Outdoor Stairlift
CHALLENGE: Create a safe and easy way to go up and down a 12-step outdoor flight of stairs.

SOLUTION: Install an outdoor stairlift.

The client for this project was a senior citizen with balance problems and was having a difficult time going up and down the stairs to his home. The entrance to his home was at the top of a 12-step flight of stairs which was outside. He was able to walk, but he would have more difficulty in the coming years so an outdoor stairlift would provide a safe and effective means for him to continue using his stairs.

The home is located in southern California with a mild climate. We used a stairlift with an attached cover to protect it from the occasional days of rain and other outdoor elements. The cover easily folds down around the lift when not in use. When the stairlift is needed, the cover is lifted up and out of the way of the seat, footrest, and armrests and remains attached to the unit.

Before beginning installation, precise measurements were taken of the rise and run of the steps and overall length of the stairway. The track was then custom-made to fit the specifications. After installation of the track was completed, the stairlift unit, complete with cover, was attached to the track.

Control panels were mounted at the top and bottom of the stairs. The stairlift can be moved or stopped using these controls. The stairlift also has a button on the armrest to control movement.


Stairway going up to the entrance of the home.


Stairway looking down from the top of the stairs.


The stairlift can be controlled from a button on the armrest or from fixed control panels located at the top and bottom of the stairs as pictured here.


The cover folds up and out of the way of the stairlift but remains attached to the unit. This photo illustrates how the footrest and armrests fold up and out of the way for easy transfers. The seat can also be folded up to allow additional clearance for using the stairway.

For more information about modifying your home for improved accessibility and safety, call us toll free at (866) 902-9800.

To find more examples of stairlift projects by Accessible Design & Consulting see our Straight Stairlift and Curved Stairlift pages.



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