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Do stair lifts turn corners?

Author

Emma Payne

Published Jan 21, 2026

Stairlifts can go round corners. Stairlifts can be fitted to most stair configurations, speak to Acorn who can professionally advise the best solution for your staircase, whether this be a straight or curved stairlift, the best solution will be offered depending on your circumstances.

Can a stair lift turn?

What is a Curved Stair Lift? A curved stairlift is a customizable stairlift, designed for stairs that turn. Curved stairlifts can be installed on all sorts of stair configurations, ranging from simple 90° turns, all the way to long spiral staircases.

How do stairlifts go around corners?

The style of the main staircase in your home will dictate the type of stairlift you decide upon. If your stairs are curved, then a curved stairlift will need to be installed. Curved stairlift tracks turn corners, as they are fixed to a curved rail that follows the exact shape of your staircase.

Do chair lifts go around corners?

Have you ever wondered if stairlifts go around corners? The short answer to this is yes! It is possible to get curved stairlifts. You can install stairlifts to most stairway configurations.

Does Acorn stairlift go around corners?

Here at Acorn Stairlifts we manaufacture stairlifts to fit most staircase types, they can travel round corners, spiral staircase and across landings. Our stairlifts can be designed for each individual staircase.

41 related questions found

Why is my Acorn stairlift beeping?

If your lift is beeping or making a chirping noise it's an indication it's not receiving a charge voltage and needs immediate attention. This beeping sound can occur even when the lift is not being used.

Can stairlifts go around landings?

Straight stairlifts use a straight rail to go up a single flight of stairs. Curved stairlifts have rails that are manufactured to follow the direction and angle of the stairs. This allows them to traverse landings or follow the path of a spiral staircase.

Can ski chairlifts turn corners?

It's doable. Many detachable lifts have a corner midstation. Actually it's not too hard to make them since grips can detach from the rope.

How much space do you need for a chair lift?

The distance needs to be a minimum of 29″ wide to fit a stairlift, and most staircases are strong enough to hold a stairlift. Every staircase is different, so there are times when the minimum width required is more or less than 29″. There are also other factors, such as the height of the user of the stairlift.

Can you get a stairlift for curved stairs?

Stairlifts can usually be fitted to most types of staircases, even ones that may first appear too narrow. At Stannah, we offer a wide range of stairlifts for both straight and curved staircases. We're confident that our range of stairlift solutions includes an option that will suit both you and your home.

How does a curved stair lift work?

Curved stairlifts operate via a made-to-fit curved rail fitted directly onto the staircase. Curved Stairlifts most of the time are powered by a battery connected to the mains to charge. There will be a charging point at the bottom and top of your stairs. So you don't need to worry about charging it.

What is a straight stair lift?

Straight stairlift tracks can only travel in straight lines, they cannot turn a corner or go around a bend. Straight stairlifts are suitable for use where a stairlift only needs to travel in one straight line; without any interruptions from landings or platforms, turns or curved steps.

How wide do my stairs need to be for a stairlift?

Generally speaking, straight stair lifts can only be installed on a staircase that's at least 28 inches wide. Curved stair lifts need approximately 30 inches. These measurements are from the farthest obstruction, meaning that molding, handrails, and other projections can reduce your staircase width.

What is the minimum width of staircase for a stairlift?

As a rule of thumb, the minimum width of a staircase that we can usually install a stairlift in is around 75cm (29.5 inches). Stairlifts require at least 75cm of space on the staircase to be installed and used.

Can you fit a stairlift on any stairs?

Can stairlifts go around corners on curved stairs? Yes absolutely! You can get lifts for all kinds of stairs, including straight, curved with bends (even multiple bends), narrow, multi-flight town houses and even spiral stairs.

Can Ski lifts turn?

Most lifts with turns are detachable systems with angle stations which are very expensive. But not all lifts that need to turn require loading or unloading mid-way.

Does Alta have high speed lifts?

Since then, Alta has upgraded a number of their aging lift infrastructure to high-speed quads. Most recently, the Cecret and Supreme double and triple chairs were replaced by one high-speed, detachable quad.

Can you put a chair lift on stairs with a landing?

There are basically two types of chair lifts for stairs with landings: Straight chair lifts are the most economical and easiest/quickest to install. They are used with stairways that do not have any curves, bends or twists. Curved chair lifts are best suited for stairways with a change in direction, even a small one.

How do I know if my stairlift is charging?

Follow wire from charger to rail and make sure it is plugged in. Yellow– this is a good sign meaning your stairlift is charging. Green– this means your chair is fully charged and ready for use.

How long do stair lift batteries last?

How long do stairlift batteries last before they need to be replaced? Stannah stairlift batteries generally last around 3 to 5 years, of course this depends on the usage and if the stairlift is often left off its charge point.

Do stair lifts use a lot of electricity?

The simple answer is no. After you have a stair lift installed in your home, you shouldn't see any significant difference in your monthly utility bill. Stair lifts actually use much less power than other common household appliances such as washing machines, electric stoves, and dryers.

Are stairlifts attached to the wall?

A common myth with the installation of a stairlift is that when fitted in to your home they are fixed and attached to the wall, this however is incorrect and they are actually fixed to the stair treads and not wall. The stairlift is mounted on to the stairlift track which runs the length of the staircase.

Can I install a stair lift yourself?

Can I install it myself? It is possible to buy a straight stair lift as a do-it-yourself installation, but like many DIY projects, it is important to know what is involved before you choose this option. You may need to hire an electrician to ensure power is available where you need it.