In this case study a change of stairlift user required more space to be created for tight corners. In most stairlift installations, we will install the lift for the largest person in the house, even if the stairlift isn’t for them. That way, should they ever come to need to use the stairlift, they can.
But this installation was a difficult one, and the stairlift was already pushing the limits in terms of its position on the stairs. We often use the Flow X stairlift for difficult staircases. It’s particularly agile and nimble. See our post on stairlifts for narrow stairs for more information.
However, despite this stairlift’s versatility, even this model has its limits.
When the other household member started using the stairlift, there was an issue. He was considerably bigger than his partner, with longer legs. This created the problem when it came to negotiating the tight corners and bends on the staircase.
Case Study Change Of Stairlift User
The main problem was the top of the stairs, where his knees would clash with the top newel post. So the client would have to move his legs awkwardly to get around the bends.
So despite the stairlift having been carefully fitted, we needed even more room out of this installation. This was going to be a challenge, but one we gladly accepted. Or, rather our top stairlift engineer Scott Whitworth did, anyway!
The Challenge – Reinstall The Stairlift & Create More Space
Scott was able to reposition the stairlift rail and reprogram the stairlift to achieve this objective. Despite the rail being pretty tight against the wall already, a small repositioning allowed for more manoeuvrability.
Here you can see just how much the rail actually was moved by the indentation in the stairs carpet. So even a tiny movement such as this was enough.
Summary
In this case study we saw a change of stairlift user which required the position of the stairlift to change. This was a difficult one, and it was testimony to Scott’s decades of experience that he managed to reposition and reprogram the lift to accommodate the larger user.
Here at UKStairlifts we specialise in stairlifts for difficult stairs. We have built a reputation of installing stairlifts where other’s have said it cannot be done! So if you have a difficult or awkward staircase, and you would like us to take a look, give us a call on 0800 046 3438 or visit our contact page and leave us a message.
You can also check out some of our videos on our YouTube channel here.