Retrofit elevators are rapidly gaining popularity in homes across North America, with more homeowners than ever opting to invest in one. But while some home elevator retrofits are relatively straightforward, others often require more planning. Older homes, in particular, come with their own unique set of considerations before construction can begin.
Understanding the factors that come into play with retrofit elevators can help you determine whether it’s right for your home. Below, let’s review some of the key considerations for installing a retrofit elevator in an older home. Read on with us here at RAM Elevators + Lifts.
The Challenge of Older Homes
While older homes offer unique appeal and charm, retrofitting one isn’t always the same process as with a newer home. If your home was built prior to the mid-1990s, it likely wasn’t designed with elevator clearances in mind. While small elevator models are available on the market, even these elevators require sufficient vertical clearance for proper installation.
Unlike many homes built today, older homes often feature non-standard characteristics. Features such as sloped floors, uneven framing, and narrow floor plans often require special consideration during the planning process. That said, these unconventional structural differences don’t mean that installing a retrofit elevator is impossible. In most cases, it simply means additional time is needed to prepare the space for installation.
While the exact work depends on the home itself, it may sometimes involve initial home modifications, like floor leveling and framing work, to be completed before the installation can proceed.
Location, Location, Location
Where you place the elevator in the home is just as important as the elevator model itself. As with any home, a retrofit elevator can’t be installed just anywhere. The area must accommodate the elevator’s shaft and any clearances.
Common retrofit elevator installation locations include:
- Closets
- Near staircases
- Secondary spaces
Some modern multi-storey homes, in particular, are built with what’s known as stacked closets. Stacked closets are vertically aligned closets on each floor, making it ideal for an elevator shaft. Though stacked closet floor plans have been used for decades, they’re less common in certain older homes, such as bungalows. Homeowners work alongside their RAM technician to find a location that meets installation requirements, supports their own needs, and requires minimal home modifications.
A Dedicated Power Source
Just like any appliance, a retrofit elevator needs sufficient access to electricity. Elevators can draw significant streams of power, so they must be installed at their own dedicated power source. This can sometimes be a consideration for older homes, especially those that haven’t been renovated for some time. These homes may require more extensive electrical upgrading and rewiring before the installation can take place.
At RAM, our high-quality elevators require:
- 220 VAC, 1PH, 20A for main power
- 110 VAC, 1PH, 15A for shaft lights & plugs
Before installation day, your technician will assess available circuits and confirm whether the existing power supply is sufficient.
Upgrade Your Heritage Home with RAM
When done right, a retrofit elevator can upgrade your heritage home with both additional value and character. It’s a future-forward way to keep your home functional while preserving its charm.
If you’re ready to learn more about our complete home mobility solutions, reach out to the RAM team today. We’re here to help provide you with a quote or connect you with a dealer near you to find the right solution for your home.