A lot of people want to enjoy their golden years in the comfort of their home. However, as you age, your home may not be able to meet your changing needs. You may find it more difficult to access certain parts of your home. That’s why it’s highly recommended that you convert one of the rooms on the ground floor into a master bedroom and bathroom.
What if you don’t have a lot of space on the ground floor? There’s the option of installing a stairlift. As the name suggests, it’s a motorized lifting device fitted with a chair that can transport you between floors. If you’re considering installing one, here are the factors you need to consider.
1. Stairlift Design
There are two main types of stairlifts: straight stairlifts and curved stairlifts. The former is installed on straight staircases while the latter is custom-made for curved staircases. There’s a third type called an inclined platform lift, which is used by homeowners who need wheelchairs and mobility devices.
2. Stairlift Size & Staircase Width
If you have a narrow staircase, we recommend choosing a stairlift with a foldable chair. Alternatively, you can choose a standing stairlift.
3. Capacity
Keep in mind that you need to make sure your stairlift offers the right capacity. In general, standard stairlifts can support up to 280 pounds.
4. Price
Since curved stairlifts are custom-made, they’re more expensive than straight stairlifts. However, you shouldn’t get too preoccupied with the costs of the stairlift. Focus instead on the features that can help you live independently. If you’re having trouble choosing a stairlift, consult one of the mobility remodeling contractors at DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen.
Will Installing a Stairlift Damage Your Walls?
A common misconception among homeowners is that installing a stairlift will damage their walls. However, since the stairlift track is attached to the stair treads and not the wall, installing a stairlift won’t damage walls.
Other Essential Features of an Aging-Friendly Home
Aside from a ground-level bedroom and bathroom or a stairlift, these are the other essential features of an aging-friendly home:
- Non-slip flooring. Slippery floors pose a safety risk. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 30 million Americans suffer falls every year, with one in five falls resulting in serious complications. That’s why non-slip bathroom and kitchen flooring are essential features in an aging-friendly home. To learn more about your non-slip flooring options, consult a bathroom and kitchen contractor.
- Wide doorways. Wheelchairs and mobility devices won’t be able to fit through a regular doorway (which is 28 to 32 inches wide). How wide should your doorways be? The National Association of Home Builders recommends a doorway width of at least 32 inches, while the Americans with Disabilities Act recommends a hallway width of about 48 inches.
Let’s Start a Conversation!
Looking for “contractors near me”? DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Orland Park offers a wide range of professional bathroom remodeling services. To get started on your project with a no-obligation consultation, call us at (708) 320-3417 or send us a message online. We serve residents of Orland Park, Homer Glen, Lemont and Palos Park, as well as the surrounding communities.
