Introduction: Stairlifts vs. Home Elevators
For those living in multi-level houses, a mobility challenge can become restricting. Stairs turn into barriers that keep you from moving freely about your home, leading to unnecessary stress. Installing a stairlift or elevator is a practical solution for those struggling with mobility. We hear from customers every day about how their mobility equipment is like a lifeline to maintaining their independence and freedom in their own homes. Not to mention, added benefits like safety, security, and convenience means daily life becomes more manageable and enjoyable. Considering these options for yourself? You’ve come to the right place.
Safety for Seniors
For seniors living independently, the reassurance of a stairlift or home elevator can transform a potentially hazardous daily task into one that is simple and secure. These solutions provide comfort and confidence for all involved. Let’s talk about what each of these are and how they’re different.
What is a Stairlift?
A stairlift is a motorized chair or platform that glides along a rail that’s mounted to the staircase steps; not the wall as some tend to think. People with limited mobility or balance issues can maintain independence in multi-level homes with the help of a stairlift. It’s a single-user piece of equipment featuring a seat and typically safety features like seat belts, armrests, and footrests. The controls are user-friendly and operated with a simple button or joystick. Stairlifts come in various models to accommodate straight or curved staircases, making them highly customizable to any multi-level home.
What is a Home Elevator?
A home elevator is exactly what you might expect—an elevator installed in the house. As you can imagine, an elevator shaft requires a significant amount of space to build and install, given it’s designed to be a functional, vertical transportation system with entry ports on every level of the building. It typically consists of a cab, hoist mechanism, and control system, often powered by electric motors. In most cases, they’re highly customizable, functional, and more elegant.
When to Choose a Stairlift vs. a Home Elevator
When it comes to deciding between a home elevator and a stairlift, the answer might not be so obvious. If you’re wondering about how an installation might impact your home, or if you have concerns about the appearance, space requirements, or sound of the equipment, you’ve come to the right place.
Space
Both stairlifts and elevators come in a variety of sizes and widths so that they can fit in your home. However, they require different kinds of space in your home. While stairlifts range in size to accommodate different types of stairways, home elevators require space above, behind, and below the elevator to accommodate the motor and elevator shaft. Certain stairlifts can also fold away while not in use, but an elevator needs a permanent home.
Appearance
While some stairlifts fold away, you still have to consider the railings, platform, and parts that may not be so easily concealed. Depending on the brand, the chair and stairlift may come in a variety of finishes and colors so the lift can complement your staircase. With home elevators, their appearance will depend on what type of elevator you purchase. A home elevator seamlessly blends functionality with style, offering a wide range of customizable finishes and designs to complement any interior décor. From sleek glass panels to warm wood accents, modern elevators can enhance the aesthetics of your home while providing unmatched convenience. However, pneumatic elevators are typically made of glass or plastic tubing as they are meant to be exposed, which makes them hard to conceal.
Installation
Stairlifts take less time to install; specifically, they can usually be installed in three to four hours. Elevators can take days or weeks to install, depending on whether they need a shaft and what type of machinery they use. Call your local 101 Mobility to see how we might be able to help customize your solution.
Noise
While both stairlifts and elevators make noise, most stairlifts are created to make minimal amounts of noise. Elevators are typically noisier, and how much noise they make will depend on the type of elevator you purchase. Pneumatic vacuum elevators are typically quieter; however, cable-driven or standard home elevators can make a lot of noise. While you can install acoustic paneling to eliminate elevator noise, that is an added expense and should be something you consider.
Maintenance
While both home elevators and stairlifts require annual maintenance, certain elevators need to be inspected and require additional maintenance every five years. 101 Mobility includes a complimentary One-Year Limited Service Warranty on each new product that we sell and install.
Return on investment
Having an elevator in your home can increase your property value, but how much depends on the elevator type, features, and home condition in general. Though the cost can range between $35,000-$100,000 or more, some would say that home elevators pay for themselves within a year, compared to the cost of assisted living. On the other hand, stairlifts are a cheaper option, ranging between $3,500-$15,000 depending on the unit, but do not typically increase your home’s resale price or value as they are not highly sought after by buyers. Sometimes, you may have to remove the stairlift when you sell to avoid limiting the number of potential buyers.
Now, let’s take a closer look at some of the challenges and advantages of both the stairlift and the home elevator.
Stairlift Pros & Cons
The Benefits of Stairlifts
When deciding between a stairlift and an elevator, each option has a few pros and cons to consider:
Stairlifts Pros
- Affordability: Whether you install or rent a stairlift, it can be more affordable than a home elevator. You can apply for stairlift grants and financial aid to help cover the cost.
- No Construction or Remodeling: Unlike with home elevators, you do not have to plan for construction. Stairlifts are installed upon existing structures (your staircase).
- Easy Installation: Stairlifts attach to the tread of your staircase and can be easily attached and installed in hours by expert technicians.
Stairlifts Cons
- Limited Design Options: Stairlifts offer fewer decorative styles, and depending on your stairwell’s size, installing one may require removing the existing railing, which could detract from your interior design.
- Property Value: Stairlifts may not increase the value of your home.
- Lower Weight Limits: Stairlifts generally have lower weight capacity for individual users compared to elevators.
- Access to Only One Floor: A stairlift can only provide access to one additional floor, unless multiple units are installed on different stairways.
- Space Usage on Stairs: Even when not in use, a stairlift takes up space on the stairs.
Home Elevator Pros & Cons
The Benefits of Home Elevators
When deciding between a stairlift and a home elevator, consider the advantages of each option:
Elevator Pros
- Location Flexibility: Unlike a stairlift, which is fixed to the stairs, a home elevator can be installed in various locations throughout your home.
- Increased Home Value: As mentioned earlier, a well-designed elevator can enhance your home’s resale value, especially if it complements the overall design.
- Wheelchair Accessibility: Elevators offer greater ease for wheelchair users since they can simply roll in and out, without the need for transfer.
- Customizable Design and Configuration: While stairlifts come in a range of colors and sizes, home elevators offer even more customization options to match your home’s décor and aesthetic.
- Reliability and Safety: Home elevators provide peace of mind with added safety features like emergency buttons, a phone, and emergency lighting. Not only do you avoid the risk of falling on stairs, but you’re also protected with easy access to help in case of an emergency.
- Independence: Elevators offer greater independence, allowing users to move freely between floors without needing assistance, unlike some stairlifts that may require help from another person.
Elevator Cons
- Costly Installation: Home elevators can be quite expensive, and the cost can’t be offset with grants.
- Construction Requirements: Your home will have to undergo construction to install the elevator, and the elevator will have to be installed and built with respect to building codes.
- Long Project Timeline: As we mentioned, home elevators can take a long time to install. A lot of time must also be dedicated to choosing the location, selecting a brand and design, and making other decisions before installation even begins.
Still Need Help Deciding Between a Stairlift & Elevator? Speak with Our Consultants!
At 101 Mobility, our experts can help you determine whether a stairlift or a home elevator is the best possible option for your home and unique needs. Known for treating our clients like family, we are passionate about finding the perfect solution for your specific situation, and we aren’t afraid to think outside of the box to address your needs and concerns. From the initial consultation to the installation and beyond, we are prepared to support you as you make your home more accessible with either a stairlift or a home elevator. To schedule a consultation and learn more about our services, find your closest 101 Mobility location today!
