Stairlift types
Hinged Stairlift Rails: Solving Hallway & Doorway Obstructions
A stairlift rail must extend slightly past the bottom step so the seat can park level. If that would block a door or create a trip hazard in a narrow hallway, a hinged rail lets the bottom section fold up out of the way when the lift is not at the bottom.
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How a hinged rail works
Lift parked at the top
The hinged section at the bottom stays folded upright, clearing the hallway or doorway.
Lift called down
The hinged section lowers to meet the floor before the carriage reaches it.
Seat arrives at the bottom
The user gets on, rides up, and the section folds up again behind them.
Manual vs powered hinges
| Manual hinge | Powered hinge | |
|---|---|---|
| Operation | Lifted and lowered by hand | Folds automatically |
| Best for | Users or carers who can bend and lift easily | Users who ride alone or cannot bend |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
Powered hinges are the more practical choice for most people living alone, since the rail must be lowered before the lift can come down.
Alternatives to a hinge
- Slide-track rail: the whole rail slides up the stairs as the carriage rises, so nothing protrudes at the bottom.
- Park bend (curved models): the rail curves round at the bottom to park the seat out of the way.
- Shorter overrun with steeper start: sometimes possible; the surveyor will advise.
Your surveyor should identify this at the home survey.
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