Should Stairlifts Be Used Outside?
The simple answer to this question is yes – a stairlift can be used outside.
In fact, a lot of people don’t actually know that stairlifts can in fact be used outdoors as well as indoors. Just as people can have difficulty moving around their home without the assistance of a stairlift, the same applies to gardens and outdoor areas too.
Outdoor stairlifts are specifically designed for use in areas outside of the house, such as your garden, and have slightly different features than those found on a traditional indoor stairlift.
There are a range of impressive benefits that come with installing an outdoor stairlift, but of course, there are other mobility options too that could be suitable.
We’ve put together some helpful information below all about outdoor stairlifts, their advantages, why they differ from indoor stairlifts, and alternative mobility equipment that could improve your lifestyle to ensure that you can enjoy your outdoor space at any time.
What is the Purpose of an Outdoor Stairlift?
Well, it’s pretty much what it says on the tin.
An outdoor stairlift is a stairlift manufactured specifically for use on outdoor stairs or steps.
Being located outside means that outdoor stairlifts are exposed to harsher, more inclement, weather conditions. Being in Britain, this generally refers to rain, rain and more rain!
To help an outdoor stairlift withstand these challenges, they are fitted with robust weather resistant chairs, and a sturdy rail which is designed to cope with sudden changes in climate, which certainly isn’t uncommon across our nation.
Outdoor stairlifts also feature hardwired landing controls allowing you to bring them up and down the stairs, making them suitable for multiple users. Customers also have the option of additional safety features such as;
- Retractable Seatbelts
- Safety Footrests
- Swivel Seats
- Operational levers
Not all stairlift companies have the capacity, experience, equipment or resources to offer outdoor stairlifts, however our team here at Leodis are proud to be able to offer a stairlift to fit almost any garden.s.
DID YOU KNOW? If you are disabled or have age-related needs, you can apply for a Disabled Facilities Grant to make changes to your home, including stairlift installation or stairlift rental – inside or out!
Where Are Outdoor Stairlifts Normally Used?
Outdoor stairlifts can be used in any area where someone with mobility issues may find it difficult to access.
However, outdoor stairlifts are commonly found outside homes with raised entranceways, on patio or decking stairs, or other areas of a garden that may feature steps that are difficult for anyone with any type of mobility issues to navigate.
Outdoor stairlifts provide you with a cost-effective alternative to installing a ramp which can be much more expensive and disruptive, not to mention that these measure can often dramatically change the look and feel and overall curb appeal of your home.
By installing an outdoor stairlift, you can give anyone with mobility issues the freedom to enjoy and make full use of your outdoor space.
What is the Difference Between an Outdoor Stairlift and a Vertical Platform Lift?
Outdoor stairlifts are not the only option open to you if you are looking to access all parts of your outdoor space. One of the most popular is a Vertical Platform Lift – also known as a porch lift.
The reason for this is that its main use is to assist users in getting from ground level to an elevated area, such as a deck or porch. Because of its make up, a vertical platform is more suited to wheelchair users.
Vertical platforms can be notoriously difficult to install and are not suitable for use on certain types of staircase. This is why outdoor stairlifts are generally a much better option for anyone looking for a solution that makes getting up and and down the stairs a little easier.
If you are struggling to access raised areas of your garden, and would like advice on the different options open to you, we’re only a phone call away!
Can Indoor Stairlifts be Used Outside?
The main difference between an indoor and outdoor stairlift is that outdoor models and the stairlift track itself are specifically designed to withstand poor weather conditions.
There is no doubt that indoor stairlifts are often more aesthetically pleasing featuring woven upholstery and wooden trims, however, these features certainly don’t fare well in the wind and rain.
If you install an indoor stairlift outside, the chances are you’ll end up with a lot more problems than you’d hope for. They would require a lot of maintenance and be subject to frequent breakdowns, and the last thing you want is for your stairlift to be unusable in any situation. It’s just not worth the risk.
This is why outdoor stairlifts have weatherproof seating and durable rails. Our stairlifts are also supplied with a waterproof cover that can be used when you don’t want the seat to get wet!
More than anything, it’s important that you make the correct choice when looking for an outdoor stairlift to give you the peace of mind, flexibility and freedom you want.
So, that’s outdoor stairlifts covered!
Hopefully, our blog post will have given you a greater insight into outdoor stairlifts and will help you pick the model that best meets your specific needs. If you’re still unsure, please feel free to pick up the phone and give us a call on 0800 804 4080 and a member of the Leodis team will be more than happy to offer friendly, professional advice.
Read more about our outdoor stairlifts.
