Straight vs. Curved Stairlifts: Which Do You Need?
One of the first questions when shopping for a stairlift is whether you need a straight or curved model. This guide will help you understand the differences and determine which type is right for your staircase.
How to Tell Which Type You Need
The type of stairlift you need depends entirely on your staircase configuration. Here's a simple way to determine which type you need:
You Need a STRAIGHT Stairlift If:
- Your staircase goes directly from one floor to another without any turns
- There are no curves, bends, or landings in the middle
- The staircase may have a single landing at the top or bottom (but not mid-staircase)
You Need a CURVED Stairlift If:
- Your staircase has any turns or curves
- There's a landing in the middle of the staircase
- Your staircase is L-shaped, U-shaped, or spiral
- You need the stairlift to turn at the top or bottom to face away from the stairs
Straight Stairlifts Explained
Straight stairlifts are the most common and affordable type. They run on a straight rail that attaches directly to your stair treads (not the wall).
Advantages of Straight Stairlifts
- Lower cost: Typically $2,500-$5,000 installed
- Quick installation: Most installations take just 2-4 hours
- Same-day availability: Standard rails fit most straight staircases
- Easier to relocate: Can be moved to a different straight staircase
- Lower maintenance costs: Simpler mechanism with fewer parts
Limitations
- Only works on staircases with no turns or intermediate landings
- The rail extends slightly past the bottom stair (can be an issue in narrow hallways)
Curved Stairlifts Explained
Curved stairlifts are custom-manufactured to fit your specific staircase. Using precise measurements, a rail is created that follows every angle, curve, and turn of your stairs.
Advantages of Curved Stairlifts
- Fits any staircase: Custom-made for your exact configuration
- Can navigate multiple turns: Works with L-shaped, U-shaped, or spiral stairs
- Optional top/bottom parking: Can turn the rail to park in a convenient location
- Crosses landings: Can be designed to travel over intermediate landings
- Single-unit solution: No need to transfer between multiple lifts
Limitations
- Higher cost: $8,000-$15,000+ due to custom manufacturing
- Longer lead time: 4-6 weeks for custom rail production
- Not transferable: Made for one specific staircase
Cost Comparison
Straight Stairlift
$2,500 - $5,000
Fully installed
- ✓ Standard rail fits most straight stairs
- ✓ Installation in 2-4 hours
- ✓ Often available same-day
Curved Stairlift
$8,000 - $15,000+
Fully installed
- ✓ Custom-manufactured rail
- ✓ Fits any staircase shape
- ✓ 4-6 week production time
The significant price difference is due to the custom manufacturing required for curved rails. Each curved stairlift is essentially a one-of-a-kind product built specifically for your staircase.
What About Stairs with a Landing?
Stairs with landings can sometimes be tricky. Here are the options:
Landing at Top or Bottom Only
If your stairs are straight but have a landing at the very top or bottom (where the rail would park), a straight stairlift can often still work. The rail can extend onto or past the landing.
Intermediate Landing (Mid-Staircase)
If there's a flat landing in the middle of your staircase where the direction changes, you have two options:
- Curved stairlift: One unit travels the entire staircase, crossing the landing
- Two straight stairlifts: One for each straight section, with the user transferring at the landing
The curved option is more convenient but costs more. Two straight stairlifts may be more affordable but require the user to be able to walk across the landing.
The Installation Process
Straight Stairlift Installation
- Free in-home assessment and measurement
- Quote provided on the spot
- Installation scheduled (often same-day or next-day)
- Installation completed in 2-4 hours
- Training and demonstration provided
Curved Stairlift Installation
- Free in-home assessment
- Detailed measurements taken (often with digital scanning)
- Quote provided
- Custom rail manufactured (4-6 weeks)
- Installation completed in 4-6 hours
- Training and demonstration provided
Need Help Deciding?
The best way to know exactly what type of stairlift you need is to have a professional assess your staircase. At Sunshine Stairlifts, we offer free in-home consultations where we'll measure your stairs, explain your options, and provide a no-obligation quote.
Get Your Free Stairlift Assessment
We'll evaluate your staircase and recommend the best solution for your needs.