Home elevators offer homeowners an optimal way to integrate accessibility, convenience, and style into their living spaces. But deciding to add an elevator to your property is just one of many steps that will inform the process. With an investment this large, it’s pertinent to cover your bases and thoroughly weigh your options. In this post, we’ll do the heavy lifting for you, providing a simple yet detailed step-by-step guide designed to help you choose the right elevator for your space.
Step 1- Determine your reasoning behind building an in-home elevator
The first step in choosing a home elevator is to carefully assess your reasons for installation. For some homeowners, the decision may be driven by aesthetics or design preferences. For others, a residential elevator fulfills a vital role, providing accessibility and independence for those with mobility needs.
Nowadays, residential elevators come in a variety of builds, offering different structural and visual advantages depending on what your specific needs entail. There’s also a relatively large degree of customization that goes into the building of a modern home elevator, which lends itself to different choices regarding models and styles.
Once you’ve established your reasons for wanting/needing a home elevator, you can start looking at the logistics behind the actual installation process. This leads to the next step, which is
Step 2- Evaluate your home’s structural advantages and limitations
Before you venture any further into the process, it is imperative that you properly assess your home’s structural capacity. You can begin this step by asking yourself a couple of key questions pertaining to the specifics of your home.
- Is there a pre-existing place where an elevator could be easily installed? Unless you’re building a home from the ground up, this is a question that you’re going to have to ask yourself. Every home is different, and the ease of installation will vary depending on your home’s preexisting layout. However, here are some common places in your home that might work well as a location for your potential elevator.
- Interior Stairwells: Interior stairwells are often the first place an elevator installation company will recommend assessing. Interior stairwells often make for a good elevator location because they can be integrated into the existing structural integrity, oftentimes with relative ease. This approach allows for the builder to maximize the use of space while simultaneously minimizing the overall impact on the home’s existing floor plan. This location is often preferred by homeowners who want to install an elevator in a way that is discreet and well-integrated.
- Exterior walls: Exterior walls can also be a solid option, especially if you lack preexisting space within the home itself. They’re also ideal for those who would rather not significantly disturb the preexisting interior layout.
- Closet or pantry: Size permitting, a closet or pantry can make for an optimal elevator location, especially if they’re spaces that don’t get a lot of use to begin with. Homeowners often like the idea of a closet or pantry because it allows for an elevator installation, while still maintaining a level of privacy.
- Open floor plan: It might initially seem counterintuitive, but an open floor plan can allow for an interesting aesthetic installation. Elevators in these types of layouts are often installed in the epicenter of the room, creating a visually striking and bold design statement.
- Garage: Home elevators can also be integrated into a garage. Garage installations are often favored by homeowners who are seeking optimal accessibility as these elevators are ideal for accommodating heavy things like wheelchairs and scooters. They also allow for a level of privacy when one is coming and going from the house.
- Basements: If your home has a basement, you may want to consider installing your home elevator there. Basements are usually a good choice for those who want their elevator to have full reign and access to the entirety of the home.
- And more: While the aforementioned locations are often the first place that homeowners consider when contemplating potential installations, there are still several other options you may vet. Among them are: atriums, exterior towers, sunrooms, and bedrooms.
- Or, will new construction be required? Sometimes there simply isn’t a safe or practical way to install an elevator into your home’s preexisting structure. If this is the case, your home will require new construction in order to accommodate a residential elevator. This, of course, is going to increase the costs associated with the project which are usually high to begin with. Moreover, additional construction means a longer timeline for the project at large.
Naturally, unless you’re a professional, it’s impossible to know with 100% certainty whether your preexisting structure is an ideal candidate for an installation. Nevertheless, you can still scope your property prior to consulting your installation team. From there, a reputable installation company will be able to help guide you and present you with the best options.
Step 3- Consider and plan for the overall cost of the project
Main Financial Factors:
Once you’ve established whether or not your home is a potential candidate for an elevator installation, this is when you’ll want to start considering costs. Most people assume that something like an elevator installation will probably cost them a decent amount of money. However, like most home improvement projects, there’s a lot of different variables that go into determining the overall cost of the build. For instance, where you choose to build within your home will significantly impact pricing. Additionally, the type of elevator you choose and the building/finishing materials you opt for will substantially influence costs.
As a matter of fact, it’s often the equipment involved that ends up being the costliest component of the project. Equipment alone can often be costly in itself, often including various factors like: number of stops, number of openings, gate choice, wood choice, and hardware finishes.
Outside of equipment costs, you’ll also need to consider the costs associated with the installation process. This can vary depending on where you’re installing the elevator and which company you elect to do the work. When it comes to something as expensive as an elevator, you want to make sure you’re working with a company that is reputable and experienced. An elevator is a major investment and should be treated as one when deciding who to hire for the job.
Other costs you’ll want to potentially be prepared for? Another major financial component is the framing and construction costs. Even if a potential elevator location appears to be optimized for the build, there are still going to be sizable construction costs. For instance, the framing process, which ensures you have the necessary vertical space to accommodate the elevator.
Furthermore, there will inevitably be costs associated with electrical work. Your elevator will run on your home’s power supply, which means it will have to be installed and configured properly within your existing system. Not only that, but your elevator will need to meet local electrical code requirements to ensure safety.
Additional Things to Consider:
In addition to the previously discussed factors, you’ll want to keep in mind that other variables will definitely determine the overall cost of the project. For example, finishing materials. Homeowners will choose finishing materials regardless of other mitigating factors in the home, however, many like to choose a style that meshes well with other components of the house like doors, walls, and flooring. Like any other home improvement project, certain materials are going to result in different pricing outcomes. Finally, there are oftentimes additional costs accrued based on things like:
Building permits:
Depending on where you’re located, you will be required to adhere to local laws and regulations regarding permits and inspections. It is imperative that you follow all of the necessary guidelines as laid out by your specific city and/or county. Failure to do so will result in potential financial penalties, safety risks, and long-term legal headaches. Ergo, it is of paramount importance that you remain compliant with local laws and regulations to ensure you don’t find yourself in hot water. Any money you put into securing the proper permitting will pale in comparison to all of the legal costs you’ll be faced with should you fail to comply.
You should also be prepared for routine maintenance costs, as they are a necessary part of maintaining your elevator’s continued safety and optimizing its performance. Skipping out on maintenance might save you a little bit of money upfront, but major repairs will almost always cost you a pretty penny and are largely avoidable with proper maintenance.
And finally, elevator for home customization can impact your overall pricing. A sizable percentage of people who install home elevators are those who do so to help accommodate mobility limitations. Certain equipment like wheelchairs often requires things like larger doors or specific panel layouts. These additions will, of course, be reflected in overall pricing.
Total Cost Assessment:
With so many factors to consider, please keep in mind that it is impossible to accurately predict what you will be on the hook for, cost-wise. Modern day elevators have a lot of different functions and design options, making price something that can run up and down a relatively large scale. If you’re unsure about pricing, a good place to start is by talking to a reputable provider, directly. They can generally give you a ballpark figure and/or cost estimate once you relay the details of your desired project.
Step 4- Compare different types of elevators
Now that you have a general idea regarding the costs surrounding home elevator installation you can start exploring the different types of elevators available to you. You might be surprised to learn that there are actually a handful of different models to choose from.
Most Common Home Elevator Types:
- Hydraulic elevators: Hydraulic elevators get their name from the hydraulic piston used in their operating system, and they are a popular choice for homeowners. They are well-liked for their quietness, high weight limit, and the smoothness of the elevator ride itself. However, they do have extra costs associated with their operations (as they typically require a separate machine room).
- Traction elevators: Traction elevators operate using steel ropes, cables, and counterweights. They are often chosen by homeowners who want an energy-efficient option that can span multiple floors. They do, however, often require more space than other models, and this can increase their costs.
- Pneumatic (Vacuum) elevators: Pneumatic models rely on air pressure and a cylindrical tube. They often take on a more modern and sleek appearance that is favored by many. They do tend to produce more noise and have a smaller weight limit.
- Wheelchair Lifts: While not technically categorized as an elevator, wheelchair lifts serve a similar purpose. Wheelchair lifts are specifically designed to help promote accessibility. It is, of course, incredibly important that we see widespread accessibility implemented across society as a whole. However, it is crucial that individuals feel they can comfortably and competently navigate their living spaces. This makes elevator lifts an optimal solution for those looking to create increased accessibility in the place where it matters most, their own home.
Other Less Common Options:
Homeowners can also opt for other types of machine-room-less elevators, winding drum elevators, shaftless elevators and outdoor elevators. At this point in the process, a professional will be able to help guide you through the different options and can recommend which variety sounds like the best fit based on the needs of you and your household, and, the pre-existing features and floor plan of the home you will be installing the elevator within. This leads us to our final step:
Step 5- Pick a reputable elevator installation company
When it comes down to it, an elevator is a costly but worthwhile investment. When done right, it can both revolutionize the lives of those in the home and transform the functionality of the home. This is why it is crucial that you choose a reputable company with a history of proven experience to oversee and complete the work properly. A company like Day Elevator & Lift, a KLEEMANN Company, will ensure that the installation, from start to finish, is done well and done right.
About Day Elevator & Lift, a KLEEMANN Company
DAY Elevator & Lift, a KLEEMANN Company, specializes in the consultation, design, and installation of elevators, lifts, and a wide range of accessibility products and solutions for both residential and commercial use. As a trusted partner for homeowners, contractors, builders, developers, and architects, we focus on convenience, safety, and full ADA compliance, ensuring seamless integration of our product solutions into a single-family home, a multi-unit community, a commercial building such as office buildings, airports, stadiums, shopping centers, theatres, museums, industrial facilities. DAY Elevator & Lift will partner with you through every phase of your project.
By joining forces with KLEEMANN, one of the most important manufacturers in the global market, our list of high-quality services has grown. We are proud to embody KLEEMANN’s renowned commitment to excellence, delivering top-tier products and cutting-edge solutions for both people and freight.
Author
This article was developed with the support of the Day Elevator & Lift team.
Disclaimer
The information in this article is provided for general educational purposes only and does not constitute professional engineering advice. Elevator and lift systems are complex machines, and all installations, repairs, and inspections must be performed by a licensed and qualified technician. Always consult a professional to ensure your equipment complies with local building codes and safety requirements.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs) FOR HOMEOWNERS
How do I decide where to place an elevator if my home has limited space?
Many homes have more flexibility than homeowners realize. Common installation locations include interior stairwells, stacked closets, exterior walls, garages, and even open areas that can be converted into a small hoistway. A professional evaluation helps determine the safest and most efficient placement based on your home’s structure and layout.
What are the different types of driving systems (hydraulic, pneumatic) for elevators?
Hydraulic elevators use a piston system to provide a smooth, quiet ride and typically support higher weight capacities. They may require a small machine room depending on the model. Pneumatic (vacuum) elevators operate using air pressure, offering a compact footprint and a modern, transparent design ideal for homes with limited space. Each system has unique advantages depending on your goals, budget, and available square footage.
Does a home elevator require a lot of maintenance?
Home elevators do require routine maintenance, but the level of upkeep is generally manageable. Most manufacturers recommend annual or semi‑annual service, and many local building departments require periodic inspections to ensure continued safety and code compliance. Regular maintenance helps the elevator operate smoothly, reduces the likelihood of unexpected repairs, and extends the overall lifespan of the equipment.
For more details on maintenance programs, visit: https://www.dayelevator.com/elevator-maintenance/
Are there options if I don't want a full elevator shaft?
Yes. Several solutions require minimal construction. Shaftless home elevators travel through a simple floor cut‑out and are ideal for smaller homes. Wheelchair lifts are another excellent option for homeowners focused primarily on accessibility rather than full vertical travel.
Explore accessibility options: https://www.dayelevator.com/wheelchair-lifts/
Will I need special permits to install an elevator in my house?
In most areas, yes. Residential elevator installations typically require building permits and inspections to ensure the project meets local structural, electrical, and safety codes. A reputable elevator company will handle the permitting process for you and coordinate all required inspections to ensure full compliance.