Frequently Asked Elevator Questions
- Is a pit required for an elevator?
- How much space does an elevator require?
- Can my elevator have doors on opposite or adjacent sides?
- How far can the elevator travel?
- Is a separate machine room required for my elevator?
- What permits, if any, are required to install a residential elevator in Missouri?
- Can a residential elevator be installed in a Church, commercial building or public building?
- Can the doors be opened if the elevator is moving or is not at the landing?
- When should I start planning for an elevator for new home construction or my remodeling project?
- How do I plan for a future elevator to be installed in my home.
- What happens if I am trapped in my elevator or it breaks down after hours or on holidays?
- Are there any tax deductions or savings when I purchase a lift?
Is a pit required for an elevator?
Yes, typically, an 8″ deep pit is required. In some cases, we can provide a type of elevator that does not require a pit, but we recommend a standard type elevator that requires a minimal pit depth.
How much space does an elevator require?
The Lev, which does not require a separate machine room, takes up about one-fourth of the space of a typical staircase.
Can my elevator have doors on opposite or adjacent sides?
There are several different ways to configure your elevator to fit nearly any situation, including opposite entrances and/or adjacent entrances.
How far can the elevator travel?
The maximum travel for the Lev elevator is 50 feet, with a maximum of 5 stops.
Is a separate machine room required for my elevator?
The Lev II Elevator by Access Industries, and the Paca-Glide Elevator by Waupaca do not require a separate machine room. Instead, the controller and machine are located at the top of the hoistway. An 30″ x 24″ access door (through the attic or adjacent room) is required.
What permits, if any, are required to install a residential elevator in Missouri?
The State of Missouri does not require any permits or inspections for residential elevators. There are some communities, however, that do require an inspection. Missouri Stairway Lift Corp. can help you determine the local building code requirements for your area, and ensure that our elevators, which are compliant with ASME A17.1-2000, Section 5.3, are properly installed.
Can a residential elevator be installed in a Church, commercial building or public building?
No. The statues adopted by the State of Missouri prohibit installation of a residential elevator in a public use facility. For these applications, a Vertical Platform Lift may be the most cost-effective solution. You can contact us at 1-800-392-2591 for a free, no obligation consultation and information about a product that will suit the needs of your organization and comply with all state and local regulations.
Can the doors be opened if the elevator is moving or is not at the landing?
No. An electro-mechanical interlock device prevents the doors from being opened when the elevator is in motion or away from the landing.
When should I start planning for an elevator for new home construction or my remodeling project?
Preparations for your elevator hoistway need to commence as early as possible. Most home elevators require a minimal 8″ pit at the basement level, which must be sized correctly and meet specific criteria for your elevator. To ensure that the dimensions and house plans are correct for your equipment, we will provide you with detailed engineered prints, preferably, prior to commencement of construction.
How do I plan for a future elevator to be installed in my home.
Elevator manufacturers are constantly changing the dimensions and requirements of their products to meet new codes and for improvements. Because of this, it is impossible to guarantee that a hoistway is properly sized for your equipment unless prints are ordered and the elevator is placed into production. An oversized hoistway is also something that requires careful consideration. Contact Missouri Stairway Lift Corp. for more information about planning for your home elevator.
What happens if I am trapped in my elevator or it breaks down after hours or on holidays?
Contact your local fire department immediately and contact us for a service appointment as soon as possible.
Are there any tax deductions or savings when I purchase a lift?
In many cases where there is a medical need determined, you can have tax savings, including sales tax exemption. Contact Missouri Stairway Lift Corp. on how to meet the requirements for medical necessity. Contact your tax professional for information on what tax deductions are available for your income taxes.
