Although less commonly required than stairlifts, we do supply through floor lifts when required. A through floor lift does require a bit more planning however. With a normal stairlift, the stairlift is installed to the stairs, and doesn’t affect any of the household otherwise. But with a through floor lift, there’s a host of things which need to be surveyed beyond the staircase layout.
For example, a through stairlift lift needs a hole cutting in a suitable room/space. This isn’t always an option and will depend on your home. In the first instance the survey will establish where the lift will go. Call 0800 046 3438 to book a free survey.
Building regulations need to be met – an asbestos certificate may required on older buildings. The floor weight limit is an important factor too. Before a through stair lift can go in, a hole needs to be cut. Cutting through joists to create the hole for the lift shaft will weaken the floor joists. So they will need to be supported and strengthened.
There’s also plumbing and gas considerations, ensuring that all boxes are ticked and that nothing is left unchecked. The last thing you need when installing a through floor lift is to hit an electrical wire, water pipe or gas main!
Though Floor Lift – Cost, Installation & Lead Time
Before a through floor lift can be installed, the above room must be clear of furniture and any obstructions. Before the lift shaft goes in, there’s a liner which goes in first. The hole is cut with the liner dimensions in mind, usually by the lift manufacturers and the lift slots into the liner. The lift is then built inside the liner to precise tolerances.
Due to the extra work needed for a through floor lift, they are generally more expensive than a standard stairlift. Standard stairlifts start at around £1,250 for a reconditioned straight and go up in cost with more complexity – curved stairlifts starting around £2,950. See our stairlift prices for more information.
With a through floor lift, you’re looking at a starting cost of around £15,000, depending on the complexity of the installation. The time taken to install the lift is between 2 and 5 days, compared to only a few hours for a standard stairlift. From order to installation day can take from between 6-12 weeks and the lift will be ordered to specification according to the size requirements and your house specifications.
Through Floor Lifts Versus Standard Stairlifts
You may require a through floor lift if you are unable to use a standard stairlift. For example if you use a wheelchair and want to be able to travel between floors with your chair. If you are over a certain weight limit for a stairlift, a through floor lift may be an alternative to a heavy duty stairlift – if you are too heavy for the higher weight capacity lift. Higher weight stairlifts can carry up to 30 stone (Bruno Heavy Weight Stairlift). If your staircase is particularly narrow, and you need a heavy weight lift, the Platinum Ultimate is another option but only carries up to 25 stone.
A Platinum Ultimate Stairlift – Weight Limit 25 stone
If you struggle getting on and off a stairlift, a through floor stairlift might be an option. The typical weight limit of a through floor stairlift can vary; but they can take up to 40 stone. This measurement includes any mobility aids, such as a wheelchair.
If you’re in any doubt as to your needs when it comes to a stairlift, call our team and speak to an advisor. They can help you determine which stairlift is best for your budget and your needs.
Summary
A through floor stairlift might be an option if a normal stairlift doesn’t meet your needs. For instance, if you need to use specialist equipment while climbing the stairs, a wheelchair, for example. A recent client of ours had difficulty using the Platinum Ultimate stairlift we had installed and a through stairlift became the only solution.
Although the Platinum Ultimate is a heavy weight stairlift, our client was in hospital when we installed it. When they came out, their mobility was so limited that they couldn’t mount the lift and sit in the seat properly.
Because of this the through stair lift was recommended and eventually installed.
Whether you need a through stairlift or a standard stairlift, we’re here to help! Give us a call on 0800 046 3438 or visit our contact page here. You can also browse some of our installations on our YouTube channel here.