Stairlifts are a necessity for many people, especially if you or a loved one has mobility issues and finds climbing stairs difficult. However, this doesn’t mean they’re a one-size-fits-all purchase.
If you’re wondering whether you can modify or upgrade your stairlift, read on to learn the key differences between the two options, which is best for your circumstances, and the most common modifications available.
Modify vs Upgrade: Which is Better?
Modifying and upgrading your stairlift are both common, but alternative, options.
Let’s take a closer look at their main differences:
| Factors | Modify | Upgrade |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Stairlifts that work well but need a style or safety feature | Stairlifts that are old and unreliable with no modern features |
| Typical Cost | Lower, as you’re adjusting one element, not replacing the full stairlift | Higher, as you’re buying a modern, full stairlift |
| Installation Time | Quick, as most changes are made during a single visit | Can take longer depending on the type of stairlift |
| Available Features | Limited to what your current model supports | Full range of options available |
| Weight Capacity | Fixed to your current model’s limit | Can be increased with a heavy-duty model |
In summary, modification is less expensive, but if your stairlift is unreliable or isn’t performing as it should, a complete upgrade may be the better option.
Ways to Modify Your Stairlift
Stairlifts are often thought of as being all the same, but this isn’t the case. Modern stairlifts offer additional features and modifications for increased safety and convenience.
Swivel Seats
Stairlift seat options largely depend on the model you choose and your mobility needs. During a home assessment, stairlift engineers typically discuss seating options, offering a swivel seat as standard, which can be operated by easy-to-use levers on either side of the chair.
Certain stairlift models come with a two-way powered swivel seat, meaning the chair can swivel at the top and bottom of the staircase for much easier access, reducing the strain on your joints. Additionally, it allows you to face away from the staircase when you get off the stairlift, making it easier and safer to get on and off.
Footrest and Armrest
Most stairlifts come with a manual footrest as standard, which means you have to lift it with your hand or foot before getting off.
However, you may want this modified into a powered footrest to avoid lifting it manually — something that’s difficult to do with mobility issues. Bending down to fold a footrest is incredibly risky to someone’s back, hips, or knees.
Upholstery Colours
You shouldn’t have to compromise on style when choosing a mobility aid — it’s a principle we stand by at Halton Stairlifts. That’s why we offer an extensive range of upholstery colours to consider, including Tan, Atlantic, Chalk, Black, Mulberry, Biscuit, Mist, and Celtic.
Your stairlift is an essential part of any home or commercial space, so why not tailor its design to fit with your interior? Our upholstery options let you personalise your stairlift while keeping your existing interior style intact.
Rail Colours
Beyond seat upholstery, the rail itself can often be finished in different colours or coatings to match your interior.
Not everyone will want a white gloss finish, with many opting for an alternative powder coating to change its appearance. While rail modification is usually available, it’s important to check your supplier offers this.
When is a Stairlift Upgrade Required?
If your stairlift is quite old, you may benefit from a newer model rather than seeking ways to modify your existing stairlift.
A stairlift upgrade may be required if:
- Your stairlift is unreliable or noisy
- You’ve moved home and have a different staircase shape or layout
- You want certain key stairlift features
- Replacement parts for your current stairlift are either difficult to find or too expensive
- You’d prefer a battery-operated stairlift
- Your mobility needs have changed, and you need extra support
A wide range of modern stairlift designs have emerged in recent years, particularly for more complex or narrow staircases, meaning there may now be a better fit for your home. Upgrading your stairlift can deliver real day-to-day improvements, not just additional features.
Do You Want to Modify or Upgrade Your Stairlift?
At Halton Stairlifts, we have a wide range of stairlifts available for most staircase configurations.
We offer modern, comfortable stairlifts with a range of modification options to ensure you’re equipped with the best-suited stairlift for your home or commercial space.
With a varied selection of upholstery colours and additional features, we have something to suit everyone’s personal preference and circumstances.
To explore our stairlift modification options or discuss a complete upgrade, please contact our team today.
FAQs
What upholstery colour should I choose for my stairlift?
You can choose from a range of upholstery colours for your stairlift, with options from light to dark tones to suit different home interiors. The type of colour you choose is best paired with your existing interior.
Can a stairlift be shortened?
Yes, a stairlift can be shortened. It’s generally much easier to adjust a straight stairlift than a curved one because of the complex, custom-built rail required for its design, which can’t be shortened or reused elsewhere.
Can a stairlift be changed from left to right?
Yes, a stairlift can be switched from left to right, but it usually requires new parts, such as seat adjustments and a rail type change. You can’t simply reverse your existing stairlift to the other side of your stairs without professional help and advice.
If I upgrade my stairlift, can my old one be removed?
Yes, if you upgrade your stairlift, your old one can be removed. Most stairlift suppliers offer a removal service, especially if you’re purchasing a new stairlift from them. At Halton Stairlifts, this is a popular service we offer to customers.
Neil is the founder of Halton Stairlifts. He has years of experience installing stairlifts across the UK. With an eagerness to help those with mobility issues get up the stairs, Neil understands how important it is for a seamless and straightforward approach to installing stairlifts to help those in need quickly.
