When purchasing a stairlift, the second most important thing to do in addition to researching the different options and safety features available is to make sure that it is properly fitted and installed. A poorly fitting seat or product that is not installed correctly will not only make it less comfortable to use, but also put you and the members of your household at risk for safety concerns and hazards.

When measuring, there are many different things to consider. Most dealerships and authorized contractors who provide in homw installation will do the measuring for you to make sure that the product is properly fitted and the right match for the stair case you are planning on using the equipment for.

When Measuring you will want to make sure that you take into different considerations. You will need to know how many stairs you have, the length of each step, the overall pitch of the stair case, the distance from the top to bottom, and the width of the staircase. All of these measurements will help you make a choice on what type of lift will best fit your individual needs and preferences. You will also want to make sure that you take into consideration which side of the stairs you will be placing the rail and chair, since it may make a difference. Another thing to consider is that some lifts are mounted to the actual steps themselves, while others are mounted to the wall instead. a

Installation is best left to a professional or other experienced and licensed installer for your own safety. If you or someone you know however is experienced and comfortable with installing stair lifts on your own, then it can be done and it may be able to save you the added expense of hiring someone to do it for you. Some rail systems cannot be sold without professional installation, whereas others are designed with consumers to install themselves in mind. For example, Ameriglide lifts come with detailed instructions and a step by step video to help explain the installation process and the materials needed. A video is an excellent way to ensure that you are following the directions properly.

Each individual product will have its own product specifications and factory installation recommendations. If you do decide to install the lift on your own, be sure to follow those instructions exactly to ensure a proper installation and maximum safety.