Make stairs comfortable again—without remodeling your home
Stair lifts are one of the most straightforward ways to improve day-to-day mobility in a multi-level home. For many Boise homeowners, a stair lift supports aging in place, reduces fall risk, and keeps favorite spaces usable—basements, bedrooms, laundry rooms, and garages—without the cost and disruption of major construction. The key is a professional stair lift installation that fits your staircase, your routines, and your long-term plans (including service and maintenance).
Why stair lift installation quality matters (more than most people expect)
A stair lift looks simple—rail, chair, and controls—but the installation determines how safe, smooth, and dependable it feels over time. A well-installed unit should:
• Start and stop smoothly without “lurching”
• Park neatly (often at the top or bottom) to keep walkways clear
• Keep footrest, armrest, and seat height comfortable for transfers
• Maintain safe clearance on narrow stairways
• Provide reliable charging and battery backup for typical Idaho power interruptions
Stairway chairlifts are covered under the ASME A18.1 safety standard (commonly referenced by jurisdictions for platform lifts and stairway chairlifts). Professional installers work within these safety expectations and manufacturer requirements, which is one reason professional installation is strongly recommended. (asme.org)
Step-by-step: what a professional stair lift installation typically includes
1) Staircase assessment (measurements + real-life use)
Your installer measures tread depth, rise height, stair width, landings, headroom, and any obstructions (handrails, door swings, vents, or trim). They also ask practical questions: Which side is best for transfer? Where should it park? Who will use it, and with what mobility needs?
2) Equipment selection: straight vs. curved, indoor vs. outdoor
A straight lift fits a staircase with no turns. A curved lift is custom to bends, intermediate landings, or spiral-like layouts. Outdoor lifts typically include weather-protective finishes and components suited to exposure and temperature swings.
3) Power & charging plan (battery-backed operation)
Many stair lifts run on batteries and charge at a designated point (or along the rail). Your installer identifies the best outlet location and ensures the charging arrangement matches manufacturer requirements for consistent performance.
4) Rail mounting (secured to the stairs, not the wall)
Most rails mount to the stair treads. This is a common misconception: the wall is usually not the structural mounting point. Proper fastening and alignment are what keep the ride quiet and stable.
5) Safety setup and user training
Your installer tests seat swivel/lock (when applicable), seat belt, footrest safety edges, obstruction sensors, call/send controls, and the final stopping points. Then they show you how to use it safely—including how to park it and what to do if it stops mid-travel.
When a stair lift is the right answer—and when another lift may fit better
Stair lifts are ideal when a person can transfer into a seat and ride up/down safely. If a wheelchair user needs to remain in their chair, a vertical platform lift (VPL) or other accessibility solution may be a better fit. Platform lifts and stairway chairlifts are addressed under ASME A18.1, which reflects industry safety best practices for design, installation, inspection, and maintenance. (asme.org)
A quick rule of thumb
• Stair lift: best for seated travel and quicker installation on an existing staircase
• Wheelchair/platform lift: best when you need to stay in a wheelchair or move a walker safely between levels
• Home elevator: best for frequent multi-level use, broader accessibility, or long-term home planning
If you’re weighing options, Idaho Custom Lifts & Elevators can help you compare solutions during a site visit, including residential stair lifts, wheelchair lifts, and residential elevators.
Comparison table: common stair lift choices for Boise homes
| Type | Best for | Typical considerations | What to confirm during install |
|---|---|---|---|
| Straight stair lift | Single run with no turns | Fastest path to better access | Parking location, outlet/charging, footrest clearance |
| Curved stair lift | Landings, turns, complex stairs | Custom rail, more planning and lead time | Smooth transitions on turns, safe top/bottom transfer points |
| Outdoor stair lift | Porch/deck steps, garage access | Weather exposure, snow/ice planning | Protective cover, drainage/splash zones, reliable charging location |
| Heavy-duty or wider-seat options | Extra comfort, specific fit needs | Stair width and clearance become more critical | Clearance at knees/shoulders; no interference with doors/handrails |
Not sure which category your home falls into? Start with a measurement visit—many “simple” staircases hide obstacles like door swings at the landing, tight turns, or HVAC returns that change what will fit comfortably.
Boise & Treasure Valley angle: inspections, certifications, and doing it the right way in Idaho
Idaho regulates many types of conveyances through the Idaho Elevator Program (within the Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses). The state publishes program information including adopted codes and a fee schedule for items such as platform lifts, material lifts, and dumbwaiters. (dopl.idaho.gov)
Practical takeaway for Boise projects
• If your project is a stair lift, your installer should still follow applicable safety standards and manufacturer requirements, and you should plan for ongoing service.
• If your project is a platform lift (wheelchair lift), dumbwaiter, or commercial elevator, inspections/certifications are much more likely to be part of the process.
• For commercial properties, ADA requirements also influence which equipment can serve as an accessible route (for example, freight elevators generally can’t be used to meet accessible-route requirements). (access-board.gov)
If you’re a property manager, you can also learn more about ongoing care on our commercial elevator service and inspection page, or explore maintenance options for lifts and accessibility equipment.
Plan for longevity: service, maintenance, and what to watch for
Stair lifts are dependable when they’re maintained. Most service calls come down to a few preventable issues:
• Battery aging: a lift may slow down or stop if batteries can’t hold charge
• Charging problems: the unit isn’t parking on the charge point, or the outlet/charger has an issue
• Obstruction faults: footrest or carriage sensors detect contact (often from rugs, trim, or stored items)
• Track cleanliness: dust or debris can affect smooth operation over time
A good maintenance plan helps you avoid downtime—especially important when the stair lift is the primary way someone can reach bedrooms or bathrooms.
Ready to schedule stair lift installation in Boise?
Idaho Custom Lifts & Elevators is a family-owned, full-service team based in Boise—supporting design, installation, service, and maintenance for stair lifts, wheelchair lifts, home elevators, dumbwaiters, and more throughout the Treasure Valley.
FAQ: Stair lift installation in Boise
How long does stair lift installation usually take?
Many straight stair lifts can be installed in a single visit once equipment is ready. Curved lifts often require more lead time because the rail is built to your staircase.
Will a stair lift damage my walls or stairs?
Stair lift rails are typically mounted to the stair treads, not the wall. Professional installation focuses on secure fastening and clean routing so the lift looks intentional and stays stable.
Do stair lifts work during a power outage?
Many modern stair lifts are battery-backed and can continue operating for a period of time when the power is out, as long as the batteries are in good condition and the unit charges properly when power is on.
Is a stair lift “code compliant” in Idaho?
Stairway chairlifts fall under the ASME A18.1 safety standard, which provides guidance for design, installation, inspection, and maintenance. Your installer should follow applicable codes and manufacturer requirements, and help you understand any inspection or permitting considerations based on your specific project. (asme.org)
What’s the difference between a stair lift and a wheelchair platform lift?
A stair lift carries a seated rider along the stairs. A platform lift carries a person on a platform (often while staying in a wheelchair). Platform lifts are also addressed under ASME A18.1. (asme.org)
How do I keep my stair lift reliable for the long run?
Keep the rail area clear, park on the charge point, and schedule periodic service—especially if the lift is used daily. If you notice beeping, intermittent stopping, or slower travel, it’s best to schedule service before it becomes an urgent issue.
Glossary (helpful terms you’ll hear during installation)
ASME A18.1
A safety standard that covers platform lifts and stairway chairlifts, including guidance for design, construction, installation, operation, inspection, testing, maintenance, and repair. (asme.org)
Call/Send controls
Buttons (wall-mounted or on the armrest) that let you bring the stair lift to your level or send it to the other end of the rail.
Charge point
The position where the stair lift connects to power for battery charging. If the lift isn’t parked correctly, batteries can drain faster.
Obstruction sensors
Safety sensors (often on the footrest or carriage) that stop the lift if it contacts an object on the stairs.