The type of stairlift you need depends entirely on your staircase. Most people can work out which type they need with a quick look at their stairs — but a free home survey is the only way to get a definitive answer and an accurate price.
This page explains the key differences between straight and curved stairlifts in plain English, so you can go into any conversation with a supplier knowing what to ask.
Straight stairlifts are by far the most common type installed in the UK. If your staircase runs in a single straight line from the hallway floor to the landing above — with no bends, turns or intermediate steps going off in a different direction — a straight stairlift is almost certainly what you need.
Because the rails are manufactured in standard lengths (then trimmed on site if needed), straight stairlifts are quicker to supply and install than their curved counterparts. Many suppliers can fit one within a few days of the initial survey. Installation typically takes two to four hours and causes minimal disruption.
Straight stairlifts also cost significantly less, making them accessible for more people and better suited to reconditioned models if budget is a concern.
A curved stairlift is necessary whenever your staircase changes direction. That includes staircases with a quarter turn, a half landing partway up, a spiral element, or any bend at all. The rail must follow the exact shape of your staircase, which means it is manufactured specifically for your home.
Because every curved rail is unique, there is a production lead time — typically two to six weeks from survey to installation. The higher cost reflects this custom manufacturing process rather than any particular complexity in the stairlift itself.
Many older UK properties — Victorian terraces, Edwardian semis, and Georgian townhouses in particular — have staircases with a half landing or a quarter turn, meaning a curved stairlift is the only practical option. A good supplier will confirm this during the free home survey and explain exactly what they are quoting for.
Here is a simple way to work out which type of stairlift your staircase requires.
If your steps are external — leading to a front door, side entrance or garden — an outdoor stairlift may be exactly what you need. Outdoor stairlifts are weatherproofed for use outside and built to withstand rain, frost and fluctuating temperatures.
Outdoor stairlifts are available in straight configurations only. They follow the same principle as an indoor straight stairlift but with weather-resistant components and covers. The typical cost is £2,500 – £4,500 installed, reflecting the more robust materials required.
If you have read through this page and you are still not sure, do not worry — a free home survey will give you a definitive answer. A specialist visits your home, assesses the staircase in person, and recommends the right type of stairlift for your situation. You will receive a written quote, and there is absolutely no obligation to proceed.
It is also worth getting quotes from more than one supplier, particularly for a curved stairlift where prices can vary more significantly. A reputable company will give you the time and space to compare and decide without any pressure.
Book a free home survey and a specialist will visit, assess your staircase, and give you a written no-obligation quote.