Stairlift versus elevator comparison: which one should you install?

A stairlift can turn out to be a great loved asset in your golden years and you do not even need to compromise the advantages of having all the space of a two story house. You do not even need to move to a new home with a single floor because of mobility issues.

When thinking of mobility up and down the floors of your house, there are two main choices to make: a home elevator or stair lift. Therefore you might have come to this article trying to understand the benefits of each and which would be better for your home. Each and every one of these options has its own advantages and disadvantages over the other. While stairlifts are less pricy that home elevators, the latter can come with a host of advantages that you might feel not right to ignore as we shall see.

Advantages and disadvantages of a stairlift

A stairlift, as we said, is less costly compared to elevator because there is no remodeling needed. Other than the equipment cost, there will be the cost of electricity. You can also reduce the costs further by buying reconditioned stairlifts or going for rental stairlifts. Again, a stairlift is the best option if you have tired joints or do get winded going up a flight of stairs. Stairlifts can make it much easier for you to go up and down even several times a day if you have trouble bending your knees or have hip issues.

A stairlift can also work on inside as well as outside staircases and for both straight and curvy staircases.

For the bad side, stairlifts suits for minor mobility and strength and endurance issues but not best for more serious medical issues. It will be quite strenuous and uncomfortable if you have difficulty getting about the house without a cane or walker.

A stairlift is very difficult to make it look attractive. Even the best design options may not cover the aesthetics for those people who are serious about home beauty. Nevertheless, you can try blending chair colors with the color of the rail or creating an interesting contrast. You can also change chair appearance by, for instance adding a wooden trim.

Advantages and disadvantages of an elevator

An elevator is most suitable regardless of your healthy issues, mild or severe. Compared to new or reconditioned stairlifts or rental stairlifts, it will make the home look more attractive. You are also able to use it to carry heavy things up and down and everyone else in the home will also enjoy it.

But it comes in as a pricy option, takes longer to get installed and running, and is most suitable for in-door needs. Putting it outside is very expensive although possible.