Straight and Curved Stairlift Rail Devices

Straight Stairlifts vs. Curved Stairlifts

E J Stairlifts & Medical Supply is well-versed in straight and curved stairlift rail devices in Philadelphia, Delaware, and South Jersey. We provide an array of industry-leading models in both designs to accommodate diverse needs. Our professionals are here to help you determine which is best for your preferences, specifications, and homes in Philadelphia, Delaware, and South Jersey.

The Key Differences

When deciding between a straight stairlift or a curved stairlift, there are three key differences to be made aware of that will determine which stairlift is best for your needs, including:

• The rail shape of your home
• The landing of your staircase
• The installation timeline

The Rail Shape

The rail shape is the number one deciding factor for most customers, as anything beyond a straight staircase typically benefits from a curved stairlift. A curved stairlift is custom designed based on the specific measurements of the stairs, no matter how many turns or angles, to create a safe and efficient transportation device that allows for easy lateral access.

Straight Stairlift Top Landing Finish

Straight stairlift designs have a swivel chair that allows for the easy rotation that facilitates safe exit and entry from the stairlift at the landing of the stairs. Many models of straight stairlifts can be upgraded to a power-assisted swivel for automatic turn power when the chair reaches the landing.

Curved Stairlift Top Landing

If the landing of the home’s stairway is narrow or if the user requires assistance to use their stairlift, a straight stairlift will not be possible. Instead, a curved stairlift may be installed to accommodate the extra space needed at the landing of the stairs with an overrun to park the chair for safe exit and entry to the stairlift.

Installation Timeline

Straight stairlifts can be delivered and installed within a few days, offering a prompt solution for a residential stairlift. Curved stairlift rail devices are custom-tailored to the individual’s staircase, requiring specific measurements and extended manufacturing times, which result in four to five weeks of wait time before they are installed.

Stairlift Cost 

Straight and curved stairlifts are installed to fit the stairs and can be personalized with different features depending on the user’s preferences and needs. Straight stairlifts do not require in-depth customization and range from $3,000-$4,000. Curved stairlifts require much more manufacturing and labor and cost upward of $12,000.

What Straight Stairlifts Offer

A straight stairlift offers no bends, turns, or specialty landings at the top or bottom of the staircase. Straight stairlift features
include:

• Battery powered
• Foldable chair
• Prompt installation
• Weight capacity of up to 400lbs
• Construction-free installation
• Advanced safety features

What Curved Stairlifts Offer

Curved stairlifts offer customization to accommodate specialty rails that bend or turn at the same angle as your stairs, whether spiral, curved, or equipped with a landing mid-way through. These lifts include the features of a straight stairlift with the addition of the following:

• Customizable rail colors to accommodate varying home designs
• Upholstery options for added personalization

Determining Which Is Best for Your Home

Determining whether a straight or curved stairlift is best for your home will come down to the type of staircase you have and your budget. However, while installing two straight stairlifts on a curved staircase is possible, the safety of a curved stairlift is far greater.

Consult With Us for Your Perfect Stairlift Today

If you want to add a straight or curved stairlift to your home, E J Stairlifts & Medical Supply is here to make the process as hassle-free as possible with our wide range of high-quality stairlift models. Consult with us today to learn more about stairlift installation and the stairlift options available to you.