Common Stair Lift Parts and Components That You Should Know

Almost identical to a home wheelchair lift, a chair stair lift is similar in the function and the job it performs. Unlike an elevator it is not a very complex machine. Stair lifts are installed in your stairway and typically consists of five main components. These include the track, drive, chair, controls, and power systems. Each has an important role in delivering you or your loved one from floor to floor.

Track

The track is what the lift moves up and down on. The simplest and least expensive designs are straight. Tracks are available for a curved stairs and tend to be more expensive.

Drive

The drive is what transfers the movement of the motor to move the chair lifting or lowering you to your destination. The most popular today is rack and pinion drives. Cable or screw drives are older technology and may be available as well.

Chair

In order to make the trip you've got to have a place to sit. Chairs on a stair lift may swivel so you can safely get on at either landing. The two types that swivel will turn 90 or 180 degrees. On some models the track may be long enough that a swiveling chair may not be needed. All chairs will include a footrest but a powered folding footrest may also be an option.

Controls

You need some type of control to make your lift move. Many use a hand held wired remote. Wireless remotes are becoming more popular and depending on your situation may be more appropriate for your use.

Power

Your stair lift will require electricity to make the trip up or down the track. There are three types of power sources. The most popular and least complicated is a battery pack located in the chair/motor assembly. The batteries are charged from a charging station located at either end of the track which are plugged into the nearest AC outlet.

The other two types consist of a tethered cord that moves along with the chair/motor assembly. One type has batteries but is constantly charged. The other type relies solely on the AC power. The downfall to either of these is the tethered cable. It is constantly winding and unwinding and can eventually fail causing problems and requiring repair service.

Although each manufacturers stair-lift vary slightly you will find that they have these common features. Each will have their own design requirements for each style of staircase. Each will have literature or phone numbers available discussing what options are available to you and what dimensions are required in your stairway.

Stone Dupree has been active in repairing and maintaining medical devices in the hospital and clinical environment for nearly twenty years. He loves to share tips from his experiences with others through his websites. Visit http://www.stairliftinfo.info to learn more about straight stair lifts and other lifts for the home. You'll find many tips and advice on finding and purchasing a stair lift for your home.

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Tags: Components, Stair, Components, Lift

Stairs, Stairwells, Carpet, Tiles and Timber Flooring

Flooring in areas surrounding staircases should be practical and hardwearing, be able to shrug off dirt brought into the house, and be safe. But at the same time, flooring also offers a chance to make a statement about the whole house.

A floor particularly in the stairwell positioned in a homes entrance area should be warm, welcoming and in keeping with the style and decoration of the surrounding rooms. Stairways can often have the best floors in the house. The trick is to appreciate them.

Carpeting your staircase and landings reduces the noise and controls the dust. If you have a narrow set of stairs, a carpet runner could be used as an alternative as it still reduces noise, but because it is narrower than the staircase, it helps increase the apparent width. A vertical strip down the carpet runner can also help.

Pale carpets are not always recommended for staircases as they get dirty very quickly and cleaning won’t bring out some stains. Carpet may not be a good option if you want to add to the light as carpet trends not to the reflective. If carpet is to be installed in a stairwell where you are required to add light, don’t be tempted to carpet a staircase in a shade that is already dirt coloured such as muds and coffees.

The fact that staircases are a high traffic area means to a carpeted staircase requires consideration. The edge of a tread of a carpeted staircase needs to be round to prevent premature wearing of the carpet on the nosing line. Wear and tare is the menace of a carpeted staircase.

Stairs can benefit from changes of pace, colour and texture. Simple or plain carpets are better because wild patterns can be deceptive and cause you to trip, although they can be as decorative and distinctive as a wooden or stone floors. For example, you can put a different coloured strip of carpet from the rest down the middle that follows the direction of the walls or stair. Neutral colours set off brighter colours on the walls.

Flooring and a staircase can be brought together. The floor can be divided into chunks that has width and depth similar to a stair tread. A handrail can divide the stair and similar flooring like an abstract painting. Like wise the gentle curve of a geometric stair and the simplicity of the construction makes it perfect contrast for a very busy, colourful floor - this can be done with tiles, timber or carpet finish.

With multi-patterned flooring such as with encaustic tiles, the simplicity of the stair can be increased by picking just one or two shades from the floor and repeating them on the stair. If the size of a tile in proportion to the floor space is carefully considered the ever popular black and white tile never fails to look elegant.

A floor covering that is a contrast to the staircase helps make to stair safe. Any contrast between the materials or in the case of timber, direction of the grain aids the eye in distinguishing between the steps of the staircase and the staircase entry and exit points.

When considering timber flooring the wealth of choice is endless. A stairwell’s floor can be individual design and styled to site a staircase. In the case of parquetry before you start selecting timbers, the possible styles you can consider are Lineal: "straight lines", Herringbone: "angled blocks", Double herringbone: "two blocks next to each other in same pattern as herringbone", Basket Weave or a Square on Square. All these designs can be altered by laying them in 45o angle or 90o angle having a stunning effect. Then you can consider Borders to add a decorative feature to the parquetry floor. The border could also use contrasting timber give greater effect.

Often it can be best to keep floor treatments as simple as possible particularly in smaller areas, if a floor gets over complicated, the space will be spoiled. Therefore, if you have natural, good looking floors, don’t bother to carpet them unless the noise is too much. If you must have carpet, go for a plain version in a strong wearing weave or in smaller houses a striped runner is good. If you leave the floors relatively plain, you can go crazy on the walls with colour and the stairwells lighting.

For more information regarding our range of products, staircase and balustrading options available, visit our celebrated web site – www.stairking.com.au

Slattery & Acquroff, for the best stairs, on time.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Courtney_Beard

Tags: Stairwells, Tiles, Flooring, Stairs

StairMaster's 4400CL Space Efficient Stair Climber That Works

Looking for an space-efficient stair climber? Check out StairMaster's 4400CL.

StairMaster's 4400CL has a comfortable, upright design that fits in less than 2′ x 4′/61 x 122 cm of floor space. Don't let the sleek design fool you. This baby is loaded for a wide range of fitness needs. Electronically controlled alternator and a chain drive provide an exact pedal descent that helps smooth stepping motion.

The pedal shape is patented to keep it level throughout your workout and it helps correct your movements so that you do not strain your muscles too much. Strain is different than resistance. One shows incorrect position and movement and the other is, well, exercise.

StairMaster's 4400CL rail-free configuration helps you improve your posture so that you don't slouch over the rails and take the weight off your feet. This feature gets you the best lower-body workout of any climbing machine.

The 4400CL precision we mentioned allows for step heights as low as 1 inch to as high as 14 inches. The speed can be adjusted to go as slow as 26 steps per minute to as fast as 174 steps per minute, Again, you control your pace. StairMaster's 4400CL has an easy-to-read, custom LCD display with six workout programs all tied into monitors. You can place your workout into auto mode with the quick start.

Or you can keep control with the manual mode. If you like to lose weight, choose the fat burner or calorie burner selections. And let's not forget that heart of yours by using the heart rate zone trainer.

© 2007 ExerciseEquipments.com

StairMaster's 4400CL can even satisfy the workout devotees with the nationally recognized fitness test and the custom firefighter fitness test (CPAT). If all of this is not enough, lets add 20 resistance levels, Polar-compatible wireless heart rate monitoring, a maximum weight capacity of 300 pounds, a reading rack, water bottle holder, and accessory tray.

For more information about stairmaster treadmills checkout home gym exercise equipment.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Vishy_Dadsetan

Tags: Efficient, Climber, Works, Stair

Pros And Cons Of Buying A Used Stair Lift

The cost of a used stair lift is much lower than buying a new one; you can save anything between a few hundred dollars to nearly two thousand on some brands. The cost saving is just one advantage of buying a second hand model; there are others too but there are also some disadvantages.

If you require a curved model then you must buy a used stair lift from a reputable supplier. You should make sure that you will be getting a brand new rail; some dealers re-manufacture old pieces of rail to try and get them to fit a new stair case. This is not a safe practice. A re-manufactured rail or reconditioned rail will not conform to International Safety Standards.

Advantages of a Used Stair Lift

Prices are very much lower than new machines. You can expect to save anything between 400 to 2,000 dollars.

Machines from leading brands like Acorn, Stannah and Ameriglide are built to last. So, buying one from such a company is a good deal. In fact, machines from leading manufacturers do not tend to have more problems than new ones.

Disadvantages of a Used Stair Lift

They tend to require more servicing so this will be an added recurring cost.

Many manufacturers discontinue making spare parts for older models. The production lifespan of most chair lifts is about 10 years, therefore installing any used machine older than this may give you problems when trying to source spares.

The warranty of a used chair lift will not be as good, or for as long a period, as a new one.

The lift may become obsolete and a local dealer may be unable to support that particular used machine.

The second hand unit may not match your exact needs and may not have any options that are now standard on new models; items like safety belts, remote controls, motorized swivel chair etc.

You may not know the history of the used chair. Did the previous owner buy it new? Where did they buy it? Did they have any problems with it?

When buying a used one you will not have as wide a choice as when buying a new one. You may have to make compromises when you buy a second hand unit.

The angle of the stairs must also be taken into account when moving used stairlifts from one location to another. The seat must be level on the rail. This is adjustable on all lifts but within certain limitations.

Buying a used chair lift can be a great option. You can easily buy them from leading brands like Stannah, Bruno and Summit Stair Lifts.

However, unless you're very good at DIY you are best advised to buy a reconditioned machine from a reputable dealer. Not only can they advise you on what model is best for you, they will install it and provide after sales care.

Follow the links for used stair lifts and get stair lift prices on leading brands like Summit stair lifts.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robin_O'Brien

Tags: Stair, Lift, Buying

Workout Clothing For Workout Success? You Bet!

Ever see exercisers looking miserably unhappy with sagging sweatpants, ripped up over-sized T-shirts and sneakers that have seen better days?

They want to workout to improve their health but somehow, don't you think they've got it all wrong?

Because you're supposed to start by looking good - having the proper workout clothing and shoes for your routine.

The gist with workout clothing is not to wear something that's too tight, binding or pinching because that will restrict your range of motion. A good one should make you feel confident, comfortable and dry and which can provide the right support and comfort level so you can workout properly.

Don't succumb to the idea that one type of workout attire is enough to fit all occasions. Different exercise requires different type of clothing.

For instance:

1. For running and other high intensity cardio exercises such as kickboxing, cardio dancing and step aerobics, you need a fabric blend (of polyester or cotton and Lycra combo) and technology that keep moisture away from your body. The moisture-wicking fabric is good for these "sweat-a-lot" cardio exercises plus it helps to reduce chafing.

2. For Yoga or Pilates, you need comfortable clothes that allow your lower body to move freely. The best fit for this is the rich, tactile fabrics such as velour or polyester blends with a drawstring waist and slightly flared legs.

3. For medium intensity exercises such as biking, weight training or brisk walking, you need moisture-wicking material to keep sweat away from your body.

When you put on appropriate clothing according to the type of workout, you look good. When you look good, you feel good. It's a mental kind of thing. For example, you'll feel better doing that run knowing that your outfit is coordinated.

And if you love fashion and style, you've added bonuses there.....

Please, I'm not asking you to spend tons on workout attire.

Just approach it realistically and buy a few that suits you and your workout type.

You're not exercising to make fashion statement. It's not just about looking good, it's about improving your health and feeling better.

But more than moisture-wicking fabrics and "fashionable" clothes, your workout clothe can be an inspiring thing.

It can become a reward, a kind of treat, for decking out in good-quality attire while working out. This is especially so when you've achieved your goal in working out, say, you've lost 10lbs, on target.

That calls for a celebration, surely? Reward yourself with a new workout attire!

My conclusion is this - wear what makes you feel comfortable. That means if you you feel comfy and look good in say, a knee-length workout pant, which also makes it easy for you to get on the stair-climber.......go for it then!

Cecelia Yap is an avid exerciser and author of the popular exercise website: perfect-body-toning.com - a web site born out of her passion which she successfully turns into a profitable business

Perhaps you have a passion or hobby you'd like to write about. Find out how you too can turn it into a profitable business like Cecelia does, here: http://www.perfect-body-toning.com/my-passion.html

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Tags: Workout, Clothing, Success

Railings and Stair Parts Made of Wood

If you are picking out furniture for your patio or garden, remember that this it should be furniture that has been especially manufactured for use out of doors. If it is not weather resistant, you will have problems and not get a lot of use out of it. The materials used most commonly for outdoor furniture are treated woods, glass, plastic, vinyl, metal and even stone, all of which resist the elements. The most common group of patio furniture that a homeowner will buy is a grouping that consists of a table, four chairs and an umbrella. Perhaps a chaise lounge may be added.

The most versatile kind of patio furniture is wood. It may or may not have cushions included. The types of wood that are commonly used are birch, beech, maple, cedar, mahogany, teak, cypress, oak and pine. Some woods, called exotic hardwoods, are usually the most impervious to the weather. If you are using any of the others, you will have to treat them by painting, oiling or staining them. This does not apply to teak, which is naturally weather proof, as long as you do not mind that it weathers to a grayish color. If you want you teak to look new, you will have to re-oil it periodically.

Teak is the best choice for outdoor furniture since it is beautiful and yet durable. The top grade is Grade A, which has no cracks or knotholes. It should also be kiln-dried to assure that it is completely dry all the way to the inside. Tb is will assure a moisture content between 12 to 15 percent, which means that it should not move, shrink or slip. When a piece of teak furniture is machine made, you can count on the consistency being good.

The reason that teak withstands weather so well is that it contains natural oils that protect it. It has been used in boat building for centuries for this reason. In warm climates, it resists the damaging rays of the sun as well. Teak has proven to be a very valuable resource for the countries that grow it.

Besides its use for patio furniture, teak has been used for building boats, as mentioned, but also for door frames and window frames, building bridges and wharfs, for panelling and flooring and even for wooden venetian blinds. Teak wood can range in color from the deep or light brown when it is first harvested to silver or yellow grey as it ages. Teak has been used in the manufacturer of furniture since the 19the century, when the Chinese started exporting it to Europe.

You can obtain teak furniture at a number of sources, but you have to be careful where you get it. There are many pieces that are not made well.

If you have decided upon wood patio furniture, teak is probably the best choice compared to other types of wood because of its weather resistant and long lasting qualities.

Adam Peters is a syndicated writer of http://www.home-decorating-reviews.com You can find more information and resources on wooden stair parts at his website.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Adam_Peters

Tags: Railings, Stair, Wood

Choosing the Right Stair Lift

If you are someone who suffers from arthritis or other health problems that make walking difficult, then it is very likely that you have difficulty using the stairs. Going up and down the stair case can put a very big strain on your knees and other joints. Falls down the stairs are also one of the most common types of accidents that occur in those that are over the age of 65. One of the best ways to allow free movement up and down the stairs and to prevent falls is to invest in a stair lift.

There are several different designs of stair lifts available, but they typically work by attaching a solid metal track to the staircase. A chair or small platform is then sent up and down the stairs as it carries a single individual. Stair lifts that use a small platform are called perch lifts and ones that use a chair are called stair chairs. Only a few models are available that feature a perch in place of a chair, but some people who cannot bend their knee find that a perch lift is better choice for them.

If you have a straight staircase, then a stair lift can be installed easily in a few hours and is very inexpensive. Many of today's stair lifts are battery powered, which ensures that even if the power goes out, you will still be able to use the stair lift. Battery powered stair lifts, like some of the ones that are produced by AmeriGlide, must still be plugged into a regular outlet. These battery powered lifts are constantly charging at any position along the track. Some older models had required that you always remember to 'park' your stair chair in a specific place in order to charge it, but models made by AmeriGlide and most other manufacturers do not require this.

Determining what type of stair chair to purchase will depend on several factors. One of the most important considerations is the weight requirements of the user. Most AmeriGlide lifts will support 300 pounds, but there are several heavy duty lifts to choose from as well. In addition to supporting more weight, a heavy duty stair chair also typically has a reinforced chair that is wider and has extra strong armrests. The AmeriGlide heavy duty lift is one of the most dependable available and can support up to 500 pounds. It can span distances of up to 20 feet and this model is slightly different than most because the rider is actually facing down the stairs when in motion. It features a 180 degree swivel seat, so when it is time to exit the lift at the top of the stairs, the rider can safely do so.

If you have difficulty using the stairs than it may be tempting to stop using the stairs and to avoid a large section of your home. A quality stair lift, such as those made by AmeriGlide, will provide a much safer and better alternative that is cost effective and will last a lifetime.

Sean Noughtly is a writer and contributor for ameriglide.com. If you would like to learn more about heavy duty stair lifts or other types of stair lifts, visit AmeriGlide today.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sean_Noughtly

Tags: Choosing, Lift, Stair

Disabled Stair Lifts

Some disabled or elderly people may have difficulty using the stairs which can have an affect on their everyday lives. You may have to move your bedroom to the ground floor and might have to install a bathroom downstairs. These can be done at a cost but also disrupt your life. Why move your bedroom and loose a room downstairs. You don't need to if you have a stair lift installed, although you will have to pay for them it might work out cheaper than having to make adjustments to your home.

With the traditional stair lift you need to be able to get onto to it and out of it with ease to get the most use. The stair lift is controlled with a joystick by you. There is a chair which will get onto which is attached to a track along the staircase.

Do you think getting onto the chair could be a problem or could be a problem in the future, try looking at platform lifts which will carry you and your wheelchair.

Make sure if you purchase any of the lifts you check the company has given you the nest price on the market and will fit the lift for you. Look at warranty and ongoing maintenance. Looking after your lift could prolong its life and reliability.

Installing a lift into your home is a purchase you need to research and make sure you know why you need it so you pick the right lift and model to suit your needs.

disabled stairlifts Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jason_Tate

Tags: Disabled, Stair, Lifts

Building Deck Steps Now That Outdoor Entertainment Season Has Arrived

roved home values. The less sanguine argument states that you'll find someone who has a physical difficulty or even a certain mental hang-up about approaching a deck spiral staircase, and of course seriously large objects (think huge grills, furniture, pianos, a team of Sumo wrestlers) generate difficult access-use problems.

Deck Stair Railing Systems - A World of Choice. No longer rough milled logs strung up outside Lincoln's Illinois cabin, modern decks get incredible finishing treatment options including metal deck railings (think steel, alloys)...cable deck railings (think thin-profile high strength steel safety cables held taut between upright posts)...or ultra-modernist see-through safety glass deck railings. Safety tip: check with your town's building code to learn about deck stair railing "code" requirements...spacing and layout which reduces risk of accident to you or guests or delivery guys.

Find Out More About Deck Stair Designs, Materials And What’s Necessary For Building And Installing Deck Stairs.

Please go to the following links for the latest in deck stairs and deck stair design strategies for your outdoor living space.

Deck Stairs: http://www.wise4living.com/hgdeck/stairs-steps.htm

Decks in general: http://www.wise4living.com/hgdeck/

Author Robin Derry is publisher for http://www.wise4living.com/ a specialty knowledge site that gives insights and solutions on building deck stairs, home and gardening projects such as decks and deer fencing, plasma and LCD TV stand design trends, wall mount and TV ceiling mount systems, HDTV and home entertainment systems, specialty academic camps, auto tire and wheels technology trends, medical spas, technology trends, unique gift designs, technology gifts, tips for families committed to youth summer camps, body health, household, sport, travel, footwear, education, spendthrift trusts and family law legal needs, and much more.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robin_J._Derry

Tags: Outdoor, Entertainment, Season, Arrived, Building