Stairlifts Installation: How Long Does It Really Take?
At Multicare Mobility, we know that choosing a stairlift is a life-changing decision. It’s not just about moving up and down your stairs; it’s about regaining independence, confidence, and safety in your own home.
Installing a stairlift marks the beginning of a positive journey towards greater independence and safety, with support and reassurance provided every step of the way.
Understandably, one of the first questions you’ll want answered is:
“How long does it take for a stairlift installation?”
The good news is that stairlift installation is usually much quicker and easier than most people expect. In this guide, we’ll explain the full process of stairlift installation, from start to finish. We’ll walk you through how stairlifts are fitted on different staircases, introduce you to our trusted partner Platinum Stairlifts, and showcase the types of stairlifts we sell, including straight, curved, heavy duty, outdoor, and narrow models.
By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of how stairlift installation works and just how quickly you could be using yours.
What to Expect with Stairlift Installation
When you first enquire about a stairlift with us, the process begins with a friendly chat and a free home survey. Our trained experts will conduct a free home survey, assess your staircase, and advise you on the most suitable stairlift model and installation method based on your staircase's configuration. Once you’ve chosen your stairlift, installation day is straightforward and designed to minimise disruption.
Here’s what usually happens:
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Survey and Measurement: We take detailed measurements of your staircase, whether it’s straight, curved, or narrow.
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Custom Rail (for Curved Stairs): If your staircase has bends or landings, a bespoke rail is made to fit the exact shape of your stairs.
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Installation Day: Our engineers arrive, protect your flooring, and install the stairlift rail directly onto the steps (not the wall). The chair and motor unit are then fitted.
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Testing & Demonstration: We fully test the stairlift and show you how to use it with confidence. We never leave until you’re comfortable.
How Long Does Stairlift Installation Take?
The exact time depends on the type of stairlift and the design of your staircase. Here’s a breakdown of typical installation times:
In most cases, stairlifts can be installed in a matter of hours or days after the quotation is accepted.
Straight Stairlifts
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Timeframe: 2-4 hours
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Straight stairlifts are the simplest and quickest to fit. They are designed specifically for a straight staircase, ensuring a seamless fit and quick installation. Because the rail is a standard shape, installation is often completed in a morning or afternoon.
Curved Stairlifts
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Timeframe: 4-6 hours (installation), with a few weeks for the bespoke rail to be manufactured.
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Curved stairlifts are designed specifically for staircases with a curve or multiple curves. Curved staircases require specialised stairlifts that are custom-built to fit their unique bends and turns. Since every curved stairlift rail is custom-built, there’s a wait before installation. However, once the rail is ready, our engineers can install and test it in less than a day.
Narrow Stairlifts
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Timeframe: 3-5 hours
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Narrow staircases sometimes require adjustments or slimline seats. Installation still typically takes less than half a day.
Outdoor Stairlifts
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Timeframe: 3-4 hours
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Outdoor stairlifts are fitted to steps or slopes in gardens or driveways. They’re weatherproof, and installation is usually simple.
Heavy Duty Stairlifts
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Timeframe: 4-5 hours
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Designed for higher weight capacities, heavy duty stairlifts require a reinforced rail. Installation may take slightly longer, but still within one working day.
In summary, most stairlifts are fully installed and ready to use the very same day.
Stairlift Installation on Different Staircases
No two staircases are the same, which is why our engineers take the time to carefully plan your stairlift installation. Here’s how fitting works across different layouts:
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Straight Stairs: The simplest fit. The rail is placed directly on the treads of the stairs, not the wall, meaning minimal disruption.
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Curved Stairs: For staircases with bends, landings, or spirals, the rail is custom-manufactured to follow the exact contours of your staircase.
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Narrow Stairs: Slimline stairlifts and foldable seats ensure that even very tight staircases can accommodate a stairlift without blocking the way.
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Outdoor Steps: Special weatherproof stairlifts are installed on garden or driveway steps, complete with protective covers.
When installing a stairlift, the stairlift is securely attached to the stairs using supports and support screws. If your staircase has carpet, the support screws pass through the carpet, which may leave small holes or minor indentations, but these are minimal and can be easily repaired if the stairlift is removed. Care is taken to avoid stray threads or damage to the carpet during both installation and removal. This process ensures the stairlift fit is safe, unobtrusive, and does not compromise the structural integrity of your staircase or damage the walls surrounding the stairs.
Cost and Financing Options for Stairlift Installation
The stair lift installation cost can vary depending on several factors, including the type of stairlift you choose and the specific layout of your home. For example, a straight stairlift is typically more affordable and quicker to install, as it's designed for straight staircases without any bends or landings. In contrast, a curved stairlift is custom-built to fit staircases with corners, curves, or intermediate landings, which makes it more complex and generally more expensive.
If you're concerned about the cost, we offer a range of financing options to help make stairlifts accessible for everyone. Muticare Mobility offers flexible payment plans that allow you to spread the cost of your stair lift installation over several months or even years. For those with limited mobility who may only need a stairlift temporarily, we also provide rental options, offering a cost-effective solution without a long-term commitment.
We always recommend comparing prices and packages from different providers to find the best fit for your specific needs and budget. Whether you require a straight stairlift for a simple staircase or a curved stairlift to move around corners, there's a solution we can provide to suit every home and every customer.
Stairlift Safety Features: What Keeps You Secure?
Safety is at the heart of every stairlift we manufacture, and we ensure that every model is equipped with features designed to keep you secure and comfortable. Our stairlifts come with advanced safety sensors that automatically detect obstacles on the stairs, stopping the lift smoothly to prevent accidents. We carefully manage the installation process with our professionals who ensure your stairlift is installed at a reasonable distance from walls and banisters, protecting both your home and the stairlift itself.
For homes with narrow staircases, we offer compact designs and options like a perch seat to make it easy to fit a stairlift without sacrificing safety or accessibility. Our smooth start and stop technology ensures a gentle ride, whilst our user-friendly controls can be tailored to suit individual needs. When you choose us as your provider and select one of our high-quality stairlifts, you can be confident that we will install your new stairlift to the highest safety standards, giving you peace of mind every time you use it.
Maintenance and Repair: Keeping Your Stairlift Running Smoothly
To ensure our stairlift continues to provide safe and reliable service in our own home, regular maintenance is key. It's recommended to have our stairlift professionally serviced at least once a year. During these check-ups, a qualified technician will inspect the track, motor, and all moving parts, addressing any wear and tear before it becomes a problem.
In addition to professional servicing, we can help maintain our stairlift's performance by keeping the track clean and free from dust or debris. Simple tasks like wiping down the seat and controls can also help extend the life of our stairlift. Should we ever experience a breakdown or issue, most stairlift providers offer prompt repair services, including emergency call-outs, to restore our independence as quickly as possible.
By prioritising regular maintenance and timely repairs, we can enjoy years of trouble-free use from our stairlift, maintaining our independence and quality of life at home.
Stairlift Warranties and Guarantees
When we invest in a stairlift, it's important to consider the warranty and guarantee options we have available. A comprehensive warranty not only protects our stairlift against unexpected faults but also gives us peace of mind that our investment is secure. We offer a range of warranty packages, including extended coverage and maintenance plans, so we can choose the level of protection that best suits our needs and budget.
Platinum Stairlifts go a step further by providing a personalised, signed certificate of quality with every stairlift, ensuring that each product meets the highest safety and quality standards. With these robust warranties and guarantees, we can trust that our stairlift is built to last and that we'll receive support if any issues arise, allowing us to enjoy our stairlift with complete confidence.
Why We Trust Platinum Stairlifts
At Multicare Mobility, we’re proud to supply Platinum Stairlifts. They’re a British manufacturer with a reputation for engineering excellence and reliability.
The platinum stairlift range includes models known for their advanced features, smooth operation, and custom fit, making them a popular choice for those seeking comfort and reliability.
Platinum Stairlifts are built to order, ensuring a perfect fit for your staircase. They include:
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Smooth, comfortable rides with start/stop technology.
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User-friendly controls designed for all levels of mobility.
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Battery backup systems to keep you moving even during power cuts.
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High-quality materials built for long-term use.
When you choose a stairlift from us, you’re not only benefiting from our expert installation but also the outstanding quality of Platinum Stairlifts.
Our Full Range of Stairlifts
All of our stairlifts are supplied with expert installation, safety checks, and a full demonstration. We’ll always make sure you feel confident using your stairlift before we leave.
Multicare Mobility has stairlifts installed in a wide variety of homes, with each installation tailored to the customer's specific requirements.
At Multicare Mobility, we’re proud to provide one of the widest selections of stairlifts in the UK. Whatever your home layout or mobility needs, we have a solution. The purchase of a stairlift includes expert advice, help with selection, and professional installation to ensure the best outcome.
Our range covers:
Straight Stairlifts
The most common option is perfect for single-flight staircases with no bends or turns. Fast to install and highly reliable.
If you need flexibility or a temporary solution, renting a straight stairlift can be the perfect choice.
Curved Stairlifts
Custom-designed to fit staircases with curves, corners, or intermediate landings. These stairlifts provide seamless access across more complex layouts.
Heavy Duty Stairlifts
Engineered for strength and stability, our heavy duty stairlifts are designed to support higher weight limits while still offering comfort and style.
Outdoor Stairlifts
Ideal for gardens, patios, or driveways. Weatherproof, durable, and fitted with protective covers to keep them in top condition.
Narrow Stairlifts
Specially designed for homes with steep or slim staircases, narrow stairlifts feature a compact design that makes them ideal for homes with limited space. Slimline designs with foldable features maximise available space.
Step Into Comfort and Safety with Multicare Mobility
Stairlift installation is often much quicker and easier than most people expect. In many cases, your stairlift can be installed and ready to use in just a few hours, transforming your home and restoring your independence.
At Multicare Mobility, we’re proud to supply high-quality Platinum Stairlifts and to offer a full range of stairlifts to suit every type of home. Whether you need a straight, curved, heavy duty, outdoor, or narrow stairlift, our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Optional features such as a powered hinge are also available to further enhance convenience and space-saving in your home.
If you’re considering a stairlift, we’d love to help.
Get in touch with us today to arrange your free home survey and take the first step towards a safer, more accessible home.
FAQs About Stairlift Installation
1. Will my stairlift damage the walls?
No. Stairlifts are fitted to the steps of your staircase, not the walls. This means minimal disruption and no structural changes.
2. How soon can you install my stairlift?
Straight stairlifts can often be installed within days. Curved stairlifts take longer because the rail must be custom-made, but we’ll keep you informed every step of the way.
3. What happens if there’s a power cut?
Our stairlifts come with a built-in battery backup, so you’ll still be able to use them even during a power outage.
4. Can a stairlift be removed later?
Yes. Stairlifts can be removed with minimal impact on your staircase, leaving only small screw holes that can easily be filled.
5. What if my stairs are particularly steep or awkward?
There’s almost always a solution. With narrow stairlifts, bespoke rails, and expert fitting, we can usually accommodate even the trickiest staircases.
Why Choose Multicare Mobility for Stairlift Installation?
When you choose us, you’re not just buying a stairlift, you’re gaining a supportive partner who understands your needs. Here’s why our customers trust us:
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Over 35 years of experience fitting stairlifts across the UK.
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Authorised suppliers of Platinum Stairlifts, built in Britain to the highest standards.
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Expert engineers who take care of everything from installation to demonstration.
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Tailored solutions for all types of staircases, from straight to curved and beyond.
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Friendly, reliable service, we treat your home with respect and make sure you’re comfortable before we leave.
Our stairlifts have improved the lives of our customers by increasing their independence and safety at home.
Useful Resources
Stair Lift Fact Sheet – Middlesbrough Council
https://www.middlesbrough.gov.uk/adult-social-care/occupational-therapy/stair-lift-fact-sheet/
VAT Relief for Disabled People – HM Revenue & Customs
https://www.gov.uk/hmrc-internal-manuals/vat-relief-for-disabled-people/vrdp13000
