Outside Elevators

Elevators are commonly found indoors. Commercial establishments have elevators within their building, just like the ones you would find in hotels and high-rise apartments. On the other hand, outside elevators are the type you would often find in homes. Usually, when homeowners decide they need to set up an elevator, it is often more practical to have the elevator installed outside rather than renovate a portion of the house just to accommodate it. Multi-level houses have staircases and if the owners decide to modernize their home, outside elevators can do the trick. It would be unwise to remove the stairs and replace it with the elevator.

Why Install an Outside Elevator?

Having a home elevator is considered a luxury. Elevators are expensive and come with several requirements such as machine room or hoist way. But an outside elevator proves to be beneficial. It adds more value to your property and offers convenience, for life. Your multi-level house becomes more accessible to everyone, especially those who are physically handicapped. Installing the elevator outside is likewise easier to accomplish. There is much more space and you will not have to change any of your house’s interior. Outside elevators still provide the same benefits as indoor elevators and in fact, they are more preferred because the layout of the house is kept intact.

What Type of Elevator to Install?

There are very many types of home elevators. These elevators are great for both indoor and outdoor use. The first type is the hydraulic-powered elevator. This elevator needs a machine room in the basement and includes a manual lowering system. It is more reliable and safer for earthquake prone areas. The second type is the electric or traction elevator. This design enables the cab to remain suspended in the shaft. The third type is the pneumatic lift that uses pneumatic vacuum for operation. The car is moved between floors through a suction. Both the electric and pneumatic types do not need machine rooms. The last type is the overhead winding drum that is commonly installed on the roof. You will have study and analyze which of these best fits your outside elevator requirement. Think of the safety of the passengers, especially those who are physically challenged.

Financial Concerns

Elevator installation is not a cheap matter. It requires a serious amount of investment. But since outside elevators are built to last, the expense will last you 20 years or even longer. You will need to have it maintained and inspected twice a year to keep it functioning well. Cheaper outside elevators can be purchased at $8,000.00. Mid-range elevators are priced at around $15,000.00. High-end models have price tags at $25,000.00 or higher. Take note that these estimates exclude the installation cost and other incidental expenses. But when you consider your aging parent who is going to make use of the lift, the price tag should not matter as much. Their comfort and confidence will grow once more when they realize they are able to manage on their own.