Deciding on stairlifts in Manchester is an important step towards keeping your independence at home. But before anything else, you need to know whether a straight or curved stairlift is right for your staircase. The two types serve different layouts, come at different price points and have different lead times. Below, we explain how each one works, what they cost and how to decide which suits your home.
What Is a Straight Stairlift?
A straight stairlift is designed for staircases that run in a single, uninterrupted line from bottom to top. There are no bends, turns or intermediate landings to navigate. Because the rail system is standardised, straight stairlifts are quicker to manufacture and simpler to install.
Here at A6 Mobility, we charge a fixed £1,595 for a brand new straight stairlift, including installation (correct at time of writing). No added, hidden or further costs. Every new straight stairlift also comes with a two-year warranty as standard, and all our stairlifts are made by quality British manufacturers.
What Is a Curved Stairlift?
A curved stairlift is built for staircases that have bends, corners, turns or intermediate landings. Because no two curved staircases are identical, the rail must be custom-built to follow the exact shape of your stairs. This bespoke manufacturing process means curved stairlifts take longer to produce and cost more than straight models.
How Do Installation Times Compare?
One of the biggest practical differences between the two types is how quickly they can be fitted.
Straight stairlift installation
Straight stairlifts are usually installed within four working days or less from the point of order. The standardised rail means there is no custom manufacturing involved, so the process from purchase to fitting is fast and straightforward. This makes them a particularly good choice if you need a stairlift sooner rather than later. We may even be able to fit a straight stairlift next day, depending on availability.
Curved stairlift installation
Curved stairlifts require a longer lead time. The manufacturing process takes two to three weeks, as the rail is precision-built to match every angle of your staircase. Once the rail is ready, installation itself is typically completed in a single day. While the wait is longer, the result is a stairlift that fits your stairs exactly as it should.
What About Cost?
Cost is naturally a key consideration. Straight stairlifts are the more budget-friendly option, with our fixed price of £1,595 covering the stairlift and full installation. Curved stairlifts start from £2,500 and can reach £7,000 for more complex staircase layouts. The higher cost reflects the bespoke design and manufacturing involved.
If budget is a concern, we also offer reconditioned stairlifts. Prices are lower, and each reconditioned unit comes with a comprehensive warranty, typically 12 months covering parts and labour depending on age and condition. Reconditioned stairlifts function to the same safety standards as new models, making them a reliable option at a lower price.
Which Type of Stairlift Do You Need?
The answer comes down to your staircase layout. Here are some simple guidelines:
Your staircase runs in a straight line with no bends or landings. A straight stairlift will suit you perfectly. It is quicker to install, more affordable and does the job without any unnecessary complexity.
Your staircase has one or more turns, corners or a half-landing. You will need a curved stairlift. A straight rail simply cannot follow bends safely, and attempting to adapt one would compromise both safety and performance.
Your staircase has an intermediate landing with straight flights on either side. While two separate straight stairlifts might seem like a cost-saving option, this only works if the user can safely transfer between the two units on the landing. If balance or strength is a concern, a single curved stairlift is the safer choice.
Do You Need a Survey First?
For straight stairlifts, the process is fairly simple because the rail dimensions are standard. However, we still recommend a home survey to ensure the stairlift is positioned correctly and safely.
For curved stairlifts, a professional survey is essential. Our team will visit your home, measure every angle and detail of your staircase, and use that information to manufacture a rail that fits precisely. We offer a free home survey to assess your needs and recommend the ideal stairlift solution for your home.
Find Your Ideal Stairlift at A6 Mobility Shop
Choosing the right stairlift should not feel overwhelming, and you certainly should not feel pressured into a decision. At A6 Mobility Shop, we have been helping people across Stockport, Manchester and Cheshire with their mobility needs since 1992. Our team has care, medical and mobility equipment experience, so the advice you receive is accurate and honest.
Our qualified in-house engineers handle everything from installation to servicing and repairs. Whether you are looking at a new stairlift, a reconditioned model or simply want to explore your options, visit our showroom or contact us on 0161 429 6000 to book your free home survey.
Pop in or call the team at A6 Mobility Shop.