Staircase Elevators

Staircase elevators are invaluable aids when people living within a home have difficulty getting up and down stairs. Not only are they great additions for those who are bound to a wheelchair but literally anyone of any age can take advantage of staircase elevators if they cannot safely navigate the stairs. Some of these types of elevators or lifts are more temporary while others are permanently installed. It is best to consider whether or not the person in need of the elevator will have a lifelong need or perhaps temporary need when recovering from surgery or a broken hip, for example.

Staircase Elevators vs. Staircase Lifts

Some homes do not have the space to accommodate a domestic elevator to help transport family members with mobility problems up and down various levels of the home. While both a staircase elevator and a staircase lift run up and down the existing stairway, elevators are more permanent and may be enclosed. Similar to a staircase lift that turns up a rail on the stairway, there is a chair for the person to sit in many times but the difference is there is also a 'cabin' of sorts that closes. A staircase lift is simply a chair on a rail that runs up and down the stairs either in a straight line or even around a curve.

Optional Features

One of the optional features to look for when choosing staircase elevators is where the controls are located. Some types have a wall unit that controls the elevator while others have controls built into the arm of the chair. Others still have remote controls so that they can even be called up or down stairs from a remote location in the event that the chair was left at the wrong end of the staircase. Remote controlled staircase elevators are the perfect solution for homes where two or more inhabitants need to use the elevator to get up and down stairs.

Cost Analysis

When considering whether to have a permanent or more temporary type of staircase elevators installed the first consideration may be cost. Of course permanent structures will be higher priced than those which can be moved if the need arises. Because of the higher cost, staircase elevators are best suited for homes which are owned by the family or individual while staircase lifts which are more temporary are best suited for apartment dwellers. They are more easily taken down and reinstalled should the person/family move while still needing help with travelling up and down stairs.

Since there are such a great number of things to consider when purchasing staircase elevators, it is always good to get quotes from several companies before deciding on which model to install. Not only will pricing vary among competitors but there will be a broader variety of choices as well. By discussing your needs with a reputable domestic elevator manufacturer/distributor you will be able to find staircase elevators that are best suited to you and your particular needs.