Straight Stairlifts vs. Curved Stairlifts

Comparing Mobility Solutions

If you’re considering a stairlift, you’ve likely hit a fork in the road: Do I need a straight or curved model? It’s not just about the shape of your staircase—it’s about your lifestyle, budget, and long-term needs. Let’s break down the differences, costs, and real-world pros and cons so you can make the best choice for your home.

What’s the Big Difference?

Straight Stairlifts are designed for staircases with no bends, curves, or landings, typically found in homes with a single, uninterrupted flight of stairs. Installation is usually faster and simpler, as most models use pre-made rails that attach directly to your stairs. These stairlifts are more budget-friendly, with prices generally ranging from $2,500 to $5,000. They are ideal for ranch-style homes, split-level entries, or any straightforward staircase design.

Curved Stairlifts, on the other hand, are custom-built to navigate stairs with turns, landings, spiral sections, or multiple floors. Installation is more complex, requiring precise measurements and handcrafted rails, which can take days or even weeks to complete. The cost for a curved stairlift is significantly higher, often starting at $10,000 and increasing based on the complexity of the design. These stairlifts are best suited for historic homes, grand staircases, or properties with unique architectural features.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Straight and Curved Stairlifts

When deciding between a straight or curved stairlift, there are several important factors to keep in mind that go beyond just price and installation. Here are some key considerations to help you make an informed decision:

Resale Value

Installing a stairlift, especially a curved one, may influence the resale value of your property. While some buyers may see a stairlift as an added convenience, others may not find it as appealing. However, for homes with seniors or people with mobility issues, a stairlift can make the property more attractive.

Customization

Curved stairlifts are highly customizable to fit unique staircases with turns, landings, or spiral designs. This makes them an ideal choice for homes with non-traditional stairs. In contrast, straight stairlifts are more limited in design but are ideal for homes with simple, uninterrupted stairways.

Maintenance

Maintenance for stairlifts is essential to ensure long-term functionality. Straight stairlifts generally require less frequent maintenance due to their simpler design. In comparison, curved stairlifts, while built to last, may need more specialized servicing due to their intricate rails and custom parts. Regular maintenance and occasional adjustments might be needed for curved stairlifts, but these systems are designed to provide a long-lasting, smooth ride if properly cared for.

Installation

Installation of a straight stairlift is typically quicker and easier, often taking a few hours or a single day. This is due to the standard, pre-made tracks that can be adjusted to the length of your staircase. On the other hand, curved stairlifts involve a more complicated installation process that requires precise measurements, customized rails, and, in some cases, structural modifications to your home. Installation of a curved stairlift can take several days or even weeks, and it’s crucial to work with experienced technicians who can ensure proper alignment and safety.

maureen flynn

1741888390

The Stair lift Store installers were so respectful and professional in their service to me. They worked together well, worked quickly and showed me how to operate the lift. They were clear in explaining the warranty and how to receive a service call if needed. This was so important to me as I was trying to deal with the fact that I needed a stair left. Their help was immeasurable. Thank you!

Wendy M

1741455465

This company is amazing-110%. You will not get better quality service and professionalism anywhere else. I don't write reviews, but I had to in this case. Honestly from the installation to maintenance of the chair has great. Thank you Mark and staff!

paul Morris

1741029588

I am located in Brantford and am having some minor problems with my chair lift. I called the chair lift store and was pleasantly surprised when Mark suggested I try a few minor adjustments myself. I appreciate the helpful advice and saved a service call thanks to Mark. Paul Morris

Gurjot Singh

1739831475

Great Experience with Stair Lift Store & Mark!

I recently reached out to Stair Lift Store to inquire about a stair lift, and even though I didn’t visit the store in person, my experience over the phone was excellent. Mark was incredibly helpful, knowledgeable, and patient in answering all my questions. He took the time to explain different options, pricing, and installation details, making the whole process easy to understand.

Even without seeing the products in person, I felt confident in their quality and service just from my conversation with Mark. It’s clear that customer satisfaction is a top priority for him and his team. If you’re looking for a reliable stair lift provider with outstanding service, I highly recommend Stair Lift Store!

conventbaker

1739400989

Service was fast & professional - our home has two flights of stairs & a landing - this is perfect for our needs A+

John Smith

1739222227

Had our starlift for over a year and recently had a small malfunction. Called and repair people were at my door in less than 1 hour. Totally fix minor problem in 30 minutes. Now that is service. Very professional people and can't rate them high enough. Recommend them 100%. The Stairlift Store, only place to buy. Thanks again guys.

Donald Moore

1738695227

Mark and his installation crew installed a second stairlift in our home and came back several times till we were happy with it. They are tops in their field!

Rina Jain

1738249737

Got stair lift installed !
A life saver , done by most professional people !
Very pleased with the product and excellent service !
Very helpful and explained everything !
Totally satisfied !
Rina Jain

Mountain w Studio

1736444263

I just wanted to leave a comment here about the most amazing service we received from Mark in the installation and the helpful advice that he gave regarding our acorn stairlift . He was readily available by phone to help us trouble shoot our lift issues , even though it had been four years since the install. Highly recommend this company!!

Fran Szypula

1736378030

If I could have given this company ten stars, I would have!! Very professional and efficient. Our 20+ year old stairlift had not been working for some time. William arrived at our home to provide a quote for a new one (or possibly a used one). But on assessing the situation, he suggested that we try a new battery (we had been told by another company that batteries for our older model lift were no longer available).
William went out to his car, obtained a new battery and in no time, had it installed!! The stairlift now works perfectly!! So refreshing to work with a company that values honesty and integrity!! We highly recommend this company!

Dave Thomson

1734720557

Just had a really informative chat with Mark regarding my equipment situation at home, really nice fellow and Mark provided me with some valuable info in how to proceed. If in the future I need new equipment you can rest assured I will be giving Mark a call back. Service like this is hard to find nowadays.

Sharon Fair

1733857505

Thank you Mark, William and Frank for your wonderful customer service. You have all been a pleasure to deal with.
-Larry & Sharon

Michael Hardman

1733589028

I recently needed a part for my Acorn Superglide 120 stair lift, and I was fortunate to deal with Mark. His expertise and willingness to help were second to none. Mark went above and beyond to ensure I got exactly what I needed, providing clear advice and guidance throughout the process. The part arrived quickly, and my stair lift is now working perfectly again. It’s rare to find such excellent customer service these days, and I can’t thank Mark enough for making what could have been a stressful situation so simple. Highly recommend!

Play List Geraldo Wall

1733333114

Thank you for the Stairlift instruction. It is working well. Frank the Installer did an excellent job. Very courteous and professional. Thanks again The Stairlift Store for the Liftchair.
Thank You,
Geraldo Wall

Laurie White

1732729228

Thank you Mark for your supportive compassion that helped my husband overcome his reluctance to consider the stairlift. After William installed it, my husband began happily and easily using it. We're grateful, and I am relieved beyond words. So glad I called your company. One less worry!

Janet Linton

1732053145

I reached out to Mark about a stair lift. My friend needed temporary assistance to get to her daughter’s rehearsal dinner and wedding. Within an hour of my call he was on site to survey the location and the lift was installed days later. We are truly grateful for your professionalism and speed in this situation. You saved the day! Thank you!!

Ernie Gauthier

1731599528

I have been a customer since 2014. Whenever I’ve had to problem with one of my stairlifts Mark has been very quick to respond. Whether it’s Mark or one of his crew, you can always depend on friendly and reliable service.

Neville Nazir

1731291016

I was in need of 2 stairlifts in my parents home rather urgently. After calling a few companies (one was extremely rude), we decided to go with The Stairlift store. Mark was very helpful from the first phone call, and was able to have both stairlifts installed within a few days. One of the stairlifts had a small problem within the first few days, but was quickly fixed as a technician came that day. Overall, we are grateful for the time and care Mark and his employees took to ensure my parents safety. Thank you!! I highly recommend this company !

Carm Di Pietro

1731085890

Fantastic service from both Mark & Adam!! They were super helpful, respectful, kind and supportive to my parents needs. Highly recommend this Hamilton team!

Gino Conte

1728668070

I usually don’t write reviews, but I had to for this company.
Mark ( the owner) came over to give me a quote for a stairlift, he was very pleasant and polite. He recommended different options to meet our needs. We decided to have the stairlift store install the lift;
2-3 days later I got a call from Mark saying that the stairlift was ready to be installed. We setup an install date and
Frank the installer came over to do the work.
Frank was very knowledgeable, professional and polite. He answered all my questions. His work was outstanding. If you are looking to have a stairlift installed call the stairlift store
You won’t be disappointed, trust me !!

Kathy Patterson

1728416430

The people associated with the store were all awesome, I’ve never had so much kind help grime any other place. Mark is an awesome persona and really cares about people and helping them out!! His repair men were so curious and kind. They really stand behind their product and are there to fix anything that goes wrong. Your staff is awesome and a pleasure to have in my home….. very respectful of my property, Thanks Mark…..you are awesome, I can’t thank you enough ❤️

Ed Pendy

1727910160

Mark was very helpful and went out of his way to find parts for our Acorn Stairlift. Great customer service and very knowledgeable. Very quick response to our request for parts.

Jason Speight

1727260202

My father recently fell down some stairs.I called Mark and he and his team had a new stair lift in my parents home in a couple of days.In fairness we could have had it sooner.The whole experience has been nothing but positive.I wouldn't hesitate to call Mark again.

Tom Patti

1727201939

Had stairlift installed 4 days ago…excellent!
Mark responded quickly and arranged for a consultation immediately. Frank installed the chair lift and did a great job. He instructed us on the use of it, etc.
I chose The Stairlift Store because a family member recommended this company. After I read the other reviews, I made the decision to have this company do the job.
I am very pleased with the results and I would recommend this company to anyone with mobility issues that needs assistance on the stairs.
Thank you … Anne

J Prewitt

1726582913

We had a chair installed last week, and so far, we are finding it very easy to use, and super helpful. Frank was very professional when installing, spent time explaining everything to us, and we appreciated how quickly the whole process from quote to installation was.

Susan Clark

1726501210

I’m posting this review to reach others, to take at least one thing off your plate of stress, if you have become a caregiver to a family member, finding services to help that can be trusted is stressful and can feel too much like a crap shoot.

You won’t find a better provider if you need a stair lift installed in a home.

They are cost conscious, offering used stair lift options if they’re available. They provide a warranty, that does not come with a service call cost. They’re honest and informative by advising the repair only needs a part and tracking said part down if it’s possible. When it would be easier for them to make more money by just saying a whole motor needs replacing etc. Their installers are extremely knowledgeable, considerate and trustworthy.
You won’t worry while they’re in your home.

Thomas Moore

1726490184

The STAIRLIFT Store was great to work with. I had to relocate a chair lift for a family member. The people (Frank and Mark) were easy to talk with and answered all my questions. They took the time to talk with me so that I knew what needed to be done and how it would be done.
I have referred the STAIRLIFT store to friends for when a chair lift is needed.

Donna Lero

1725664039

Wonderful experience. Very responsive, installation within a week of first contacting this store. Mark got back to me right away. Adam was efficient, answered all my questions, very supportive. I would definitely recommend them!

Scott Webster

1725371745

Very fast and courteous. In and out within a few hours Thank you for the peace of mind Scott.

M Abraham

1725042781

As always prompt and personable

Atom Webstar

1725033149

The Stirlift store was amazing adam was very helpful and understanding and was very quick at putting the lift up. Thank you for your hard work

Louise Booth

1724888408

The staff of The Stairlift Store are all very friendly, kind and helpful. Mark was accommodating in setting up a convenient time for a site & quote visit; Frank was very helpful and informative in giving us information, patiently and clearly explaining all the information to my very elderly parent; and Adam was very friendly, efficient, and thoughtful both during the installation and tutorial for its use. The Bespoke lift is fantastic - easy to use, quiet and lovely looking. It has given new independence for my parent!! Thank you, all!

Mary Gray

1724840783

The installation was quick and efficient and the product works great. The time from quote to installing was very fast.

Annette Amin

1724427443

I had a chair lift installed at my house for my Mother a few months back. Mark was very quick in responding, gave me very good advice and was a good support for me at the time. Between Mark and Adam, I had peace of mind. The work was done efficiently and quickly, no mess to clean up. Thank you

SOPH

1724184379

I can't thank Mark, Frank and Adam enough for my parents' new stairlift and their wonderful customer service. From quote to installation was 3 days. The installation itself only took a couple of hours and was ready to use immediately. Thank you again for making my parents' lives easier and safer!!

Tamara Hasan

1723158566

Very pleased with the service
We contacted Mark and asked for a quote and he responded in no time with accurate assessment after sending the responsible team for measurements. The entire team is very professional and punctual with their timelines.
Highly recommended in case you need a stairlift in your house.

Paul Chang

1722615520

Very professional throughput the entire process delivering exactly what was promised.

Marilyn Cooper

1722558371

When the time came to get a stairlift, I did my research. I chose The Stairlift Store. The entire team has been great and the experience has been seamless. I highly recommend them.

Derek Bender

1722098876

Mark and his team are incredible, they always take care of their customers and care about them.

Sandra Sorichetti Baiao

1722014510

I contacted Mark for a quote on July 24. July 25 Adam came by and took measurements. July 26 Frank came and installed the stairlift. It was needed to be done for Saturday with my mother in law coming home from hospital. Absolutely fantastic service! Thank you Mark Adam and Frank so much!! Cheers!!

Ann Girvan

1721753820

Very pleased with service I received from the Stairlift Store. Have used then since 2012.

Abi Monrad

1721243630

I had been hit with a power surge and Mark and Frank found that the transformer was burnt out and had my lift up and running again

Liesl DesLauriers

1718815731

Unbelievable service from start to finish!
I had a very specific last minute request (left a message late on the weekend) and Mark promptly called me back and accommodated my needs. I needed additional track and hardware for a older model lift. Mark, immediately understood the requirements from the photos I sent him. He cut the pieces the exact length required, and had them along with some extra parts, ready for pickup the next day. He was an absolute pleasure to deal with and demonstrated all the traits of a true problem solver. I wish more people were like him.

C Melo

1718723338

Got referred to Mark (The stairlift Store) from a friend of a friend and from the very initial call when I spoke to Mark I knew that he was different from all the other places I had called and I called quite a few of them. Mark was very pleasant to speak to on the phone and listened patiently to all my concerns and educated me also on the product. I had called on behalf of my elderly parents. Mark had scheduled me in for a visit with a wonderful rep named Linda she reached out to me over the phone arranged a time date to meet and went over the locations of where we were going to install the stairlifts (we went with 2 straight stairlifts instead of the curved) we were given the pros and cons of both and decided to go with 2 straight stairlifts (due to stair design) Linda was so pleasant and patient also to deal with throughout the whole process not only did she show up the day of installation to ensure everything was going well but also surprised my parents with ordering the cushion covers for the stairlift to match my parents decor they had….left my parents speechless now that is service. The A++ service didn’t stop there now comes the installation, our installer Adam, well what I can say he was also so pleasant to deal with, he was so professional throughout the whole process and left the working area cleaner than it was after the installation was complete, he was so patient with my parents when he went through the operation of the stairlift , he took the time needed to ensure that they were comfortable with the stairlift and its operation before he left. I am so glad The Stairlift Store has addressed many limitations that my parents had that they no longer have to deal with. I want to send a huge thank you to Mark and his amazing team at The Stairlift Store they had made this process so painless and easy, I would HIGHLY recommend anyone to deal with Mark and his crew at The Stairlift Store.

Robert Musa

1717362652

Mark was patient, friendly and extremely helpful. I had some troubleshooting questions and any time I called, Mark got back to me in short order and answered all my questions. Great customer experience!

David G Bahra

1715268952

"Mark is very helpful even if they do not make a sale. Their commitment to providing the best customer service is highly commendable. I would highly recommend them."

Jean Robertson

1715028412

I’m extremely pleased with The Stairlift Store. I contacted the company on-line on a Sunday , within 1/2 hour Mark called me, set up an appointment and the stairlift was installed on Wednesday the same week. I thought I should get a brand new unit for my husband, but was so pleased, that I was not directed to a new unit, rather to a used unit, which would function better in tight situation. We are extremely please with the unit, with the price , the warranty and with the exceptional service provided by the company. The installer was great too! A great big THANK YOU to you all!

Dave Little

1714075976

Mark provided excellent service in dealing with service issues that other companies could not resolve. My parents and I appreciate all your help.

Betty Calvert

1713987350

Thank you for the excellent service. Our stairlift has been installed within a day of initial contact. Frank was very knowledgeable and pleasant to deal with and installation was very efficient.

Sanjoy Acharya

1712867810

Mark & Glen make a good team. Mark even arranged a demo for us, before we bought the “Synergy” straight model. So far, it seems a sturdy piece of hardware, looks nice too. Frank put it in for us in less than two hours

Straight Stairlifts vs. Curved Stairlifts

Comparing Mobility Solutions

What’s the Big Difference?

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Straight and Curved Stairlifts

About Us

Get in Touch