Stair Lifts glossary
Plain-English definitions of 0 stair lifts terms you will see on quotes and inspection reports.
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Find the word. Read the definition. Check the bid.
Straight rail: a stock rail cut to length for a single straight flight. Curved rail: a rail manufactured to match your staircase, including bends, turns and landings. This is the single biggest price determinant in the category. Rail overrun: the section of rail that extends past the top or bottom step so the seat can park clear of the stairs - worth asking about, because it affects whether the parked lift blocks a doorway.
Perch lift: supports the user in a semi-standing posture for people who cannot bend their knees or hips comfortably. Swivel seat: rotates the seat at the top landing so the user faces flat floor rather than the stairwell; manual or powered. Seat belt: standard on residential lifts and not optional in practice.
Platform lift: carries a wheelchair and its occupant. Inclined platform lift: travels along a staircase. VPL (vertical platform lift): travels straight up, like a small open elevator, typically used for porches and short rises. Fixr prices platform lifts at $5,000-$20,000.
ASME A18.1: the US Safety Standard for Platform Lifts and Stairway Chairlifts, covering design, construction, installation, operation, inspection, testing, maintenance and repair. Rated capacity: the maximum user weight the model is certified for - standard seated lifts are typically around 250 pounds, with heavy-duty models above that.
Three rules for every term
- Ask about rail overrun at the survey It determines where the parked lift sits and whether it blocks a doorway or hallway at either end.
- Do not confuse a VPL with a stair lift A vertical platform lift travels straight up for a short rise. It is different equipment with different siting and permitting implications.
- Get the rated capacity as a number "Standard" is not a specification. Ask for the pounds figure for the specific model in writing.
A-Z stair lifts dictionary
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Glossary terms for this industry are being written.
Where related figures come from
Sources last checked
- Fixr - Stairlift Installation Cost (updated January 31, 2025) · retrieved 2026-07-25
- Bob Vila - How Much Does a Stair Lift Cost? · retrieved 2026-07-25
- ASME A18.1 - Safety Standard for Platform Lifts and Stairway Chairlifts (2023) · retrieved 2026-07-25
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