Choosing the Right Stairlift for Your Home
The type of stairlift you need depends primarily on the shape of your staircase. Below is a complete guide to every type available in Ireland, along with their approximate costs and key differences.
Straight Stairlift
A straight stairlift is designed for staircases that run in a single unbroken line from bottom to top with no bends, turns, or intermediate landings. It is the most common type installed in Irish homes.
- Best for: Standard straight staircases in terraced, semi-detached and detached homes
- Guide price: €2,500 – €4,500 new / €1,200 – €2,500 reconditioned
- Installation time: 2–4 hours
- Lead time: Often available within 1–2 weeks
The rail is fitted to the steps themselves (not the wall), so no structural work is required. When not in use the seat and footrest fold away, leaving a clear passage for other household members.
Curved Stairlift
A curved stairlift is required whenever the staircase changes direction — including gentle sweeps, 90-degree turns, 180-degree turns, and staircases with an intermediate landing. The rail is custom-manufactured to fit the exact geometry of your staircase.
- Best for: L-shaped and U-shaped staircases, Victorian terraced houses, older Irish homes
- Guide price: €5,000 – €10,000+ new / €3,000 – €5,500 reconditioned
- Installation time: Half day to full day
- Lead time: 4–8 weeks (rail must be custom manufactured)
Irish homes note: Many older Irish terraced and semi-detached properties have staircases with a small curve or dog-leg at the top or bottom. Even a minor deviation from straight means a curved rail is required.
Spiral Stairlift
A spiral stairlift is a specialised curved stairlift for staircases that spiral continuously around a central pole. They are the most complex and expensive type to manufacture and install.
- Guide price: €8,000 – €15,000+
- Lead time: 8–12 weeks
- Reconditioned availability: Rare — custom rails are property-specific
Outdoor Stairlift
Outdoor stairlifts are designed for external steps leading to a front door, garden, or outbuilding. They are weatherproofed and built to withstand the Irish climate, with UV-resistant covers and corrosion-resistant components.
- Guide price: €3,500 – €6,000 new
- Best for: Steps to front or back door, steep garden paths, outbuildings
Perch Stairlift
A perch (or standing) stairlift is designed for people who have difficulty bending their knees, such as those with severe arthritis or a knee replacement. The user leans against a padded rest rather than sitting fully. Available in both straight and curved versions.
Reconditioned Stairlift
Reconditioned stairlifts are professionally refurbished pre-owned units. They are available for straight staircases (and occasionally curved), are fully safety-tested, and typically come with a supplier warranty. They offer the greatest savings — often 30–50% less than new. See our dedicated new vs reconditioned guide for more detail.
Which Type Do I Need?
| Staircase shape | Stairlift type needed |
|---|
| Straight, no bends | Straight stairlift |
| Any bend, turn or landing | Curved stairlift |
| Spiral around central pole | Spiral stairlift |
| External steps | Outdoor stairlift |
| Difficulty bending knees | Perch stairlift (straight or curved) |