Through floor lifts are an increasingly popular domestic mobility aid, helping people to move between floors of their home with high levels of independence. Through floor lifts can be installed in many homes, but structural considerations are important. They are designed to fit discreetly into your space with minimal structural impact, accommodating a standard wheelchair and providing an ideal solution for those who find stairs challenging. Performing a similar job to stairlifts, there are several benefits unique to having a through floor lift in your home to make getting about much easier. So what is a through floor lift, and how can it benefit you by creating a more accessible environment in your home?
What is a Through Floor Lift?
A through floor lift is another name for a . A through floor lift is a descriptive term which refers to a domestic lift going through the floor of the home in order to transport a user from one floor to another. Similar to a stairlift, a through floor lift provides an alternative transport option in your home, without the need to clog up the stairs with a rail. Home lifts are also seen as a very beneficial way of moving between floors in your home as a wheelchair user, and are often referred to as a wheelchair lift due to their suitability for individuals with mobility challenges.
Most standard models of through floor lifts can safely carry, or have a weight capacity of, up to 250kg, making them suitable for most users, including those in wheelchairs. Advanced through-floor lifts offer greater freedom in design and can accommodate larger weights and more users compared to basic models. In most cases, you don’t need planning permission to install a through-floor lift in your house, but if you live in a listed building or a property in a conservation area, planning permission may be required.
Typically, a through floor lift will be able to take you from one floor in your home to another, and due to safety reasons, it will only be between two different floors, as the more robust models that can travel between three or more floors would take up a lot of floor space.
Types of Through Floor Lifts
Through floor lifts are available in a variety of models, each designed to meet the unique needs and preferences of users. The most common type is the basic through floor lift, which is compact and ideal for moving between two floors, making it a practical choice for homes where space is at a premium.
Lifestyle home lifts are another popular option, combining stylish design with everyday practicality to seamlessly blend into your home’s décor. For wheelchair users, dedicated wheelchair lifts are available, offering easy access, spacious lift cars, and smooth operation to ensure comfort and independence. Residential elevators also provide a sophisticated and functional solution for properties with multiple levels, delivering both style and accessibility. With a wide range of models to choose from, there is a through floor lift to suit every lifestyle and home layout.
Installation of a Through Floor Lift
The way a through floor lift is installed is a bit different to the traditional stairlift. With a stairlift, the rail is installed along the staircase, with the stairlift being attached. With a through floor lift, installation will typically require cutting a hole between the two floors the home lift will travel between.
If you choose to place your through floor lift in a landing or atrium space, then this may not be required, but if you want to travel from the living room on the ground floor straight up to the bedroom on the first floor, then a hole will need to be cut to allow the through floor lift to be installed.
Before installation is confirmed, a professional site survey is essential to check floor structures for through floor lift installations. During the home survey, factors like floor strength, ceiling height, and the location of utilities are all taken into account when assessing the property. This ensures that the chosen location for the through floor lift is ideal and that it’s safe to take that section of floor away.
During installation itself, the ceiling/floor section between the ground floor and first floor will be removed to ensure the through floor lift can be assembled in the agreed place. The Stiltz home lifts installation process involves a trusted team of builders who carry out the necessary work, and the installation team ensures the process is carried out efficiently, with minimal disruption to your daily life. Typically, the installation of a through floor lift takes 2 to 4 days, depending on the complexity of the project and your home’s unique requirements.
Customisation Options for Through Floor Lifts
One of the key advantages of modern through floor lifts is their ability to be customised to fit your specific needs and the unique layout of your home. From the initial site survey, the installation process is tailored to ensure the lift is installed in the most suitable location, maximising both space and convenience. Optional extras such as different door configurations, integrated seats, and custom railings can be added to enhance both the functionality and style of your lift.
Advanced models, Stiltz home lifts l offer a wide range of customisation options, including glass panels, a variety of colour finishes, bespoke button lettering, and built-in communication devices for added peace of mind. Whether you’re looking to match your lift to your home’s décor or require specific features for added comfort, there is a solution to fit your needs and enhance your lifestyle.
Maintenance and Repair of Through Floor Lifts
Ensuring the ongoing safety and reliability of your through floor lift is essential for long-term peace of mind. The installation process includes a comprehensive safety check, and regular maintenance visits can be scheduled to keep your lift in optimal condition. Experienced healthcare professionals and qualified technicians are available to provide expert advice on maintenance and repair, helping to extend the life of your lift and maintain its performance.
In the event of a breakdown or malfunction, prompt repair services are available to minimise any disruption to your daily routine. Many modern Stiltz lifts are equipped with a soft start feature, which helps to reduce wear and tear on the lift’s components, further enhancing their durability. Additionally, some models may qualify for VAT relief, making them a more cost-effective solution for users with specific mobility needs. With a commitment to quality service and user safety, you can trust that your lift will continue to provide reliable access between floors for years to come.
Comparison to Other Lift Solutions
When considering home mobility solutions, through floor lifts stand out for their compact design, convenience, and stylish appearance. Unlike stair lifts, which can be restrictive for wheelchair users and may take up valuable space on the stairs, through floor lifts offer a seamless way to travel between floors without compromising accessibility. Their small footprint makes them ideal for homes with limited space, and they can be installed with minimal disruption to your property.
Compared to traditional residential elevators, through floor lifts are generally more affordable and require less extensive construction work, making them a practical choice for many homeowners. They also add value to your property by enhancing accessibility and modernising your home’s features. When choosing the most suitable lift solution, it’s important to consider your home’s layout, the number of floors, and your specific mobility requirements. Consulting with experienced builders and healthcare professionals can help you make an informed decision, ensuring you select a lift that not only meets your needs but also enhances your lifestyle and the overall value of your home.
Through Floors Lifts with Multicare
Multicare Mobility offers a range of different through floor lifts to choose from. We’re a partner, which means we’re able to offer the very latest in high-tech home lift technology, assembled in the UK and available to customers throughout the UK.
With us, you can find four different models: the Stiltz Duo Classic, the Stiltz Trio Classic and the Stiltz Trio+. The Duo Classic allows you to transport two people at a time, and features a sleek, modern design that also allows you to carry two people. The Trio Classic has enough room and weight capacity to transport three people at once (or a wheelchair user), and it also allows you to do this with a clean, space-saving design.
Customers have consistently praised the exceptional service provided by Multicare, highlighting the professionalism and friendliness of our staff throughout the process. Many customers express satisfaction with the installation process, noting that our fitters are tidy, respectful of their homes, and cause minimal disruption. Testimonials frequently mention the high quality of our lifts, both in operation and aesthetics, with many stating they cannot fault the product. Customers have reported that our lifts have transformed their daily lives, making mobility easier and enhancing their quality of life. The efficient installation process and excellent follow-up service and support after installation are also highly appreciated by our customers.
Contact Multicare today to request a free home survey and see if a through floor lift will be the right fit for your house and the perfect mobility solution for you.
Through Floor Lift FAQs
1. What is a through floor lift, and how does it work?
A through floor lift is a compact residential elevator designed to transport users vertically between two floors of a home. It travels through a cut-out section in the floor, providing a safe and convenient alternative to stairs or stairlifts, especially for wheelchair users.
2. Can a through floor lift accommodate a wheelchair?
Yes, many through floor lifts are designed as wheelchair lifts with a spacious lift car and a small footprint, allowing wheelchair users to travel comfortably between floors. Some models also include features like wide doors and ramps for easy access and exit.
3. What safety features are included in a through floor lift?
Through floor lifts come equipped with multiple safety features such as obstruction sensors, emergency stop buttons, interlocked doors, and battery backup systems. These features ensure safe operation and peace of mind in the event of power outages or emergencies.
4. How long does the installation process take?
The installation process typically takes between 2 and 4 days, depending on your home’s layout and the complexity of the project. A site survey is conducted beforehand to assess suitability and ensure minimal disruption during installation.
5. Is VAT relief available on through floor lifts?
In many cases, VAT relief applies to through floor lifts, especially when installed for medical reasons or mobility needs. It’s advisable to discuss eligibility and pricing details with the company during your consultation to understand the potential cost benefits.