Stairlifts are life-changing for individuals living with mobility challenges. Stairlifts make it possible to avoid expensive, disruptive moves and remain at home even after pain, eyesight, or weakness make using the stairs difficult and unsafe.
Southern Mobility Solutions sells home stairlifts in New Orleans to customers throughout the region who want to live independently at home. After years of helping clients with their stairlift purchases, we’ve compiled a list of 7 of the most common questions customers ask. We’re sharing what we’ve learned so you can feel more confident as you consider a stairlift for your home.
- What if my staircase stops, starts, or turns?
Stairlifts are available to fit any type of staircase. In the case of stairs that feature landings, fan steps, or switchbacks, custom-made curved rails are used to move the chair from top to bottom on one smooth path. There is a chairlift for your stairs and our team will help you find it.
- Will the rails tear up the walls?
No. The stairlift rail support legs are attached to the stair treads, not the wall. This means stairlifts are easy to install and don’t require additional construction or reinforcement. It also means they can be installed on stairs that don’t have a wall for all or part of the way.
- Will the support legs tear up the stairs?
No again. The support legs are attached to the treads using screws that leave small holes. If your stairs are carpeted, the screws go through the carpet and, when removed, the holes are generally not visible. In all other cases, the holes left behind can be filled unobtrusively.
- What if I want to get new carpet?
You’ll need to remove the stairlift prior to installing new carpeting. It’s not a problem and can often be done the same day – pull out the stairlift in the morning, have the carpet installed, and then reinstall the lift. Just talk to your contractors to coordinate the timing.
- Do I have design options?
Stairlift rails come in different sizes, colors, and materials. We’ll show you samples so you can see your choices and get what you want. You can also choose colors for the seat and cushions that will blend with your home’s décor.
- Is riding a stairlift comfortable?
The answer is yes! Stairlifts provide a safe, comfortable ride up and down the stairs. You can add comfort by selecting a seat that accommodates your shape and size. Additional options are available to further enhance comfort, such as a reclining seat that tips back ever so slightly when in motion, adjustable footrests, and even a semi-stand option that assists users who struggle to fully bend their knees. A member of our team will walk you through all your options to make certain you get the best system for your needs and comfort.
- Does installation require any construction modifications?
The most common adjustment needed during installation is the addition of an electrical outlet. Your stairlift requires a power supply to keep the battery charged. If there isn’t already an outlet near the top or bottom of the stairs, one will need to be added.
Trust Southern Mobility Solutions
Today is a great day to start planning your new stairlift chair in New Orleans. Don’t risk climbing those stairs one more time; install a chairlift and access all your home with ease. Call Southern Mobility Solutions for more information and a free in-home consultation.