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Outdoor Stair Lifts: Costs and Installation
The average outdoor stair lift costs $14,500, though the actual cost depends on the type of staircase, available outdoor space, and more.
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At a glance:
- Outdoor stair lifts cost between $4,000 and $25,000 on average, with the final price dependent on additional safety features such as safety sensors, seatbelts, and footrests, as well as the type of staircase.
- The average outdoor stair lift installation costs between $1,000 and $5,000, with custom curved lifts or advanced models generally on the higher end of the estimate.
- Outdoor curved stair lifts are more expensive ($12,000 – $25,000) than outdoor straight stair lifts, which typically range between $4,000 – $12,000.
Whether you have a raised deck or need to ascend the steps to your mountainside home, many seniors rely on outdoor stair lifts as much as on in-home solutions. These weather-resistant mobility tools work for both straight and curved staircases, though costs will vary based on type.
To ensure seniors aren’t investing in the dark, we’ve investigated both straight and curved stair lift installation costs, parts, and features for outdoor models. That way, you can have a safe, affordable way to navigate outdoor spaces, regardless of length, climate, or weather conditions.
What Is An Outdoor Stair Lift For The Elderly?
Outdoor stair lift technology is similar to indoor stair lifts, with the primary difference being weather-resistant materials and features. Common materials include extruded aluminum or steel rails with marine-grade vinyl or weatherproof fabric for seats.
Generally speaking, the chair lift moves along a railing that’s screwed to the stair treads, transporting seniors up and down outdoor decks and staircases. The railing can be straight or customized for curved stair lifts.
Outdoor Curved Stair Lifts vs. Outdoor Straight Stair Lifts
In outdoor settings, different types of stair lifts will have different costs. Whether your outdoor staircase is straight or curved, here’s what to expect:
Outdoor Straight Stair Lifts
- Total cost range: $4,000 – $12,000
- Installation costs: Typically $1,000 – $2,000, depending on stair length and material
Cost-effective and easy to install, straight stair lifts can fit most decks or entryways. This simplicity also makes it easier to find affordable rental or refurbished options, as little to no customization is required.
Outdoor Curved Stair Lifts
- Total cost range: $12,000 – $25,000
- Installation costs: Typically $2,000 – $5,000 due to increased complexity
In most cases, curved lifts must be customized to the staircase, as well as the bottom and top landings. While this process adds safety and stability, it also increases both manufacturing time and cost. Understandably, this can also make it more difficult to find used options.
Examples of Outdoor Stair Lift Model Prices
We’ve compared popular outdoor stair lift companies, including models and their standout features, to help you find the best stair lift model for your outdoor space. Use this guide, along with stair lift reviews, to narrow down the companies you want to work with. Most companies offer free quotes tailored to your specific needs.
Outdoor Stair Lift Model Prices
| Brand | Stair Lift Features | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Bruno Elite Outdoor Stair Lift | – Custom, hand-crafted railings – 400 lb weight capacity – Marin-grade vinyl seat – Wireless call/send remotes – Gold warranty | $12,000 – $18,000 |
| Harmar 350 Outdoor Stair Lift | – Dual steel rail – Extruded aluminum track – Marine-grade vinyl seat – Weather-proofing – Safety sensors | $8,000 – $12,000 |
| AmeriGlide Outdoor Deluxe Stair Lift | – 350 lb weight capacity – Weatherproof design – Protective covers – Basic safety features | $3,800 – $5,500 |
| Legacy Classic Outdoor | – Weather-resistant build – Protective coating – Basic safety features | $3,000 – $5,000 |
Outdoor Stair Lift Installation Costs
Installing a high-quality outdoor stair lift typically costs between $1,000 and $5,000. Costs depend on factors such as the length, additional features, climate, and type of staircase. The straight stair lift installation process is generally more affordable and timely, costing only $1,000 – $2,000 and lasting just a few hours.
On the other hand, curved stair lift installation can cost up to $5,000. Curved lifts also take longer to install—about a day on average, if they are already pre-measured and custom-fitted.
Ultimately, the cost of your new outdoor stair lift installation will be based on your unique circumstances.
How To Reduce The Cost of an Outdoor Stair Lift
Having trouble paying for your stair lift? Luckily, outdoor lifts are no harder to cover than their in-home counterparts. Though Original Medicare (Parts A and B) is still unlikely to offer assistance, there are several other financing options available:
- Medicare Advantage and Medicaid might cover the cost of an outdoor stair lift if you can provide a relevant medical diagnosis and a doctor’s note of medical necessity.
- Veterans’ benefits through the Veterans Administration (VA), including Veterans Directed Home and Community-Based Services (VD-HCBS) and Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) grants, can help senior veterans cover outdoor lifts.
- State-based assistance programs that differ from state to state, including HCBS waivers, can also provide financial assistance. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA) for more information.
- Loans and financing plans secured through either your personal bank or the stair lift manufacturer can make costs more manageable. Just be mindful to avoid high monthly payments or interest rates.
- Rebates or Tax Deductions for outdoor stair lifts that fall under IRS Publication 502’s list of eligible medical expenses and are deemed medically necessary by a doctor are available to seniors.
Outdoor Stair Lift Frequently Asked Questions
Outdoor stair lifts are often made from a combination of weather-resistant metals and fabrics, including rails made from extruded aluminum and steel and swivel seats made from marine-grade vinyl and other outdoor-ready fabrics.
The average cost of an outdoor stair lift is $14,500, or between $4,000 – $25,000. The wide price range is due to the differences between straight and curved models, as well as the inclusion of advanced safety features.
The installation costs for an outdoor stair lift range between $1,000 – $5,000, depending on the type of lift. Many straight stair lifts cost less than $2,000 to install, while customized curved lifts can increase the price to $5,000 or more.
Yes, many outdoor stair lifts use rechargeable batteries stored in weatherproof compartments. They also often feature backup battery capabilities for added safety during power outages.
Whether or not you should invest in a new or used lift depends on your staircase layout and mobility needs. For example, if you’re recovering from a surgery or illness, used options may be a great temporary solution. However, used lifts can also be harder to find for curved staircases.
While stair lift installation isn’t complicated, we always recommend working with a professional to avoid costly mistakes or safety hazards.
Year-round outdoor stair lift maintenance—routine inspections, lubrication, cleaning, and battery checks—costs between $150 – $400. You can help prevent expensive repairs by:
– Wiping down the rail and seat upholstery weekly to remove dirt, leaves, and moisture
– Checking for rust, corrosion, or weather-related wear
– Applying weather-resistant lubrication
– Using the protective cover when the lift is not in operation
– Scheduling a professional inspection at least once per year
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