Traditional vs. Contemporary Elevators: The Pros and Cons



Vision 350 Residential ElevatorAt one point in time, costs for purchasing and installing a residential elevator were extremely prohibitive and out of reach for many homeowners. Yet, as prices are now more reasonable, residential elevators are becoming more and more popular and are now fixtures that not only improve convenience and mobility inside homes, but also increase property value.

Homeowners, as well as small business owners, are faced with two choices: traditional and contemporary home elevators. What's the difference?

Most traditional elevators implement a cable-driven or hydraulic system, while contemporary elevators mostly use a pneumatic, or vacuum, system. The cable-driven or hydraulic mechanism mirrors typical commercial elevators, and as a result, traditional elevators have high weight capacities – a crucial quality for families and business owners. The hydraulic drive system that many traditional elevators use is considered the safest and is known for its smooth, quiet ride.


Pneumatic Elevators: Compact Design

In more recent years, pneumatic technology, and the more compact design for such elevators, has eliminated installing a hoistway and machine room – two essential but costly qualities of traditional systems. The lack of a pit and machine room, as well as a self-contained hoistway and cab combination, significantly decreases installation costs and time. The cylindrical design additionally allows contemporary elevators to be installed almost anywhere. Although these models tend to be smaller, many are big enough to carry someone in a wheelchair.

Anyone who lives in a multi-level home will notice convenience is expanded with an elevator. A residential elevator can reduce risks associated with common household tasks, from taking the laundry to the basement to bringing the groceries up from the garage.

Benefits for The Elderly and Physically Disabled

Beyond convenience, people who will see the biggest benefits are the elderly and physically disabled. Many people are forced to leave their homes in old age or injury because they are no longer able to independently live alone. For many, bedrooms and bathrooms are upstairs, and when stairs are too great of an obstruction, homeowners or family members must leave the home they love. A residential elevator make it possible for anyone to regain their independence and mobility, as moving between floors turns into a more straightforward, less injury-prone task.

<< Back to Articles

There is simply no other company that can offer you all of this.

If you are looking for a customized quote or just want to ask a question, get in touch with Nationwide Lifts today to start talking to a Home Elevator expert.