Many people put off getting a stairlift because they imagine the installation will be disruptive. In reality, it is one of the quickest and cleanest home improvements you can have done. Here is exactly what happens, step by step.
Before installation day - the home survey
Everything starts with a free home survey. One of our surveyors visits your home, measures the staircase, checks for anything that might affect the installation, and discusses your needs. This takes about 30-45 minutes and there is no obligation.
For straight stairlifts, installation can often happen the very next day. For curved stairlifts, the custom rail takes a few weeks to manufacture, so there is a short wait.
What the engineer does on the day
The engineer arrives at the agreed time with the stairlift and all the tools needed. First, the rail is positioned and secured to the stair treads using brackets. The rail sits on the steps themselves - nothing is fixed to the wall, and no structural changes are made to your home.
Next, the stairlift unit (the seat, motor, and carriage) is fitted onto the rail. The engineer then connects the charging points at the top and bottom of the rail - stairlifts run on rechargeable batteries, so they work even during a power cut.
Finally, the engineer tests everything thoroughly. The stairlift runs up and down several times, the safety sensors are checked, and the seatbelt and swivel seat are tested.
How long does it take?
A straight stairlift typically takes between 1.5 and 3 hours from start to finish. A curved stairlift, because the rail has more components, takes around 3 to 5 hours. Either way, the work is normally completed in a single visit.
There is no building work, no dust, and no mess. The engineer will clean up after themselves and leave your stairs ready to use immediately.
Learning to use your stairlift
Before the engineer leaves, they will show you (and anyone else who will be using or assisting with the stairlift) exactly how it works. Modern stairlifts are very intuitive - most use a simple joystick or toggle on the armrest. Push one way to go up, the other way to go down.
The engineer will also explain the safety features, show you how to fold the seat and footrest when the stairlift is not in use, and answer any questions. You will have our phone number if you need any help after they leave.
What to do to prepare
Very little is needed from you. Just make sure the staircase is clear of any items, and that there is a power socket reasonably close to where the stairlift will be parked (top or bottom of the stairs). If you are unsure about the socket, the surveyor will flag this during the home visit.
Ready to get started? Book your free home survey or call 0800 776 5404. We will arrange a visit at a time that suits you.
We install stairlifts across Scotland including Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Stirling, Motherwell, Greenock and Johnstone.