It usually takes 2 to 3 hours to install a straight stairlift. If the lift is unusually sized or needs to be fitted to a curved stairway, the installation process may take longer. Most straight stairlifts fit directly onto the stairs themselves, rather than to the wall, so the installation process is quite straightforward.

The Size and Shape of Your Stairs Matter

While installing a standard-sized stairlift can be easy and straightforward, there are some things that may make the installation process more complex. With a narrower-than-average staircase, it may be necessary to remove any handrails and decorative moldings to ensure there’s enough space between the edge of the chair and the opposite wall for the stairlift to operate smoothly.

Straight stairlifts can be cut to size either before delivery or immediately before installation, and are quite easy to install. Stairlifts for rounded stairs are more complicated, and in some cases must be custom-made. This may mean the technician has to visit the property more than once to measure the stairs and check the runners will fit properly.

Stairlift Installation Shouldn’t Damage Home Decor

Installing a straight stairlift should not require doing any damage to the walls or carpets in the stairwell. The tracks are mounted above the stairs, and while they will need to be screwed into the floor, all this requires is some small screw holes that should not be noticeable after the stairlift is removed. The weight of the track may leave an indentation in the carpet from where the lift is mounted, but other than that the installation of a straight lift is non-damaging.

However, it is important to ensure the carpet is in good condition before the lift is installed. Loose threads could catch in the track, preventing the lift from moving or potentially damaging the mechanism.