The Truth About Installation
You are considering a stairlift but are worried it might damage your home. This concern stops many people from taking that crucial step towards regaining their independence. Let’s put your mind at rest with the facts about stairlift installation.
The Simple Truth: Stairlifts Don’t Damage Your Walls
Here’s the biggest misconception about stairlift installation: many people think the rail mounts to the wall. It doesn’t. Professional straight stairlifts and curved stairlifts attach directly to your stair treads, not your walls.
This mounting method eliminates the risk of wall damage. Your walls remain untouched throughout the entire process.
How Stairlift Installation Really Works
Step-by-Step Installation Process
When you book a professional stairlift installation service, here’s what actually happens:
Step 1: Assessment and Measurement Our trained surveyors measure your staircase precisely. They check the width, angles, and any obstructions to ensure the perfect fit.
Step 2: Rail Preparation. The rail comes in sections that are joined together. Mounting brackets attach to the rail before it’s positioned on your stairs.
Step 3: Secure Mounting to Steps. The rail is fixed to your stair treads using sturdy brackets. Each bracket attaches with just a few screws to the solid wood of your steps.
Step 4: Final Assembly The chair, motor, and safety features are installed onto the rail. Everything’s tested thoroughly before handover.
The entire process for installing straight models takes just 2 to 4 hours, and even complex curved installations are typically completed within 4 to 6 hours.
Why Stairlifts Mount to Steps, Not Walls
There are solid engineering reasons for this approach:
Structural Strength: Stair treads provide far stronger mounting points than walls, especially modern plasterboard walls that couldn’t support the combined weight of the lift and user.
Installation Flexibility: Every staircase is different. Mounting to steps allows the rail to follow your stairs’ exact angle and dimensions perfectly.
Minimal Home Alteration: Your home’s structure remains completely intact. No major modifications needed.
What About Damage to My Stairs?
The Reality of Minimal Impact
Yes, small screw holes are located in your stair treads. But we’re talking about just a few screws per mounting bracket, typically positioned every other step.
For Wooden Stairs: Any holes left behind can be easily filled with standard wood filler and sanded smooth. Most people can’t even tell where the brackets were once they’re removed.
For carpeted stairs, the brackets go through the carpet and into the solid step beneath. When removed, you might see small indentations where the weight rested, similar to furniture marks. A good vacuum or steam clean usually lifts these out completely.
Professional Installation Makes the Difference
Our engineers at Obam come equipped with protective padding and proper tools to minimise any impact on your home. We take pride in leaving your stairs looking almost exactly as we found them.
The mounting is so discreet that after professional removal, it’s nearly impossible to tell if a stairlift was ever there.
Can Stairlifts Be Removed Later?
Absolutely. Stairlift removal is straightforward and causes minimal lasting impact.
The process involves:
- Unscrewing the mounting brackets
- Lifting away the rail sections
- Filling any small screw holes
- Touch-up work if needed
This reversibility is one of the major advantages of the step-mounting system. You’re not making permanent alterations to your home’s structure.
Common Installation Concerns Answered
“Will the rail stick out too much?”
Modern stairlift rails extend just 15cm from the wall, leaving plenty of room for others to pass safely. The chair folds neatly against the wall when not in use.
“What about my handrail?”
Professional installers work around existing handrails. The stairlift rail typically mounts on the opposite side of your stairs, preserving your existing safety features.
“Can it go around corners?”
Custom curved stairlift options handle turns, landings, and complex stair layouts. Each curved rail is precision-manufactured to fit your exact staircase dimensions.
“What about electrical work?”
Battery-powered stairlifts simply plug into a standard household socket. No special electrical installation is required, and they continue working during power cuts.
Protecting Your Investment
Regular Maintenance Keeps Everything Running Smoothly
Once installed, proper stairlift maintenance protects both your investment and your home. Regular servicing ensures:
- Smooth operation
- Extended lifespan
- Minimal wear on mounting points
- Continued safety certification
Professional Installation Matters
While some might consider DIY installation, professional fitting ensures:
- Correct rail alignment
- Secure mounting to proper load-bearing points
- Full safety testing
- Warranty protection
- Compliance with safety standards
At Obam, we’ve been installing mobility solutions for over 20 years. Our experienced engineers understand exactly how to fit your stairlift with minimal impact on your home.
Making the Decision
Worrying about potential damage shouldn’t stop you from reclaiming your independence. Modern stairlift installation is:
- Non-invasive: No major home modifications
- Reversible: Can be removed with minimal trace
- Professional: Installed by qualified engineers
- Quick: Completed in hours, not days
The small, easily-repairable marks left by mounting brackets are a tiny price to pay for the freedom and safety a stairlift provides.
Your Next Step Forward
Don’t let fears about home damage keep you from enjoying full access to your home. Professional stairlift installation protects both your property and your well-being. Ready to reclaim your independence without worrying about your walls or stairs? Contact our expert team at Obam today for a free, no-obligation assessment. We’ll show you exactly how a stairlift can fit your home with minimal impact and maximum benefit.
