Home Elevator

A home elevator or sometimes referred to as a residential elevator is an elevator that is installed inside a home. Home elevators are used for homes with more than one story and also where there might be someone who has difficulty climbing the stairs. Home elevators not only offer you convenience but will also raise the value of your home.

When buying a home elevator, you need to consider elevator cab styles and drive systems.

Home Elevator Styles
The in-shaft style is the standard elevator style where the home elevator is contained in the shaft. In an open style, the home elevator appears in the open and is visible as it goes up and down. These can be very elegant with nice glass panels so that you can see outside as you are in the elevator. In addition to shaft styles, the interior and lighting of the home elevator can also be customized. Depending on your preference you can choose the classic look with classic wood panels or the modern look. Lighting is also important and can add to the interior feel of the elevator. Remember that because the home elevator is part of your home, you should treat the inside like any other room that you would decorate rather than leave it plain.

Home Elevator Drive Systems
The home elevator drive system can be contained within the elevator itself, thus eliminating the need for a machine room. The elevator can be either traction driven or chain driven. Typically, a traction driven elevator is quieter than a chain system. The home elevator drive system can also be placed in a machine room. In this case it would use a monorail or a cable drum system to move the elevator up and down.

Buying a Home Elevator
Typical home elevator costs will run you between $15,000 to $30,000 depending on how many features you want to put in the elevator. If you have a disabled person you should make sure the home elevator is ADA certified. You also want to check the ASME codes as well. There are many online stores selling home elevators. It makes sense for you to do some research and understand what each of the vendors offer in terms of features for home elevators. Make sure you understand the warranty and maintenance policy of your home elevator as elevators do need to be periodically maintained for safety reasons.

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