Two kinds of outdoor stairs give Michigan homeowners trouble. The first is the set of steps up to the porch, slick with ice half the year. The second is the long flight down a bluff to the lake, which becomes harder every summer. An outdoor stair lift can take care of both.
Porch and entry steps
A short rail follows the steps from the walkway to the porch. You sit, belt up and ride. It suits anyone who walks but does not feel safe on outdoor steps in winter.
Stairs to the lake
Homes on Lake Michigan, Lake Huron and many inland lakes sit above the water, with dozens of wooden steps to the beach. A stair lift can run long distances, and it lets grandparents get down to the dock again.
- The stairway must be sound and reasonably straight
- Landings and turns may call for a custom rail or more than one lift
- On dune and bluff properties, check what local and state shoreline rules allow before adding structures
Built for outdoors
- Weather-resistant rail and hardware
- Sealed electrics
- A waterproof seat and a fitted cover
- A key switch
Through a Michigan year
- Winter. Brush off snow, keep the cover on, use a metal-safe de-icer.
- Spring. Rinse off salt and grit.
- Summer. Keep sand out of the rail on beach stairs.
- Fall. Clear leaves and book a service.
Seasonal properties
At a cottage, the chair can be removed and stored for the winter. Ask about this at the survey.
For wheelchairs
A stair lift carries a seated person only. A platform lift is needed for a wheelchair.
Have your stairs assessed
See our stair lifts. Call Nationwide Lifts of Michigan on (810) 346-1037 or request a free in-home evaluation.