Is My Staircase Too Narrow for a Stairlift?
If you live in Leeds or the wider West Yorkshire area and have a slim, twisting, or awkward staircase, you might be wondering: is it too narrow for a stairlift? The good news is that in most cases, the answer is no.
Modern stairlift technology means that even very narrow stairs – including those with tight corners or unusual layouts – can often accommodate a safe, comfortable lift. At UK Stairlifts Leeds, we’ve fitted stairlifts in some of the tightest spaces imaginable, even in homes where other companies said it couldn’t be done.
How Narrow Is Too Narrow?
The width required for a stairlift depends on the make and model, as well as the shape of your staircase. For example, the Thyssen Flow X can typically handle staircases as narrow as 61cm, thanks to its unique ability to pivot and travel sideways. In certain situations, our engineers have even installed them on slightly narrower stairs.
For staircases around 67.9cm wide, the Stannah 260 is another excellent choice, designed with a seat position further back on the rail to maximise knee and legroom.
Narrow Staircases in Leeds Homes
Many older properties in Leeds – from Victorian terraces in areas like Headingley, Armley, and Chapel Allerton, to 1930s semis in Moortown and Roundhay – have compact staircases that can make fitting a stairlift seem impossible. But with the right stairlift model and custom installation, we can almost always find a solution.
What If My Stairs Have Obstacles?
Obstacles like radiators, doorways, or tight turns don’t automatically mean you can’t have a stairlift. With the right design, curved rails, and space-saving features like folding arms and footrests, we can often work around these challenges without major alterations to your home.
Standing or Perching Stairlifts for Narrow Stairs
If your stairs are extremely tight and you’re physically able to stand or perch while travelling, a standing stairlift might be an option. These take up less space than a seated model, but they’re not suitable for everyone – especially if your mobility needs may change in the future. In most cases, we recommend a seated stairlift for long-term comfort and safety.
The Best Way to Find Out
Every staircase is different, so the only way to know for certain is to have a free home assessment. Our Leeds-based engineers will measure your stairs, discuss your needs, and recommend the most suitable stairlift for your home and budget.
If you’re concerned your staircase might be too narrow, read our full guide on stairlifts for narrow stairs to see the models we recommend and how we make them fit in even the tightest spaces.
📞 Call us on 0800 046 3438 or contact us online to book your free, no-obligation assessment today.
Don’t let a tight staircase hold you back – we’ve helped customers across Leeds and West Yorkshire find the perfect stairlift for their home.
