A safer way to keep every level of your home usable—without remodeling the whole staircase
A stair lift can be one of the most practical accessibility upgrades for an Eagle-area home: it supports aging in place, reduces fall risk on stairs, and helps you stay independent. The best results come from planning the install around your staircase layout, user needs, and long-term reliability—not just choosing a chair that “fits.” Below is a clear, homeowner-friendly guide from Idaho Custom Lifts & Elevators to help you make confident decisions before scheduling a stair lift installation.
1) What “stair lift installation” really includes
Many homeowners picture a simple “bolt it on and go” job. A professional stair lift installation is more than mounting a chair—it’s a coordinated process that ensures the lift runs smoothly, stops where it should, and remains safe over years of daily use. Most installs include:
• A site visit to measure the staircase, landings, and any obstructions (doors, trim, radiators, vents).
• Selecting the correct lift type (straight vs. curved) and seat configuration.
• Verifying electrical needs and charging location.
• Anchoring the rail to the stair treads (typically), aligning the track, and programming limit points.
• Testing safety sensors and user controls, then training the homeowner and caregivers.
Stairway chairlifts and platform lifts are covered by the ASME A18.1 safety standard (the current edition is A18.1-2023), which addresses design, installation, operation, testing, and maintenance expectations. (webstore.ansi.org)
2) Choosing the right type: straight, curved, or platform lift
The “right” solution depends on the stairs and the user—not just budget.
If the user needs wheelchair access, a platform lift is often more appropriate than a chairlift. For commercial or public-facing spaces, platform lifts are addressed within ADA accessibility standards and must meet referenced safety standards. (access-board.gov)
Helpful local note
In Eagle and the greater Treasure Valley, many homes have split-level entries or garage-to-main-floor stair runs. A stair lift can solve that daily pinch point—especially during winter when outdoor steps and icy walkways increase fall risk.
3) What we measure (and why it matters)
Accurate measurement is what keeps a stair lift from feeling “in the way.” During a home assessment, installers typically look at:
Staircase length and angle: determines rail length, speed expectations, and ride comfort.
Top and bottom landing space: enough room to get on/off safely without crowding a doorway or hallway.
Clear walking path: important for family members who will still use the stairs on foot.
Obstructions: door swings, trim profiles, newel posts, vents, and low ceilings.
User fit: seat height, swivel behavior at the landing, armrest height, and belt reach.
Stairlifts are governed under the safety standard for stairway chairlifts and platform lifts (ASME A18.1), which frames how equipment should be installed, tested, and maintained for safety. (webstore.ansi.org)
4) Quick “Did you know?” facts that affect comfort and safety
Charging is part of reliability
Most modern lifts use a battery system with a charger; placement matters so the unit consistently “parks” where it charges.
A swivel seat isn’t optional for many users
A controlled swivel at the top landing can reduce the risk of stepping off toward the stairs.
Platform lifts are different from chairlifts
ADA standards address platform lifts (not stair chairs) for many accessibility-route scenarios and reference ASME A18.1 for compliance. (access-board.gov)
5) Step-by-step: How a professional stair lift install typically goes
Step 1: A home assessment (measurements + user needs)
We confirm the staircase layout, landing space, and where the lift should park. We also ask who will use it (height, mobility, cane/walker use, caregiver support), so the seating and controls feel natural.
Step 2: Product selection (features that matter every day)
We focus on practical details: seat swivel and lock, footrest sensors, call/send controls, armrest ergonomics, and how the rail affects stair usability for the rest of the household.
Step 3: Installation day (rail, chair, power, programming)
The rail is anchored, the drive and seat are installed, and the unit is programmed to stop precisely at safe transfer points. We verify smooth travel, correct speed, and reliable charging/parking.
Step 4: Safety checks + homeowner training
We test safety edges/sensors and go through everyday operation: seat belt use, safe transfers, folding the seat/footrest, and what to do if the unit stops. A lift is only as safe as the habits around it.
Step 5: Maintenance planning
Stair lifts and platform lifts are part of a larger safety ecosystem of inspection and maintenance practices covered by ASME A18.1. A simple preventative schedule helps reduce downtime and extends service life. (asme.org)
6) Eagle, Idaho local angle: planning for real homes (and real winters)
Homes in Eagle often blend open floor plans with split entries, bonus rooms above garages, and staircases that are heavily used year-round. A few local considerations we see often:
Seasonal footwear: bulky boots can affect comfort and safe transfers—footrest height and landing space matter.
Guest traffic: you may want a fold-up seat/footrest configuration that keeps the stairway comfortable for visitors.
Future needs: if wheelchair use is a possibility, it’s smart to discuss whether a platform lift or residential elevator plan fits better long-term.
If you’re weighing options beyond stair chairs, explore our residential solutions here: Residential Elevators, Stair Chairs & Wheelchair Lifts.
Ready to talk through a stair lift installation in Eagle?
Idaho Custom Lifts & Elevators is a family-owned, full-service team serving the Treasure Valley with design, installation, service, and maintenance for stair lifts and accessibility equipment. If you want a recommendation based on your staircase and mobility needs, we can help you sort it out without pressure.
FAQ: Stair lift installation in Eagle, ID
How long does a stair lift installation usually take?
Many straight stair lifts can be installed in a single visit once the correct unit is on hand. Curved lifts may require additional lead time because the rail is made for your staircase.
Will a stair lift damage my stairs?
The rail is typically anchored to the stair treads (not the wall). When removed, the remaining fastener holes are usually small and repairable. We’ll review mounting options during the assessment.
Can a stair lift work during a power outage?
Many units operate on batteries that charge when parked at a charging point. Battery performance depends on use frequency and maintenance, so we recommend routine service checks.
Is a stair lift considered ADA compliant?
ADA accessibility standards commonly address platform lifts used as part of an accessible route and reference ASME A18.1 for platform lift compliance. Stairway chairlifts are a different device category, and ADA needs for a commercial space should be evaluated case-by-case. (access-board.gov)
Do you service and maintain stair lifts after installation?
Yes—ongoing maintenance is key to reliability. If you’d like ongoing support for lifts and related accessibility equipment, see our service options here: Lift Maintenance in Boise & the Treasure Valley and Elevator Sales, Support, and Service.
Glossary (plain-English)
Stairway chairlift
A powered chair that rides along a rail installed on a staircase, designed to carry a seated rider up or down.
Vertical platform lift (VPL)
A lift with a platform (instead of a seat) intended for wheelchair or scooter users, moving vertically between landings.
ASME A18.1
A safety standard covering platform lifts and stairway chairlifts, including guidance for design, installation, inspection, testing, and maintenance (latest edition listed as A18.1-2023). (webstore.ansi.org)
Call/Send controls
Buttons placed at landings that let you bring the lift to you or send it to the other floor—helpful for multi-user homes.