Step Lift Installation & System Design
Step lifts and incline platform lifts provide step-free access where steps or level changes restrict movement for wheelchair users and people with reduced mobility. They can provide an alternative when access requirements, available space, or the existing building layout do not warrant or accommodate a conventional passenger lift.
The required system depends on the access barrier. Step lifts are used for short changes in level, while incline platform lifts travel along the line of an existing staircase. The staircase configuration, travel required, available space and intended use all form part of the specification.
Systems can be installed at building entrances, across split levels, or alongside existing staircases, depending on the lift type and the building’s requirements.
Why Choose a Step Lift?
Step lifts provide an effective way to improve accessibility where ramps require too much space or where a larger lift installation is unnecessary. They help remove barriers created by steps and changes in level while allowing wheelchair users to move around a building more independently.
Suitable for homes, workplaces, schools, healthcare facilities and public buildings, step lifts can often be installed with less structural work than many other accessibility solutions. The most appropriate system depends on the building layout, travel distance, staircase configuration and how the lift will be used.
Planning & Access Requirements
Every step lift installation begins with a detailed assessment of the building. The staircase layout, travel height, available installation space, structural conditions and accessibility requirements all influence the final specification.
Many systems are designed for retrofit installations, helping minimise builder’s work while making accessibility improvements within existing properties.
Where external access is required, weather-resistant systems can also be specified for entrances and changes in ground level.
Choosing the Right Step Lift
Step lifts are available in several configurations to accommodate different types of buildings and accessibility requirements. The most suitable solution depends on the layout of the property, the staircase configuration, travel distance and the level of access required.
The systems below provide practical accessibility solutions for residential, commercial and public buildings.
Classic 1m Steplift
Compact and reliable, ideal for residential and light commercial applications with limited space.
Executive 1m Steplift
A refined solution suitable for indoor and outdoor use, combining performance with enhanced design options.
Independence 2m / 3m Steplift
Designed for greater travel heights, offering increased flexibility for a wide range of accessibility requirements.
Flexstep
A unique step and lift combination that transforms stairs into a platform lift for flexible accessibility.
Easylift
A compact and practical solution for overcoming small level changes in both residential and commercial settings./p>
HDN
A concealed step lift designed to integrate seamlessly into the floor, maintaining a clean and discreet finish.
Choosing Between Step Lifts & Incline Lifts
Step Lifts
Step lifts provide wheelchair access over short changes in level, making them suitable for entrances, split-level areas and locations where a compact accessibility solution is required.
Incline Platform Lifts
Incline platform lifts travel along an existing staircase, allowing wheelchair users to move safely between levels without requiring major structural alterations. They are suitable for both straight and curved staircases.
Enclosed Platform Lifts
Enclosed platform lifts provide additional protection during travel and are commonly specified where weather protection, user confidence or a more enclosed travel environment is preferred.
Step Lift Options by Access Requirement
Every installation is specified around the accessibility requirements of the building.
| Requirement | Typical Solution |
|---|---|
| Building entrance | Step lift |
| Existing straight staircase | Incline platform lift |
| Existing curved staircase | Curved incline platform lift |
| Split-level access | Step lift |
| External entrance | Weather-resistant platform lift |
| Greater weather protection | Enclosed platform lift |
The most suitable solution depends on the building layout, available space, staircase configuration and the intended users of the lift.
Step Lift vs Vertical Platform Lift
Many accessibility projects involve deciding between a step lift and a vertical platform lift.
| Step Lift | Vertical Platform Lift |
|---|---|
| Designed for short changes in level | Designed for greater vertical travel |
| Commonly installed at entrances | Commonly installed between floors |
| Compact footprint | Requires more installation space |
| Often requires less structural work | May require additional builder’s work |
| Suitable where space is restricted | Suitable for larger travel distances |
The correct system will depend on the travel height, available space, staircase layout and accessibility requirements identified during the site survey.
Internal vs External Step Lifts
Step lifts can be installed internally or externally depending on where the access barrier occurs.
Internal systems are commonly installed at split levels, entrance lobbies and staircases, while external systems provide wheelchair access where changes in ground level prevent step-free entry into a building.
External installations require weather-resistant finishes and should be specified according to the environment in which they will operate. Drainage, exposure to the weather and the surrounding access route should also be considered during the planning stage.
Step Lift Installation Process
Initial Consultation
Every project begins with a discussion about the building, the access barrier and how the lift will be used.
Site Survey
A detailed survey allows us to assess the staircase, travel height, available space, structural conditions and any builder’s work that may be required.
Lift Specification
We’ll recommend the most suitable system, explain the available options and prepare a detailed quotation based on the specific requirements of the project.
Installation & Commissioning
Once the lift has been manufactured, it is installed, tested and commissioned by experienced engineers before being handed over for use.
Why Choose New Lift Solutions?
Accessibility Specialists
We work with homeowners, businesses, architects and contractors to deliver step lift and incline platform lift installations across a wide range of residential and commercial projects.
Designed Around Your Building
Every building presents different accessibility challenges. We specify each installation around the available space, staircase configuration, travel height and intended use rather than applying a standard solution.
Installation, Servicing & Ongoing Support
From the initial consultation through to installation, servicing and planned maintenance, we provide ongoing support throughout the life of every step lift installation.
What Affects the Cost of a Step Lift?
The cost of a step lift depends on factors including the type of system, staircase configuration, travel distance, platform size, internal or external installation, finishes and any structural or electrical work required.
External installations, bespoke configurations and projects involving curved staircases or additional builder’s work may increase the overall cost.
Following a consultation and site survey, we’ll recommend the most suitable solution and provide a detailed quotation based on the specific requirements of your building.
Frequently Asked Questions About Step & Incline Lifts
A step lift is a compact platform lift designed to provide step-free access over small changes in level for wheelchair users and people with reduced mobility. They are commonly installed at entrances, split-level areas and other locations where a full passenger or vertical platform lift would not be practical.
A step lift travels vertically over a short distance to overcome changes in level, while an incline platform lift travels along the line of an existing staircase. The most suitable option depends on the layout of the building, the available space and where step-free access is required.
Step lifts can be installed in homes, commercial premises, schools, healthcare facilities and public buildings. They are commonly used at entrances, split-level areas and other locations where steps or changes in level restrict wheelchair access. Many systems are suitable for both internal and external installation.
Most step lifts are designed to minimise structural alterations, making them suitable for many retrofit projects. The amount of builder’s work required depends on the lift type, installation location and the existing structure of the building.
Step lift installations should be designed to support the accessibility requirements applicable to the project. This may include current Building Regulations and other accessibility standards depending on the type of building and its intended use. We’ll advise on the relevant requirements during the specification stage.
Yes. Many step lifts are designed specifically for external installation, using weather-resistant materials and finishes suitable for outdoor environments. They are commonly installed at entrances where changes in ground level make step-free access difficult.
Load capacities vary depending on the lift model, but step lifts are designed to safely accommodate wheelchair users and, where appropriate, an accompanying passenger. We’ll recommend a system that meets the specific requirements of your project.
Yes. Step lifts are designed with straightforward controls and safety features that allow users to operate them with confidence. Depending on the system, controls may be located on the lift platform, at the landing or operated using a remote control.
The most suitable step lift depends on factors including the travel height, staircase configuration, available installation space, internal or external location and how the lift will be used. Following a site survey, we’ll recommend the most appropriate solution for the building and its accessibility requirements.
Have something specific in mind?
Discuss Your Step Lift Project
If you’re improving accessibility within a home, commercial premises or public building, our team can help specify the most appropriate step lift or incline platform lift for your project. We’ll assess the building, discuss your accessibility requirements and recommend a solution designed around the way the space will be used.