Not every staircase runs in a straight line. Many Central New York homes have stairs that turn at a landing, curve around a corner or split halfway up. A curved stair lift is built for exactly those staircases.
How a curved stair lift works
A stair lift is a motorized chair that travels along a rail fixed to the stair treads. On a straight staircase the rail is a standard length cut to fit. On a curved staircase the rail is made to measure, so it follows every bend and landing in one continuous run. You sit down, fasten the seat belt and press a control on the armrest, and the chair carries you smoothly to the top or bottom.
When you need a curved lift
- Your stairs have a landing with a turn
- Your staircase is curved or spiral
- You want the chair to park around the corner, away from the top or bottom of the stairs
- You want one lift to cover more than one flight
Curved or two straight lifts?
On stairs with a flat landing between two straight flights, two straight lifts can sometimes do the job. That can cost less, but you have to get up and move between chairs at the landing. A curved lift lets you ride the whole way without getting off, which matters if balance or standing is difficult.
What to expect
Because the rail is custom made, a curved lift starts with careful measurement of your staircase. It takes longer to build and costs more than a straight lift. Installation itself is usually quick once the rail arrives, and the rail attaches to the stairs, not the wall.
Features worth asking about
- A swivel seat, so you get on and off facing away from the stairs
- A folding seat, arms and footrest to keep the stairs clear
- Battery power, so the lift keeps working in a power cut
- Safety sensors that stop the chair if something is in the way
Find out what fits your stairs
Nationwide Lifts of Central New York installs stair lifts across Syracuse, Rochester, Utica and Binghamton. We will measure your staircase and explain which options suit it. Call (315) 849-2952 for a free consultation.