Row houses in Albany, farmhouses in the Hudson Valley and Victorian homes in Glens Falls have something in common: staircases that are steep, tight and often boxed in by walls. Owners of these homes frequently assume a stair lift will not fit. In most cases it will.
How narrow is too narrow?
There is no single cut-off, because the answer depends on the lift and on the rider. What matters is the clear width between the wall or banister on each side, and whether there is room for the rider’s knees and feet while travelling. A slim stair lift is designed with exactly this in mind, and the only reliable way to know is to have the staircase measured.
What makes a stair lift slim
- A rail that hugs the wall. The closer the rail sits to the edge of the steps, the more open stair is left.
- A compact folded size. With the seat, arms and footrest folded, a slim model projects only a short way from the wall.
- A swivel seat at the top. The seat turns to face the landing, so the rider steps off onto level floor.
Common obstacles and how they are handled
- A door at the foot of the stairs. A folding section of rail lifts out of the way so the door can open.
- A radiator or newel post. The rail can often be positioned on the opposite side.
- A low ceiling or bulkhead. We check head clearance along the whole run during the survey.
Protecting an older staircase
Many owners of period homes worry about damage to original woodwork. The rail is fastened to the treads, not to the wall or the balustrade, and it can be taken out later with little trace.
When a stair lift is not the answer
A few staircases really are too tight, or the rider may need to stay in a wheelchair. In those cases a compact home elevator, placed elsewhere in the house, is usually the better route.
Have your stairs measured
Nationwide Lifts of New York surveys staircases across the Capital Region and the Hudson Valley free of charge. Call 888-323-8755 to book a visit.