempt?
Stairlifts are not tax-exempt, but are zero-rated for VAT if the user is terminally ill, physically or mentally impaired, or suffers from a chronic disease. If the user is not disabled or has no chronic illness, but is aged 60 years old or above, they pay a lesser rate of 5% VAT compared to the standard 20%.
Can you get funding for your stairlift?
Yes, you can get funding for a stairlift. Some grants will cover part or even the full cost of a stairlift. To apply for such assistance, you will generally need to undertake suitability screenings by your doctor, local authorities, health and social workers and so on to ensure you qualify.
How much is a curved stairlift, compared to a straight stairlift?
Curved stairlift prices tend to be higher than the cost of straight ones. This is because a curved or spiral staircase, or one with a landing halfway up, will need a unique rail to fit the angle. Therefore, it takes more time and is more complex to install.
How much is a stairlift maintenance contract?
The stairlift price for a maintenance contract typically costs anything £250 annually, but can be cheaper if the contract covers a more extended period. You’re strongly advised to take out a maintenance contract for your stairlift after its warranty period ends to keep it in good condition and proper function, ensuring the user’s safety and satisfaction.
What are the different types of stairlifts?
There are different types of stairlifts designed to fit the variety of staircases available in homes. The most common ones are straight, curved, and outdoor stairlifts. Having said that, prices will vary, with outdoor and straight stairlifts prices coming in lower than the cost of curved ones.
How often should stairlifts be serviced?
British safety standards suggest having stairlifts serviced every six months by the provider, preferably the one who built and installed it. Most companies offer a 12-month warranty for each stairlift they install, including servicing six months after installation. During servicing, minor adjustments and repairs are made to ensure the stairlift is working as it should.
How much weight does a stairlift hold?
Domestic stairlifts tend to be safe with loads of 127kg to 158kg. In commercial or public settings, some stairlift providers use EU Machinery Directive-compliant scissor lift tables as the lifting actuators. These enable a stairlift to carry a load of 350kgs, or more by special request. Any stairlift designed to carry large weights must conform to the British Standard 6440:2011.
Buying And Installing A Stairlift
Before you acquire one, it is important to ascertain the stair lifts’ worth. The average price is around £3,200. However, the cost will vary depending on the type of stairlift required.
A stairlift for a single, straight flight of stairs is around £2,000, but one for a curved or spiral staircase in a home can have a stair lift device charge of to £7,000.
Next, you need to find a reputable stairlift provider. You can check out various companies’ showrooms or ask around your friends, colleagues or anyone you know who already has a stairlift installed in their home. Once you have chosen a provider, ask for an all-inclusive purchase and installation quote from them before you commit.
It’s also worth considering the amount of stair lifts needed. Depending on the structure of your building, you may need multiple stairlifts installed.
Evaluating The Best Stairlift Brands
You can evaluate stairlifts providers through:
Customer Reviews - You'll know if a provider has a good reputation through their clients' feedback.
Variety - Top providers offer various types of stairlifts to accommodate the many different staircase designs and the specific requirements of their users.
Specifications - Check what materials will be used and other factors that will guarantee you get a quality, safe product.
Warranty - If a provider only offers a short-term warranty, that could be an alarm bell that they don’t expect their stairlift to last for long. Look for a generous warranty.
Price - Make sure the stair gliders costs will fit your budget.
Guide To Getting A Stairlift In The UK
First of all, if you're planning on having a stairlift in your house, you should ask an expert to carry out a needs assessment. If the user is undergoing treatment for their condition, for instance, and expects their mobility to improve, acquiring a stairlift may not be the best decision. However, if it’s expected that mobility will not improve or will deteriorate, then a stairlift is likely to be a good option.
Ask an experienced company to assess your staircase design as you explore the different stairlifts out there on the market. Unsurprisingly, stairlifts are priced differently depending on their complexity, and you could be eligible for financial assistance depending on your circumstances.
Check out different companies selling stairlifts in the UK. Some offer the equipment on a rental basis, which may be more appropriate for your needs. If you want your stairlift insured, specialist companies offer this. You should also get in touch with your home insurance provider.
All About Stairlifts
Stairlifts are useful for people who are disabled and have chronic illnesses. However, they can cause inconvenience to the rest of the house occupants. Some stairlifts can occupy a great deal of space, making it difficult for others to use the stairs. Stairlifts with features like folding tracks, footplates, armrests and chairs can be installed to minimise the space taken up.
If the user has a wheelchair, there are specially designed wheelchair platform stairlifts instead. These lifts eliminate the hassle of users having to transfer from their chair to the stairlift. Alternatively, a through-floor lift can be used if there is insufficient space at the bottom and top of the stairs. These lifts, of course, occupy less stair space.
Platform Lifts Benefiting People
A platform stair lift provides a lot of benefits to its users, especially to those who are suffering from chronic diseases and disabilities. Here are some of the top ones:
Efficiency
A platform lift is energy-efficient and can lift any user of any weight without compromising speed and safety.
Safety
Platform lifts for disabled persons to move up and down stairs is much safer than them having to be carried.
Independence
A platform lift has controls allowing users operate it themselves thus giving them more independence in their homes.
Confidence
The safety features installed alongside platform lifts assure users of safety and stability.
If you want to reap the benefits of a quality stairlift for your property, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Sesame Access today. We offer some of the most clever solutions at the best stairlift prices in the UK.