They solve the same problem in very different ways. A side-by-side look makes the choice easier.
What each one is
- Stair lift. A powered chair that rides a rail along your staircase.
- Home elevator. An enclosed cab that travels vertically between floors.
Cost
- Stair lift: the low-cost option by a wide margin.
- Elevator: a major home improvement.
Time to install
- Stair lift: hours, often within days of ordering.
- Elevator: weeks to months including planning and building work.
Who can use it
- Stair lift: someone able to sit, stand and transfer safely.
- Elevator: anyone, including wheelchair and walker users.
What it carries
- Stair lift: one seated person.
- Elevator: people, laundry, luggage, groceries.
Floors served
- Stair lift: one staircase per lift. A home with a basement needs two.
- Elevator: every level from one cab.
Effect on the house
- Stair lift: none structurally, and it is removable.
- Elevator: permanent, and often a selling point.
Choose a stair lift if
- The need is immediate
- The budget is limited
- The rider is steady getting on and off a chair
- You may move within a few years
Choose an elevator if
- A wheelchair is used, or likely to be
- You intend to stay for the long term
- You have three levels in daily use
- You are building or remodeling anyway
You can do both, in order
A stair lift now, an elevator later. The lift comes out cleanly when it is no longer needed.
Have both priced
See our stair lifts and home elevators. Call Nationwide Lifts of Michigan on (810) 346-1037 or request a free in-home evaluation.