What is a stairlift?

A stairlift is a mobility system permanently installed on a staircase that helps people with limited mobility travel safely from one floor to the next. In most cases, it is a seated lift that moves along a rail fixed to the stairs. For wheelchair users, platform lifts are available, offering a stable surface for travel.

Garaventa (DE_EN)

Was ist ein Treppenlift

Different kindes of stairlifts

A stairlift is used when climbing stairs becomes a daily strain, for example with age, after surgery, or due to long-term health limitations. The goal is to maintain independence at home and significantly reduce the risk of falls.

Key benefits

  • Everyday safety through smooth, controlled travel
  • Independence, because all floors remain accessible
  • Comfort without physical strain
  • Tailored to your staircase layout and living situation

Requirements explained briefly

To use a stairlift safely and comfortably, a few practical conditions need to be met. First, there must be enough space on the staircase and at the stopping points so the rail and the seat or platform can be installed professionally while keeping the passageway as clear as possible. Just as important are easy, safe entry and exit areas at the top and bottom of the stairs, ideally with a stable standing surface and no trip hazards.

We also check whether the selected model’s load capacity matches the user and whether it can be operated smoothly in everyday use. The staircase layout is another key factor. Straight staircases are usually straightforward to equip, while curved stairs, narrow sections, or intermediate landings require individual planning and often a custom-made rail.


Cost factors at a glance

The cost of a stairlift depends largely on your staircase and the features you choose. Straight staircases are usually less complex, while curved stairs typically require a custom-made rail, which often increases the price.

In addition to the purchase price, installation costs also affect the total, for example due to special building requirements or complex staircase layouts. Over the long term, you should also plan for maintenance to keep the lift safe and reliable. There may also be service costs for repairs, spare parts, or optional services, depending on how each provider organises support.


Grants and funding options

In Germany, financial support may be available under certain conditions, for example if a stairlift makes care at home easier or if there is a documented mobility limitation. Depending on your situation, benefits may be possible through care-related programmes or health insurance providers.

Professional advice is especially helpful here, because it supports you in assessing your personal situation correctly, preparing the necessary documentation, and submitting a clear and complete application.


Possible solutions for your home

The right option depends on your staircase layout, available space, and your personal needs.

Stairlifts are a classic choice for private homes when safe access between floors is the priority. They can be used on straight and curved staircases, as the rail can be adapted to the specific layout. Durable, weather-resistant versions are also available for outdoor stairs, making entrances and access routes comfortable to use again.

Stairlifts

SLK 4000

SLK 4000

For curved staircases indoors & outdoors.


Platform lifts are the right choice when a wheelchair is used or when a seated lift is not sufficient. The stable platform allows safe travel without transferring, offering added everyday security for people who need more support.

Plattform lifts


Lifting platforms and home lifts can be a smart alternative when you need to overcome larger height differences without using a traditional staircase route, or when several people in the household need an accessible solution. Depending on the building and how it is used, they offer more flexibility between levels and can be a particularly comfortable long-term addition as part of home adaptation.

Vertical platform lifts & home lifts

Opal

Opal

For height differences from 1.80 to 3.00 m

Luma

Luma

The homelift that travels through the ceiling


Garaventa Lift in Germany

Garaventa Lift offers solutions tailored to your staircase layout, living environment, and personal mobility goals. The focus is on safety, practical everyday ease of use, and an installation that fits your home both functionally and visually.

What sets Garaventa Lift apart

  • Personal advice focused on your staircase, how you use it, and the comfort you need
  • Made-to-measure planning for straight and curved staircases, including special installation situations
  • Professional installation based on precise on-site measurements
  • Reliable service to ensure long-term safety and consistent performance

This creates a solution that supports your mobility not only today, but for the long term in your own home.

We have the perfect solution for you.

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  • Our sales team

    Our sales team

  • Martin Creutz

    Martin Creutz

    Sales support

  • Armin Finauer

    Armin Finauer

    Sales support south east


Weitere Beiträge von Garaventa Lift

Stairlift narrow stairs

Stairlift narrow stairs

Narrow or tight staircases can quickly become a barrier in everyday life. A stairlift for narrow stairs offers a safe and space saving solution while keeping the staircase usable. In this guide you will learn in a clear and practical way what counts as a narrow staircase, where a stairlift can be installed, which options exist for straight and curved stairs, what alternatives are possible, and what costs are realistic.


Stairlift alternatives

Stairlift alternatives

In many homes stairs are the main way to move around until climbing them suddenly becomes a strain. This can happen gradually or very quickly after surgery, an accident, or because of a chronic condition. Then the question is not only which stairlifts are available but also which alternatives to a stairlift might be the better solution.



Stairlift prices, installation and grants at a glance

A stairlift is a proven home mobility solution when steps start to feel like obstacles. Depending on the type, it can be used as a seated lift or as a platform option for wheelchair users and for people using walkers or other mobility aids, including for outdoor access. This keeps multiple floors safely reachable for many people as they age and makes everyday life at home noticeably easier.

What influences stairlift prices

The total cost mainly depends on the installation situation, the length of the rail system, and the number of floors to be covered. For curved staircases, custom rail manufacturing is often required, which can increase the price. The final cost is also affected by the chosen features and technical configuration, as well as installation and commissioning, including key safety functions.

Planning and choosing the right solution

It’s worth comparing different providers and offers to ensure the model, seating comfort, positioning, and controls truly fit your home. Before installation, an advisor typically checks the stair width, the best installation location, and the required safety features, and then recommends a suitable seated solution or a platform option for wheelchair users.

Grants and funding options

Grants and subsidies can make the purchase much easier. Depending on your care level, the long-term care insurance fund may contribute with cost coverage or a subsidy. In some regions, additional support such as KfW programmes or loans may also be available. This assistance can improve cost planning and make the right solution more achievable.

Alternative lift options

For smaller height differences or specific building conditions, a lifting platform can be a good choice. A vertical lift or home lift may be an alternative to a classic stairlift when moving between floors or separate living areas needs to be especially comfortable.

Service and maintenance

Regular maintenance and service help ensure smooth, reliable operation and can significantly improve quality of life. Many customers also pay attention to quality, design, technology, and clear contract terms when choosing a provider.

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