If you’re considering putting in a residential elevator in your home for personal/private use, you’re in luck. A residential elevator is a valuable asset to any home, as it offers high levels of functionality and convenience. However, there are many considerations to think about when planning for residential elevator use, from space and application to budget and disabilities.
Available Space
Space constraints can pose a limitation for many home elevators, especially for houses built before the 1980s that were not designed with residential elevators in mind. In general, you will want to plan for at least 20 to 25 square feet of space, as that space should be as close to your stairway as possible. You can even place it in the corner of the room depending on type.
Application and Purpose
The intended usage and purpose of your elevator will be a deciding factor in the model you choose and where you put it. Some people simply want a home elevator for convenience so they don’t have to trudge up and down the stairs. Others view it as a property investment. Still others install them to help manage a disability that makes stair navigation dangerous.
Budget
Budget is another major consideration when installing a residential elevator for private use. They can cost between $20,000 and $30,000 or more with elaborate or extensive prep work. That total can go even higher if you opt for a glass elevator, if you have multiple stories, or you choose high-end finishes on fixtures. It also costs more to install an elevator in your existing house than to add it in during construction.
Aging in Place
Aging in place allows seniors to remain in their homes while remaining independent even when faced with disabilities or other challenges. Adding a home elevator saves you money because you don’t have to move to an assisted living facility or nursing home which can pose a very high monthly expense.
For those with limited mobility, home improvements such as personal elevators that can delay a move to such a facility can save tens of thousands of dollars per year.
Resale Value
Studies show that new home elevators could add 10 percent to the home’s value. This is due in part to the added convenience and safety, but aesthetics also play a role.
Disabilities
Whether you have a permanent disability or you’re recovering from an injury or surgery, having a home elevator can allow you to stay in the comfort of your own home. This allows you to keep your daily routine as close to normal as possible. Even simple stair lifts can prevent inpatient admissions to rehab centers and long-term care facilities.
Home elevators increase the independence of seniors and those with disabilities, reducing their reliance on in-home caregivers.
Construction Time
The type of elevator you want, the amount of floors it needs to access, and whether it’s part of a retrofit or new construction can all impact installation time and cost. Installation itself can take two to four weeks, and prep work, such as adding electricity and hanging hoistway doors, can extend the timeline further.
Contact Mowrey Elevator
With so many considerations regarding residential elevator, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed with your options. Don’t worry about it. Just call us today! We will guide you in the right direction.