As we or our loved ones get older, accessibility in the home becomes an important factor. Reaching different levels of the house and climbing staircases is one of the biggest challenges.
Fortunately, there are good solutions like home elevators or stairlifts. But which one is right for you? In this guide, we will take a deep dive into both of these options.
Comparing Elevator Vs. Stairlifts
Home elevators are small elevators that can be installed inside a home. They make reaching different levels of the house easier.
In contrast, stairlifts are simple motorized chairs. They are easier to install in general and can be mounted to an existing staircase. So, if you want a plug-and-play solution, a stairlift is the better choice.
However, there is more nuance to this. Home elevators and stairlifts differ in terms of costs, ease of installation and even customizability. Let’s deep dive into these differences.
Home Elevator Vs. Stairlift: Cost
Home elevators are more expensive than stairlifts overall, which makes sense. These are small elevators that need proper installation.
On the other hand, a stairlift is much cheaper. You can get a decent stairlift for about $2,500 to $5,000. But a decent home elevator can cost you up to $20,000. While some start at as low as $10,000.
Neither one is inexpensive, which is why quality home elevators or stairlifts from reliable sellers like HomeLift will give you some peace of mind.
Home Elevator Vs. Stairlift: Installation
Installation is a bit tricky. Home elevator installation processes are more involved. With elevators you might need to remodel your home a bit if there is no space.
They come with additional machinery like the motor and elevator shaft. So, you will need a permanent space in your home to install a home elevator.
On the other hand, stairlifts are more versatile. They can fit into most existing staircases. Some can even fold away when not in use which saves even more space.
There is a caveat, though. Depending on how the staircases in your home are set up, you might need multiple stairlifts, which can add additional cost and complexity.
Home Elevator Vs. Stairlift: Reliability
Both home elevators and stairlifts are decently reliable. You will need to do some annual maintenance for both of them. However, home elevators, being a bit more complex, will need some additional maintenance.
Focus on finding trustworthy sellers who will install it properly and provide support and high-quality service. We do not recommend skimping on the initial purchase. Settling for a cheap one will only cost you more in the long run for maintenance.
Home Elevator Vs. Stairlift: Design and Looks
Stairlifts might be easier to install, but their appearance might not be the same for everyone. You will need to install rails and the platform itself too! These things might be difficult to conceal, impacting the look of your home.
Some stairlifts can fold away easily, though. So, if you do not have any problems with how the rails and platforms look, stairlifts are a good option.
Home elevators require a more permanent space, so they might also change the look of your home! If you are already remodeling your home, a home elevator might be the better choice.
However, they do not look that odd. If you properly plan the installation and design, home elevators give you plenty of options to conceal components like the elevator shaft.
Do not get us wrong though, people will still notice there’s an elevator in the home. However, it does not look that disruptive. Besides, an elevator can be used for multiple things as well.
Home Elevator Vs. Stairlift: Versatility
Home elevators are significantly more versatile than stairlifts. They function just like any elevator but are just inside your home. So, you can also carry heavy things to different levels of the house.
Stairlifts are more single-purpose. They are designed only to carry people to different levels of the house. Additionally, you might need multiple stairlifts installed in different staircases.
A home elevator will also give you access to all levels of your house from a single place. If installed properly, a home elevator can look much cleaner and complement your home’s aesthetic.
Does a Home Elevator Increase Your Home’s Value?
A home elevator can add up to 10% to your home’s value. Adding a home elevator can pay off big time if you plan to sell your home later.
However, the tricky bit is that a home elevator might be a bit overkill if you do not need the features it provides. They are more involved and, in some cases, warrant a house remodel.
Whereas a stairlift won’t necessarily add any value to your home. But they are easy to take off and once you do not need them anymore.
Which One Is Right For You?
Choosing between a home elevator and a stairlift will depend on what you need. Other things you should keep in mind are the cost, your space and also what you plan to do in the future.
When Is a Home Elevator The Right Option?
Here’s when you should get a home elevator.
- If you are remodeling your house
- If you cannot get up from a wheelchair
- If you think you will transport heavy items
- If you need access to multiple levels from one place
When Is a Stairlift the Right Option for You?
This is why you should get a Stairlift:
- If you want a cheaper solution
- If you plan on removing the stairlift down the line
- If you do not need access to multiple levels from one place
- If you do not plan to haul heavy items to different levels often
Wrapping Up
Either a home elevator or a stairlift will help you reach different levels of your home. Choose the one that makes the most sense for you at the moment.
Additionally, keep in mind that while a home elevator might increase the value of your home, it is more involved and might include slight remodeling.