20+ Years Experience
Specialist Stairlifts
For those with mobility issues, accessing outdoor spaces can be a challenge.
In this blog post, we’ll explore factors to consider when choosing the right outdoor stairlift, top models and brands, as well as installation, maintenance, and financial aspects related to these life-changing devices.
Selecting the perfect outdoor stairlift for your needs is crucial to ensure safety, comfort, and long-lasting performance.
To make an informed decision, you’ll need to consider factors such as straight or curved stairs, weather resistance and protective covers, and safety features complying with European safety standards.
First and foremost, you must determine if your outdoor staircase is straight or curved. Straight stairs lack bends or mid-landings, while curved stairs incorporate these features.
Outdoor stairlifts designed for straight stairs, like the Handicare 1000 Outdoor stairlift, are an ideal choice.
Curved outdoor stairlifts, such as the Hawle external stairlift, are suitable for stairs with bends or mid-landings and are supplied and installed by Dolphin Stairlifts.
To learn more about straight and curved stairlift options, Handicare’s dedicated stairlift pages offer a wealth of information.
Outdoor stairlifts must be able to withstand the elements. They are typically made with heavy-duty, water-resistant materials, ensuring durability and longevity.
Additionally, a weather-resistant outdoor cover protects outdoor stairlifts from adverse weather conditions when not in use.
These features set outdoor stairlifts apart from indoor ones, as they are specifically designed to endure the unique challenges of external use.
For example, the Acorn 130 outdoor stairlift comes with a weather-resistant protective cover, for extra protection.
Safety should always be a top priority when selecting an outdoor stairlift. European safety standards, such as EN 81-41, outline the safety, construction, and performance requirements for stairlifts.
An outdoor stairlift should be equipped with safety features like safety sensors, a lockable swivel seat, a safety belt, pressure-sensitive sensors, a seat belt, an automatic seat lock, an arm position switch, a footrest, a waterproof and UV-protected lap, and weatherproof covers.
Handicare’s outdoor and indoor stairlifts, for instance, come with anti-slip footrests, ensuring secure footing while using the lift.
Navigating the world of outdoor stairlifts can be overwhelming, In the UK, Acorn, Handicare, and Dolphin Mobility are some of the most highly-regarded outdoor stairlift models and brands.
Each of these companies offers a range of options to suit different needs, ensuring you’ll find the perfect solution and fit for your outdoor space.
Acorn Outdoor Stairlifts are designed to provide a secure and reliable means of access to external areas.
They are engineered to be weather-resistant and come equipped with a variety of features to accommodate different requirements and preferences.
The Acorn outdoor stairlifts provide all the features of their straight stairlifts, such as a swivel seat, safety belt, grab rail, and removable key, with additional options tailored to meet various needs.
The Minivator 1000 Outdoor Stairlift, for example, features waterproofing, Slate Grey upholstery with UV protection, and includes a waterproof cover.
Handicare outdoor stairlifts are designed to provide secure and comfortable access to external areas for those with limited mobility.
Both straight and curved models are available, with an outdoor curved one featuring adjustable seat height and width, as well as a chrome-plated rail with tight bends.
Handicare outdoor stairlifts, including the 1000 and 2000 series, offer these features and more, ensuring user-friendly operation and minimal maintenance requirements.
Furthermore, Handicare outdoor stairlifts are constructed to withstand the elements and come equipped with a variety of safety features to ensure user safety.
Dolphin Mobility outdoor stairlifts are carefully crafted to ensure safe and comfortable access to outdoor areas for individuals with limited mobility.
These stairlifts are designed to be weatherproof and highly durable and can be customised with either right or left-handed remote controls.
Dolphin Mobility outdoor stairlifts come equipped with weatherproof joystick control, a lap harness and belt, call and send units (Bluetooth remote control), a continuous charging strip, a telescopic seat, and can be tailored to accommodate right or left-handed controls.
Equally important as selecting the right outdoor stairlift is ensuring proper installation and maintenance.
Professional installation services can guarantee a secure and properly functioning lift, while regular maintenance and servicing can ensure optimal performance and extended longevity.
Utilising professional installation services for your outdoor stairlift offers numerous advantages, such as no need for repairs or redecoration post-installation and no commitment to purchase after the assessment.
Our professional installation services include a complimentary outdoor stairlift survey, the instalment of the free outdoor stairlift quote, and no sales pressure.
Regular maintenance and servicing of your outdoor stairlift can ensure optimal performance, facilitate the detection and repair of any issues, minimise maintenance costs, and extend the longevity of the lift.
It is advised to service a full outside stairlift annually and lubricate the rail every three months.
Regular maintenance and servicing steps include inspecting the stairlift for any indications of deterioration, lubricating the rail, assessing the battery, and verifying the safety features.
Outdoor stairlift costs can range from £3,000 to £5,000, depending on factors such as the type and features of the lift. When considering an outdoor stairlift, it’s essential to be aware of the financial aspects involved.
Fortunately, financial support may be available through the Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) for eligible individuals.
The average cost of a straight outdoor stairlift typically falls between £2,000 and £4,000, while the average cost of a curved outdoor stairlift is usually between £5,000 and £10,000.
However, the exact price may vary depending on the length and complexity of the staircase, any necessary additional features, and the particular make and model of the stairlift.
The price for vertical lifting, for example, typically ranges from £3,000 to £5,000.
The Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) is a government grant administered by local councils to assist eligible older and disabled individuals in making necessary adaptations to their homes, such as installing an outdoor stairlift.
Eligibility requirements for the DFG may differ between councils but generally encompass age, disability, and financial criteria.
The application process for the DFG typically involves submitting an application form and providing documentation to prove eligibility.
The DFG can be employed to cover the cost of purchasing and installing outdoor stairlifts, as well as any modifications to the home that may be needed to accommodate the outdoor stairlift cost.
Outdoor stairlifts offer numerous benefits, including increased independence, improved safety, and enhanced accessibility.
They enable individuals with limited mobility to navigate outdoor stairs comfortably and securely, allowing them to enjoy their outdoor spaces freely.
Outdoor stairlifts are designed with safety as a top priority.
They are equipped with safety features such as seat belts, footrest sensors, and obstruction sensors to detect any obstacles on the stairs.
Additionally, they have robust braking systems to ensure secure stops and prevent any unintended movements.
If you’re looking to get a stairlift for free, you should reach out to your local council office. They will point you in the right direction to apply for grants and aid you may qualify for.
Be sure to submit your completed application forms to the relevant department and follow up on your requests regularly.
In conclusion, outdoor stairlifts are a life-changing solution for individuals with mobility issues, providing safe and comfortable access to outdoor spaces.
When selecting the right outdoor stairlift, consider factors such as straight or curved stairs, weather resistance, and safety features.
Top models and brands in the UK include Acorn, Handicare, and Dolphin Mobility.
Professional installation and regular maintenance are crucial for optimal performance and longevity.
Finally, financial considerations, such as average costs and potential support from the Disabled Facilities Grant, should be taken into account.
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