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Installing a stairlift in the home of an aging loved one provides them with a sense of independence and gives family members peace of mind. Before investing in a stairlift for a relative, there are a few factors to consider. One of the most common questions is whether these assistive devices may be mounted on either side of the stairs.
Stairlifts can be used on either side of the stairs since they’re track-mounted to the stair tread. Although usually installed along the wall, you can pick a side based on preference, ease of access, architecture, and obstructions. Some models suit either side, but most are left- or right-side only.
By knowing which side of the stairs is best to install a stairlift, you can help your loved one select a model that best suits their needs. Read on to learn more about stairlift mounting options and how to determine which side is best for your relative.
How Stairlifts Are Mounted
People are often under the assumption that stairlifts mount directly to the wall. Based on this assumption, it’s believed that you can only install these assistive devices on the wall side. This is factually incorrect.
Stairlifts are mounted to a track attached to the tread of the stairs. After installing the track, the contractor affixes a carriage to it and then connects the chair to the carriage. The carriage slides up and down the stairs to move your relative from one floor to the next.
Since stairlifts do not attach to the wall, they aren’t restricted to installation on the wall side only. They may be installed in areas with open floor plans, even where a wall isn’t available. With that said, it’s true that stairlifts are most often mounted to the side of the wall, usually for aesthetic and practical purposes.
Before installing a stairlift, ensure there’s enough space to install one. In most cases, stairways must be at least 30 inches (76.2 cm) wide for safe installation and use. The majority of stairlifts can fit on standard 36-inch (91.44 cm) wide staircases. Head clearance must be between 80 to 110 inches (203.2 to 279.4 cm), depending on the make and model.
Determining Which Side To Install a Stairlift
You can technically install a stairlift on either side of the staircase since it doesn’t require a wall for mounting. However, there’s usually a better side to mount the device, though this depends on several factors.
First, there’s preference. Second, most models are left- or right-side only. Some can accommodate placement on either side, though this is the exception and not the norm. As such, you’re usually required to make a placement decision prior to purchase.
Fortunately, most companies offer free measurements as part of your consultation and can recommend which side would work best for your loved one’s home and needs.
Let’s look at the various other factors that play a role in what side of the staircase you should place the stairlift.
Access Space at the Base of the Stairs
There must be enough space at the bottom of the staircase for installation, practicality, and safety. This includes ample room for accessing the chair without blocking pathways, coming into contact with obstructions, or the risk of being hit by opening doors.
The minimum amount of space required at the base of the stairs is usually around 24 inches (60.96 cm), though it may be more or less for specific makes or models of stairlifts.
If there is more space on one side of the stairs versus the other (due to walls, doors, etc.), you may be restricted to installation on one side.
Landing Space at the Top of the Staircase
Once the stairlift reaches the top of the stairs, there must be enough space for the device to come to a complete stop. After the stairlift finishes, your relative should have ample room to safely exit the stairlift.
Everything should be considered, even the handrails at the top of the staircase. These typically jut out around 18 inches (45.74 cm) past the top step, so the stairlift must stop past this point. Additionally, the chair lift must allow your loved one to avoid any obstructions while exiting and be far enough away from the stairs to prevent possible falls.
As such, if there is more space on one side versus the other, you may be more inclined to choose to install the stairlift on one particular side.
Avoidance of Architectural Obstructions
Handrails, molding, doors, pathways, walls, and other architectural obstructions can take away from the required space needed to correctly install a stairlift. For most people, it isn’t feasible to remodel their homes to make room for a stairlift, though it is an option. In most cases, you’re required to work with what you’ve got.
Since architecture can affect which side of the stairs the device may be positioned, it’s important to know your options.
There are various makes and models of stairlifts available, including deeper seats, smaller tracks, and fold-up chairs. For narrow spaces, there are “standing” stairlifts that allow the person to assume more of a standing position, so they take up less space as they travel up and down the stairs. Workarounds such as these can eliminate problems associated with space restrictions.
Outlets and Electrical Considerations
The majority of stairlifts use electricity in combination with battery backups in case of power outages. As such, many (but not all) of these assistive devices often require electrical outlets within a maximum of 10 feet of the top or bottom of the stairway. This access is required to power the stairlift and charge the batteries.
When only one outlet is available on a specific side of the staircase, you’ll likely have to install the stairlift along that side. If there is no outlet available on either side or you prefer to install the stairlift on the opposite side, you’ll have to hire an electrician to install a new outlet.
If you want to install stairlifts, you may want to know whether they’re attached to the wall. Click on the link to find out the answer. You’ll also learn more about the things you should consider when installing a stairlift. Are Stairlifts Attached to the Wall? What You Should Know
Conclusion
By knowing on which side to install a stairlift, you can help your relative choose a model that’s suitable for them and their home.
After the installation of this device, your loved one will have a new sense of freedom, while you have a sense of security knowing they’re accessing different areas of their home safely and securely.
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