Elevators are common features in commercial buildings, however, more and more homeowners are choosing to install residential lifts in their properties. Residential elevators offer more convenience and functionality when accessing the top floors and can also provide practical mobility for disabled people. Also, it adds a stylish element and a sure way of improving your home resale value.
When looking for the right elevator to install in your home, there are several considerations your first have to make. Here is a look at some of those key factors to consider.
1. The Elevator Company
When choosing the right residential lift for your home, the first thing is to find the right installer. Here, you’ll need to consider whether the installer is proprietary or non-proprietary. A proprietary service contractor works for a particular elevator company with limited maintenance options. This type of elevator require specialized, proprietary diagnostic tools and maintenance can only be done by the manufacturer’s employees.
Non-proprietary elevator components, however, are universal. Meaning that you have unlimited maintenance choices with no specialized tools required and maintenance work can be done by any elevator repair company. Another benefit of using a non-proprietary elevator company is the accessibility of the replacement parts. They are easily available and all components will be offered to you at no extra cost.
2. The Purpose and Capacity
Considering the purpose of installing a lift in your home will help you determine the type of elevator to choose. There are five primary types of elevators that can vary in size and capacity: passenger, freight, LULA, home, and personnel. If you are looking to move items between floors in your house, then consider a specially designed freight elevator. And in case a member of your family is experiencing mobility issues, go for accessibility designed lifts.
In addition to the elevator’s purpose, load capacity is also an essential consideration when choosing the right elevator for your home. The intended use plus the load capacity of an elevator will inform your product selection. For instance, if a family member with mobility impairment uses a motorized wheelchair, then your installation contractor will most likely advise the installation of an elevator with wide entry and great load-bearing capacity.
3. The Design and Location
Over 10,000 residential elevators are being installed each year. However, not all of these elevators are installed for a functional purpose, others are purely luxurious. Before settling on a particular elevator style, ask yourself where you want the elevator installed?
For instance, if you’re planning to have an elevator installed inside your great room or foyer, then a glass elevator could be your best option. Add lighting and customized finishes to it for even more aesthetic appeal. Exclusively functional elevators could be designed to blend with your house decor using elegantly crafted natural oak hardwood and veneers.
4. Elevator Saftey
When you consider installing residential lifts, safety is a vital factor to keep in mind. Properly installed and maintained residential lifts can ensure overall passenger safety. That’s why it is necessary to find a reputable and experienced elevator company that can guarantee proper installation. Don’t settle for cheap installation, go for quality instead.
Additionally, plan regular safety inspections and checkups for the equipment to ensure your elevator operates safely and smoothly. Elevator maintenance schedules allow you to rest easy knowing the safety of you and your family is assured.
Having considered all these factors, you are set to have quality and safe elevator installation. No more trekking up and down stair just to access the upper rooms in your house. Elevate your way up.
