A primary reason for retrofitting a building with an elevator is accessibility. Whether it’s your home, a church or a school, an elevator means the structure is now easily accessible regardless of mobility concerns of those who use it most.
During National Preparedness Month, consider also the ability to ensure the safety of those using a home or other building equipped with an elevator. In homes especially, those aging in place can more safely navigate multiple levels with access to an easy-to-operate elevator.
New features have made it easier than ever to incorporate elevators into existing homes and buildings, as well as ensuring safety and preparedness in the event of an emergency. Step by step decision making will help you choose and install the best elevator for your application.
Location
Buildings constructed without elevators often were designed with the possibility of adding one. Even homes may be built with stacked closets that can easily be converted to an elevator shaft. In choosing your location, you will need about 25 square feet of space with no obstructions between floors.
Your available space and location will be a significant factor in the type of elevator you choose as well as the drive system. You may be able to install an elevator with multiple access doors or doors on opposing sides, for example. Drive systems may be cable drum or hydraulic depending on whether you have space for a mechanical room.
Style
Within a home setting, the style and look of an elevator is a crucial part of one’s decision-making process. The placement of the doors can make a big difference in convenience, but it may also create obstacles, so modern elevators are generally being designed to take up less space than stairs.
Modern elevator styles are aimed at today’s homes, providing the right look for both modern and traditional homes. Options range from open, glass sides to hidden elevators disguised to look like a cabinet or closet, along with custom colors.
Safety
Elevators make navigating any building safer, but anticipating emergencies is the focus of National Preparedness Month. Consider the following as you retrofit your home or another building with an elevator.
- Most elevators today include a battery backup, which allows the unit to keep running and safely move to the lowest floor in the event of a power outage.
- Elevators without batter backup or a setting to slowly lower the lift to the closest or lowest floor will usually incorporate an easy-to-manage hand crank that allows the user to lower the cab.
- Your elevator will feature an emergency call button or emergency phone inside the elevator cab should you need help. Be sure to post your list of emergency phone numbers.
- Emergency lighting and alarms are included with most modern elevators.
- Ask about the inclusion of a sensor that allows your elevator to automatically stop at a higher floor if flooding is detected.
- Elevator maintenance plans are offered by most lift companies to ensure your elevator is always in good working order.
For quality elevators that fit your home, church, school, or any building, contact Handel & Son Elevator/Lift Co. Click here for details on all our home elevator and lift options in Summit and Portage counties as well as dumbwaiters and elevators for Akron and Kent area commercial and industrial applications.