by Monique Swyer

Created on: March 11, 2009

The best way to install a home elevator is to find an elevator dealer in your area who can install it for you. Elevator mechanics have to be trained for a few years before they can lead a project. Even trained elevator mechanics are killed on the job, so it is best for homeowners not to try to install an elevator themselves. Also, in some states, it is not legal for homeowners to install their own elevators or lifts, so check with your state's Department of Labor regarding local codes. There is quite a bit of work that goes into preparing for the elevator. If you want to be more hands-on with your project, you may be able to do some or all of this prep work yourself.

To get ready for a home elevator, you will need to build a shaftway, either within the footprint of your home or on the outside wall of your home. The typical shaftway is 52" wide and either 4'9" or 5'9" deep, depending on the car size you choose. Most elevators will require a pit depth of 6" - 12" below the level of your lowest floor. This is usually easiest to do if you build outside the footprint of your home. The shaftway is just typical stick built construction, however you have to adhere to the dimensions given to you by your elevator contractor. Your local elevator dealer is a great resource for you. They have (or should have) many years of experience working with contractors and homeowners and will be able to aly everything out for you or your contractor. For more details on preparing for an elevator, check out the website www.EasyElevators.com.

If you are interested in a home elevator, there are many different brands and levels of elevators available. Choosing an elevator is actually very similar to choosing which car to buy. They all will get you from Point A to Point B, but some will take you there in style while the others will just get you to your destination. The higher end elevators are quieter and smoother, just like a Mercedes has a different ride than a Volkswagon. The price is actually less about the cab finish and more about the components that you can't see. Even a cheap elevator may look great, just as you can add leather seats and premium sound to an inexpensive car but you won't be able to reduce road noise or improve handling. Your decision is going to depend mostly on your project budget.

To figure out your budget, you will need to consider both the cost of the elevator as well as the cost of the construction to get ready for the elevator. Typically if you have to hire a contractor to do the construction work to prepare for the elevator, you can figure on doubling the cost of the elevator. The average elevator is around $22,000, however some very low end models can be found in the $13,000 range and very high-end models can cost well over $100K. For more details on residential elevator pricing, see the information at www.ElevatorAtlanta.com. Pricing of course may vary greatly based on where you live and the requirements of your state. Installing a home elevator is a great idea, as long as leave the actual installation to the experts!

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