Is It Time to Modernize Your Elevator?

Is your building’s elevator in need of an upgrade? That’s a question a lot of building owners should ask themselves, especially in older buildings. Elevators are a massive benefit to a building, and in many cases required by law, so on top of scheduling yearly inspections and the occasional repair, you might want to consider when is the best time to modernize your elevator.

What is Elevator Modernization?

Elevator modernization is updating an elevator’s supporting machinery and controls to provide safe and efficient transportation. You might think this means replacing the old car and installing a whole new one, but it’s not. Modernizing is actually more cost-effective as you’re keeping the majority of your original elevator – it’s just getting upgraded with new parts.

Modernizing your elevator can provide better ride quality, increased rider safety, and eliminate costly repairs of older equipment that has exceeded its useful life. Additionally, upgrading an elevator’s interior can improve your building’s aesthetic.

Your Elevator is More than 20 Years Old

Elevators are a useful, beneficial asset to a building, typically designed to last a long while. However, technology is constantly moving forward, and even the best machines can’t last forever. Typically, elevators have a lifespan of 20 to 25 years, and industry experts recommend the end of their lifespan is the best time to modernize. So if your elevator is on the older side, you may want to look into getting it upgraded ASAP.

It’s not just the technology that could be out-of-date, either. Building regulations change over time as well. Your elevator may need some modernization because it no longer meets local building codes or accessibility standards. 

There Have Been Issues

If your elevator gets used fairly regularly, there’s a good chance the technology is facing a lot of wear and tear. In fact, this wear and tear could significantly shorten your elevator’s lifespan or cause major technical issues.

If your elevator has been giving your riders more trouble as of late, don’t wait until the 20-year milestone. Consider upgrading your elevator now to fix the issues and prevent them from coming back. Modernizing now could save you a ton of grief for years to come.

Repair Costs are Adding Up

Speaking of saving, frequently repairing an elevator can be expensive. Yes, we have an extensive inventory of replacement parts for all types of elevators, and we repair and service all elevator manufacturer makes and models, but no matter how affordable the repairs, having to do it frequently can add up quickly.

Fiscally, it’s smarter to simply modernize your elevator so you won’t need to call in emergency repairs all the time. You’ll find that upgrading your elevator to eliminate a frequent, costly issue will save you a huge amount of money in the long run.

So take a look at your building’s elevator and consider whether or not it’s time to call on our modernization services. You may just be making the best decision for your building in the long run.