Categories Stairlifts & Home Lifts

Stairlifts vs Through Floor Lifts | Which Home Lift is Right for You?

The Wessex VE Through-Floor Enclosed Home Lift

When it comes to improving accessibility in your home, two of the most common solutions are stairlifts and through floor lifts. While both provide safe and practical mobility, they are designed for very different users. Choosing the right option depends on your mobility needs, your home layout, and your long-term independence.

Stairlifts: Who Are They For?

A stairlift is one of the most familiar types of home lift. It runs on a rail attached to your staircase and carries you up and down in a seated position.

Stairlifts are suitable for people who:

  • Can walk on flat ground but find stairs challenging
  • Have enough leg movement to sit and stand safely
  • Do not rely entirely on a wheelchair

While some wheelchair users attempt transfers, stairlifts are not designed for this purpose. They require significant upper body strength, and manufacturers generally advise against wheelchair-to-stairlift transfers, as they can present safety risks.

Installation: Stairlifts are usually quick to fit. Most are installed within 2 to 6 hours.

Pros

  • Fast installation
  • Fits neatly onto the staircase
  • Does not require additional house space
  • Safe, quiet, and easy to use

Cons

  • Not suitable for wheelchair users
  • Slightly reduces staircase width

Through Floor Lifts: Designed With Wheelchair Users in Mind

Through floor lifts offer a safe and practical option for wheelchair users. Instead of navigating a staircase, the user stays in their wheelchair and travels vertically between floors. This eliminates the risks involved with transfers and ensures full independence.

Key features include:

  • Travel from ground to first floor without leaving your wheelchair
  • Fold-down seat option for users who prefer to walk into the lift and sit
  • Quiet, smooth operation with unobtrusive design

Installation: Through floor lifts are more complex to install than stairlifts. They require a cut-out in your floor and take around 2 to 3 days to complete.

Pros

  • Provides independence for wheelchair users
  • Does not restrict or alter the staircase
  • Safe, reliable, and user-friendly

Cons

  • Longer installation (2–3 days)
  • Requires dedicated space at both levels of the home

Which Option Is Right for You?

Both stairlifts and through floor lifts are excellent when used for their intended purpose. If you can still walk but have difficulty climbing stairs, a stairlift is a simple, cost-effective choice. For wheelchair users who want safe, independent access to all levels of their home, a through floor lift is the ideal solution.

It is always best to consult with an Occupational Therapist before choosing. They can help assess your individual needs and ensure you select the most suitable, safe, and future-proof option for your home.

Expert Guidance From Irish Stairlifts & Bathrooms

At Irish Stairlifts & Bathrooms, we have over 20 years of experience helping people across Ireland regain independence in their homes. Whether you need a stairlift or a through floor lift, our team can guide you through the process—assessment, installation, and aftercare.

Contact us today for a free home consultation and expert advice on the best mobility solution for you. Visit irishstairlifts.ie or call our team to take the next step toward safer, more accessible living.

Author ISBMobility Categories Stairlifts & Home Lifts
Categories Outdoor & Independence Solutions

What Is Disabled Access? Guide for Homes & Businesses

Disabled access ensures that people with mobility challenges, including wheelchair users, can enter, move around, and use a building safely and independently. This includes clear pathways, step-free entry, and accessible facilities in all key areas.

Key Features of a Wheelchair-Friendly Building

A truly accessible building should provide:

  • Step-free or ramped entrances.
  • Wide doors and corridors for wheelchair turning.
  • Level access thresholds at all doors.
  • Accessible bathrooms with transfer space at the WC and level-entry showers.
  • Clear access to all essential areas, not just a few rooms.

If only parts of a building are accessible, it may be considered partially wheelchair friendly.

Are Public Buildings in Ireland Fully Accessible?

Most older public buildings are not fully wheelchair accessible. Modern buildings usually meet accessibility standards, but retrofitting older structures can be costly or limited by space. New builds in Ireland are now required to consider accessibility during planning.

Are Irish Homes Disability-Friendly?

Most homes in Ireland are not fully accessible due to:

  • Multiple floors without lifts.
  • Steps at entrances.
  • Narrow doorways.
  • Bathrooms that are difficult to access.

New accessible homes are often single-level with level or ramped approaches, wide doors, and spacious bathrooms. Older homes can be adapted but may face space limitations.

Solutions for Full Wheelchair Access at Home

For homes with enough space:

  • Through-Floor Lifts: Move between floors safely, though a room may need to be sacrificed.
  • External Lifts or Ramps: Provide safe step-free entry.
  • Bathroom & Doorway Adaptations: Widen doors, install level access showers, and add transfer spaces.

These changes improve independence and safety.

Mobility Solutions for Aging in Place

For individuals with limited mobility but no full-time wheelchair needs:

  • Stairlifts: Installed with minimal disruption.
  • Level Access Showers: Replace baths for safer bathing.
  • Safe Steps & Grab Rails: Wider treads, shallower risers, and grab rails improve safety at entrances.

These adaptations balance convenience with safety for independent living.

FAQ: Disabled Access in Ireland

What grants are available for disabled access?

The Housing Adaptation Grant for People with a Disability helps cover stairlifts, level access showers, ramps, and bathroom adaptations. Apply via your local authority.

Can older homes be adapted for wheelchair access?

Yes, with options like stairlifts, through-floor lifts, widened doors, and level-access showers, though structural changes may be required.

Are public buildings fully accessible?

Not all. New buildings meet accessibility standards, but older buildings may require costly modifications.

What’s the difference between a level access shower and a wet room?

Both offer step-free entry. A level access shower uses a slim tray, while a wet room has a fully waterproof floor. Both improve safety.

How can I make my home safer for aging in place?

Consider stairlifts, level-access showers, grab rails, ramps, and wider doors to reduce fall risks and make daily life easier.

Conclusion

Ensuring your home or business is accessible doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right adaptations—like stairlifts, level access showers, ramps, and grab rails—you can create a safe, comfortable environment that supports independence for everyone. Whether you’re planning a full wheelchair-accessible home or simply need practical solutions for aging in place, thoughtful modifications make a real difference.

Take the Next Step with Irish Stairlifts

At Irish Stairlifts, we specialize in custom accessibility solutions for homes and businesses across Ireland. From professional stairlift installations to stylish level access showers and ramps, our team can guide you through every step of the process. We also assist with Grant applications to make your adaptations more affordable.

Contact us today to discuss your accessibility needs and discover how our products and expert services can help you stay independent and safe in your home.

Author ISBMobility Categories Outdoor & Independence Solutions
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