What to Expect During An Elevator Installation

You’ve done all your research and are ready for your elevator installation. Whether this is your first time getting an elevator installed for your building or you’ve done it before, it’s necessary to be prepared. Here is everything you need to know about your elevator installation before it happens.

How Long Does It Take to Install an Elevator?

Generally, elevator installation takes about a few weeks to a few months from beginning to end. However, time-frames depend on whether your building is 10 stories tall or smaller, and if your building needs to solve structural repairs. It would be best to talk to the technicians to get an exact timeline of the process.

Elevators also require a lot of planning based on where they will be located. Experts will examine the building and check the legal compliance including elevator and installation permits. No work will be started until full approval from you or whoever is in charge of your building.

How Much Does It Cost?

Like timing, the cost of installing an elevator depends on different factors. Typically, they cost between $50,000 to $100,000. A hydraulic elevator has lower installation costs than both traction and industrial elevators. It’s important to discuss costs with your technician to find the right price for you. 

The Installation Process

In the beginning, the technician builds the parts of the elevator. The first parts to be installed are the pits and landings. In an elevator, a technician will dig a pit a couple of feet below the ground floor of the building. Each floor will have a hole cut in the wall so there are landings at each stop. Another hole will be created for the piston cylinder which will raise and lower the car of the elevator. During this step, waterproofing and drainage systems will be included.

After, the technician builds a hoistway (also known as an elevator shaft). This is where the elevator travels from floor to floor. Usually, a hoistway is built off-site and installed within the elevator. However, technicians can also build them on-site. Guard rails will also need to be installed along the length of the elevator shaft to ensure safe and smooth movement.

Once the build of the elevator is complete, technicians will install the electrical wiring and mechanical systems for the elevator to work. This includes power supply connections and safety features. 

Inspect the Elevator Once It’s Complete           

The elevator needs to be inspected and tested after building it. Safety is the number one priority when running these elevator tests. This means the elevator needs to be inspected and tested after building it. Technicians will take note of any problems they come across with the elevator to be fixed immediately.   

There are many moving parts when it comes to installing an elevator. During the process, technicians will inspect the building based on location and legal compliance, then begin building and installing all the materials that hold up an elevator. If you have any questions regarding the installation process for your elevator, contact us today.