Wondering about a stairlift vs home elevator? Either is a big decision that can greatly improve mobility, safety, and peace of mind for you or a loved one. With so many options, features, and considerations, it’s important to ask the right questions before moving forward.
At Total Home Access, we help homeowners across the Greater Vancouver area find customized mobility solutions that fit their needs, home layout, and lifestyle. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top questions to ask before buying a stairlift or home elevator, so you can feel confident and informed.
1. What Are My Specific Mobility Needs?
Before choosing a product, start by identifying your current and future mobility needs:
- Are stairs becoming more difficult or unsafe to manage?
- Will the lift be used by someone who uses a wheelchair or walker?
- Are we planning ahead for aging in place or responding to an immediate need?
Why it matters: A stairlift might be ideal for someone with stable mobility who simply struggles with stairs, while a home elevator can be a better long-term solution for wheelchair users or people with progressive conditions.
2. Is My Home Suitable for a Stairlift or Elevator?
Every home is different—but that doesn’t mean accessibility solutions are out of reach.
For stairlifts:
- Is your staircase straight or curved?
- Are there landings or tight corners?
- Will the lift be installed on the left or right side of the staircase?
For home elevators:
Many people are surprised to learn that Total Home Access offers shaftless home elevators that require minimal space. These compact elevators are designed to fit discreetly into your home without the need for a shaft or a mechanical room. They can be installed almost anywhere, including through a closet, in the corner of a living room, or even in open-concept layouts.
Bottom line: Whether you have a tight staircase or limited square footage, our team can assess your home and recommend a solution that fits beautifully into your space.
3. What’s the Difference Between a Stairlift vs Home Elevator?
Both stairlifts and home elevators help you move safely between floors, but they offer different features and serve different needs.
A stairlift is a motorized chair that runs along a rail mounted to your staircase. It’s a great solution if you’re still mobile but have trouble with stairs. Stairlifts are typically quick to install—often within a day for straight staircases—and they take up very little space. However, they’re not ideal for wheelchair users, and they remain visible on your staircase.
A home elevator, especially the shaftless models we offer at Total Home Access, provides a more seamless and future-proof solution. These compact elevators require no shaft or mechanical room and can be installed in a variety of spaces within your home. They’re quiet, smooth, and fully wheelchair accessible. Installation usually takes just a few days, and the elevator can be customized to suit your home’s design and layout.
In short, stairlifts are best for those with moderate mobility challenges and simple staircases, while home elevators offer a more versatile, long-term solution—especially for those using mobility aids or planning to age in place.
4. What Safety Features Are Included?
Safety is essential when installing any accessibility equipment. Ask your provider about:
- Emergency stop buttons
- Seat belts and swivel seats (for stairlifts)
- Obstacle sensors
- Battery backup systems in case of power outages
- Soft start and stop for a smooth ride
Total Home Access installs stairlifts and elevators with industry-leading safety features, giving you and your family peace of mind.
5. Will This Add Value to My Home?
While stairlifts and home elevators are often installed for safety and accessibility, many homeowners also wonder whether these improvements will impact their property value. The answer depends on several factors—but in many cases, accessibility upgrades can make your home more desirable, especially as demand grows for age-in-place features.
Home elevators:
Shaftless home elevators are particularly appealing because they offer modern convenience without requiring a major remodel. Their minimal footprint, sleek design, and ability to blend with your home’s interior can increase overall functionality while making your home more attractive to buyers who value long-term accessibility.
Stairlifts:
Although stairlifts are typically considered temporary or removable upgrades, they may increase the appeal of your home to buyers with limited mobility. And because they can usually be removed without permanent changes to the staircase, they don’t negatively affect resale value.
If resale value is a key concern, our team can help you select a discreet, well-integrated solution that enhances—not detracts from—your home’s appearance and layout.
6. Are There Funding or Grant Options Available?
Home accessibility upgrades may be eligible for government assistance or tax credits. Ask about:
- BC RAHA (Rebate for Accessible Home Adaptations)
- Veterans Affairs Canada support
- Disability tax credits
- Medical expense claims on your income tax return
We’re happy to help you identify programs you qualify for and assist with the paperwork when possible.
7. Who Installs and Services the Equipment?
Make sure your installation is handled by experienced professionals. Ask:
- Is installation done by trained in-house technicians?
- Do you provide service and support locally?
- Is a warranty included for parts and labour?
- What’s the turnaround time for repairs or maintenance?
Total Home Access is a local company with a dedicated team of technicians serving the Greater Vancouver area. We handle everything from installation to ongoing service and support.
8. How Long Will the Installation Take?
Your timeline will depend on the type of product and any required home modifications.
- Straight stairlifts: Usually installed in 1 day
- Curved stairlifts: Take a little longer due to custom rails
- Shaftless home elevators: Most installs are complete in just a few days, with minimal disruption to your home
If you need a quick solution, we’ll work with you to expedite delivery and installation wherever possible.
9. Can the Lift Be Customized?
Many customers want their mobility equipment to blend in—not stand out. Ask about:
- Custom seat or cab finishes
- Flooring options
- LED lighting
- Space-saving or low-profile designs
- Modern or traditional style options
Our home elevators are not only compact—they’re also customizable. Choose from a range of colours, materials, and finishes to match your home’s aesthetic.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re preparing for aging in place, recovering from an injury, or helping a loved one remain independent, a stairlift or home elevator can dramatically improve quality of life. But it’s important to understand your options, evaluate your home, and work with a company that puts safety and service first.
At Total Home Access, we specialize in thoughtful, customized accessibility solutions that work for you now and into the future. From stairlifts to sleek, space-saving shaftless elevators, we’ll help you choose the best solution for your needs, budget, and home.
Want to learn more or book a free consultation?
Contact us today and discover how we can help make your home more accessible, comfortable, and safe.
