Stair Lifts
Can You Install a Stair Lift on Narrow Stairs?
Usually yes. Measure the tread width and the folded depth before anyone quotes you.
- Most lifts fold to 13–15 inches of intrusion into the stair width.
- Staircases around 30 inches wide accommodate nearly every major model.
- Below 27 inches, the field narrows to a few slim-profile models.
- Perch seats exist for very narrow stairs where sitting is not possible.
What to measure
Measure the clear width of the tread at its narrowest point, wall to wall or wall to banister. Then subtract the folded depth of the lift you are considering. What remains is the walking space for everyone else in the house.
Anything under about 15 inches of remaining space becomes difficult for another adult to pass safely, especially while carrying something.
Options for very narrow staircases
Slim-profile rails, perch seats where the rider stands supported rather than sits, and in some homes a through-floor shaftless lift instead of a stair lift entirely.
Keep reading
Marcus Thorne
Senior Editor, Mobility Equipment
Marcus covers stair lifts, home elevators, and platform lifts for Home Access Advisor. He spent eleven years estimating residential remodels before moving into consumer publishing, and he reads dealer quotes for a living — which is why most of his guides start with the line items other sites leave out.
Covers: Stair lifts · Residential elevators · Installation pricing · Dealer quotes
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