Are you thinking of installing a lift in your home or community? Once you make the decision to incorporate this vertical mobility platform, it is normal for several questions to arise, such as how long it takes to install an elevator, especially in buildings or places with a high influx of people.
Controlling process times is important, as installation affects the daily routine of residents. In this article, we will analyze in detail the process of installing an elevator, the approximate times of each stage, and the factors that affect the total duration of the work
How long does it take to install an elevator? The first steps
Before answering this question, it is key to note that in order to know precisely how long it takes to install an elevator, specific aspects of the installation process that directly affect the time required must be considered.
From taking measurements to executing the installation, the company selected to carry out the work must comply with a series of steps that guarantee the safety, regulatory compliance and operability of the equipment.
Typically, the manufacturing process for an elevator takes about 12 to 14 weeks, but installation encompasses much more than that. It involves a detailed analysis of the building, the development of the project, the management of permits, the installation of guides and structures, the assembly of the elevator, electrical connections and functionality tests, among other aspects.
In this context, it is essential to understand that each stage varies in duration according to specific factors. For example, the complexity of the building and the number of floors can influence the time needed for initial analysis and project planning.
Estimates on how long it takes to install an elevator
Having approximations of how long it takes to install an elevator implies understanding that times vary depending on the following aspects
Building characteristics and accessibility
- Height and number of floors: The more floors a building has, the greater the complexity of the elevator installation process, since the journey you will have to travel will be longer. For this reason, you can’t estimate installation time in a three- or four-story building in the same way as in a taller one. In a lower building, the process can take between three and five weeks, while in a taller building, it could take eight weeks or more.
- Structure and construction materials: Another key factor in elevator installation is the age of the structure and the materials with which it is built. In general, in a newer building, installation is usually faster. On the other hand, in an older building or one with a complex structure, it may take several weeks for additional adaptations or work before the lift can be installed.
- Available space for the elevator shaft: When the building already has a shaft prepared for the elevator, installation is usually quick. However, if there is no gap in the staircase for installation, one will need to be built, which can affect the overall time. Creating a gap can take an additional one to three weeks, depending on the material used and the accessibility of the area. Therefore, it is important to consider this aspect when asking how long it takes to install an elevator.
- Accessibility to the installation site: If the building is located in an area that is difficult to access, the transfer of materials can be complicated, which in turn can lengthen the time of the work. In these cases, installation may take a few extra days.
- Additional civil works: Although not always necessary, the installation of an elevator may require additional work, such as the construction of the pit, the installation of a machine room, the safety walkthrough, and the implementation of electrical and control requirements, among others. These works impact the process, extending the work between three and five more weeks.
Type and complexity of the lift
The type of elevator that will be used is a key factor in determining how long it takes to install an elevator. If a hydraulic lift is chosen, it will be necessary to build an additional pit and carry out civil works work. This type of elevator is generally used in lower-rise buildings, and its installation can take longer due to the integration of hydraulic components.
On the other hand, electric elevators, which are used in higher-rise buildings, have a much more agile installation process. However, their installation remains complex, especially due to the need to coordinate electrical and control systems. In general, the time required to complete the installation ranges from two to five weeks.
Administrative and regulatory aspects
Just as technical installation impacts the installation time of an elevator, administrative and regulatory aspects must also be considered.
- Permit and licenses: First, before starting the work, it is mandatory to apply to the local authorities for the relevant permits. These procedures can take between three and six weeks, depending on the speed of the administrative processes.
- Community of owners approvals: In residential buildings, the installation of a lift requires the approval of the community of owners. If the required majority is not obtained immediately, the process may be delayed until a consensus is reached, which may delay the start of the work.
- Compliance with local regulations: For elevators to run smoothly, they must comply with safety and accessibility regulations that ensure the well-being of users. In this way, it is crucial to have the intervention of specialized technicians and the performance of periodic inspections that can identify faults or problems before the implementation of the vertical mobility platform.
Resources, coordination and expertise of the installation company
One of the factors that most impacts how long it takes to install an elevator is the resources, coordination, and experience of the company in charge of the installation. The experience and coordination of the installation company are essential so that the work can be carried out in the right time and following the established protocols so that everything goes as expected.
How long does it take to install an elevator? Aszende has the solution to speed up the process
Aszende, con su amplia experiencia en instalación y mantenimiento de ascensores, gestiona eficientemente cada fase del proyecto, desde la planificación hasta la puesta en marcha.
Con más de 45 años de trayectoria en el mercado europeo, su equipo de técnicos especializado se desplaza hasta tus instalaciones para ofrecerte un trato personalizado y ajustado a las características específicas de tu proyecto.
Aszende offers you:
- Elevator design adapted to your aesthetic tastes and needs in terms of size, load capacity and speed.
- An effective installation in the shortest possible time.
- Technical team capable of solving any problem.
- Compliance with current regulations.
Trust Aszende to transform your space with efficient vertical mobility solutions and have greater control over how long it takes to install an elevator.
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