Choosing The Right Outdoor Stairlift – What to Look for
Did you know you can also have an outdoor stairlift? Some manufacturers produce stairlifts designed to operate in outdoor settings. They work in much the same way as indoor stairlifts but are fully weatherproofed against the elements.
A stairlift is a perfect solution for making your home easily accessible and useable again after the stairs become a challenge. Yet, did you know you can also have an outdoor stairlift? Some manufacturers produce stairlifts designed to operate in outdoor settings. They work in much the same way as indoor stairlifts but are fully weatherproofed against the elements.
These external stairlifts are ideal if you live in a house that has a veranda or raised decking, etc, you might struggle to walk up and down safely. They’re also great if you have a split level or sloping garden with steps or steep inclines which you, or a loved one, can no longer manage safely. Most outdoor stairlifts run on straight rails. It’s possible to buy a curved outdoor stairlift, but you should bear in mind that it will be significantly more expensive due to the complexity of creating a bespoke curved rail, rather than simply cutting a straight rail to length.
It may well be cheaper to landscape the setting so that a straight rail works, instead of looking for a curved rail to match the existing setting. This is often possible outdoors, without the constraints of an enclosed staircase. You’ll need to factor in the cost of running a weatherproofed power supply to the stairlift, but this is a simple job for a qualified electrician. Another thing to consider is the ongoing maintenance cost. Just like an indoor stairlift, an outdoor one will benefit from an annual service by a qualified stairlift engineer. Check out the warranties and service agreements offered by various suppliers.
Here are some essential features of the best rated outdoor stairlifts:
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It should use weather-resistant materials, such as metals that won’t rust or have been given a rustproof coating, and durable plastics or vinyl.
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All electrical and electronic components should be fully weatherproofed so that rain can’t get in and cause damage.
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If you live in a region with extreme weather, check it will work in very low or high temperatures.
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It should be easy to clean, especially the rail so that it doesn’t get clogged with windblown debris such as fallen leaves.
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You should be able to fully disable it when not in use so that others don’t use it without permission. This can be achieved by having a lockable key switch.
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It should be supplied with a durable weatherproof cover to fit snugly over the stairlift carriage when not in use, keeping it clean and dry.
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It should come with some type of remote control so you can send or summon the stairlift carriage along the rail to where it’s needed.
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It must have the same essential safety features as an indoor stairlift, such as a seatbelt and sensors to detect any obstacle on the stairs and automatically stop the lift until it’s cleared.
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It should be powered by rechargeable batteries inside the stairlift carriage so it will continue to work in a power cut.
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A swivel seat that locks into position makes it easier to get on and off safely.
Never try to fit an indoor stairlift in an outdoor setting. It simply won’t work and it’s dangerous too. You’ll pay a little more for a purpose-built outdoor stairlift, but it’s a worthwhile investment in improving safe access to your property and opening up your outdoor space.