Will a straight stairlift damage my stairs?

No. The rail fixes discreetly to the stair treads and can be removed later, leaving only small, easily repaired fixing points. It doesn't attach to your wall.

Can it be folded out of the way?

Yes — the seat, footrest and arms fold up when not in use, so others can still use the stairs normally.

How long does installation take?

A straight stairlift is often fitted in just a few hours, and can frequently be installed on a single visit.

Is there a weight limit?

Standard models typically carry up to around 19 stone, and heavier-duty options are available. Acorn will confirm the right model for you.

Straight Stairlifts: Costs, Options & Buyer's Guide

A straight stairlift is the simplest and most affordable type of stairlift. If your staircase runs in a single straight line with no bends or landings, it's almost always the right choice — and the quickest to install.

Quick answer: A straight stairlift runs on a rail fixed to a single straight flight of stairs. It's the most affordable type, typically £2,000–£4,000 including installation, and can often be fitted in a few hours. Straight lifts are available new or reconditioned.

What is a straight stairlift?

A straight stairlift carries a comfortable seat up and down a rail that's fixed along one straight flight of stairs. Because the rail is simply cut to the right length — rather than custom-shaped to your staircase — it's the most affordable kind to supply and the fastest to fit.

The seat glides smoothly from bottom to top at the touch of a control, with a soft start and stop. At the top, a powered swivel seat turns so you can step off safely onto the landing.

Who a straight stairlift is best for

A straight stairlift is the right choice if:

Your staircase goes straight up with no bends, turns or half-landings.
You want the most affordable option.
A quick installation matters to you.
You're open to a reconditioned model to save even more.

If your stairs have a bend or a landing, you'll need a curved stairlift instead, as the rail has to follow the shape of the staircase.

How much does a straight stairlift cost?

Straight stairlifts typically cost between £2,000 and £4,000, including installation. A reconditioned straight model can cost less again. Eligible customers pay no VAT, a further 20% saving. For a full breakdown, see our guide to stairlift costs and VAT exemption.

Features to look for

Even on a straightforward straight staircase, a few features make a real difference to comfort and safety:

Powered swivel seat — turns the seat at the top so you can get on and off safely.
Seatbelt — for security throughout the ride.
Safety sensors — stop the lift automatically if something is in its path.
Simple controls — an easy paddle or toggle is far easier to use than fiddly buttons.
Fold-away design — the seat, arms and footrest fold up so others can still use the stairs.

How is a straight stairlift installed?

The rail fixes to the stair treads themselves — not the wall — so it suits almost any home and won't damage your walls or décor. Installation is usually quick, often completed in a few hours on a single visit. When you request a quote, Acorn assesses your staircase, then supplies and fits the stairlift.

New or reconditioned?

Straight staircases are the one place a reconditioned stairlift really shines, because the standard rail suits pre-owned models. A reconditioned lift costs less but comes with a shorter warranty and less choice. Our new vs reconditioned guide helps you weigh it up.

Because a straight stairlift depends entirely on your staircase measurements, the only way to get an exact price is a quick assessment. It's free and no-obligation — just fill in the form below and Acorn Stairlifts will provide your quote.

Straight Stairlifts