Installing a lift in your home or commercial space can be a great investment, but it’s also a large expense. The good news is that there are ways to keep costs down without sacrificing quality or safety. In this guide, we’ll walk through what impacts the price of a lift and provide some tips on how to reduce your overall costs.
What Is the Estimated Cost of a Standard 2-Story Lift?
On average, the cost of a standard lift for a two-story home, including installation, ranges from $35,000 to $60,000. The exact price will depend on the type of lift, the manufacturer, and the level of customisation you choose.
Cheaper Lift Options
When it comes to reducing costs, the type of lift you choose plays a significant role. Here’s a look at some of the more affordable lift options:
- Hydraulic Lifts: Hydraulic lifts are often less expensive upfront compared to electric or air lifts. However, keep in mind that they may have higher long-term maintenance costs due to the need for regular servicing of the hydraulic components.
- Platform or Basic Lifts: Some lifts, like platform or through-the-floor lifts, can be more affordable because they don’t require a full enclosed shaft. These lifts are more economical to install and maintain.
What Determines the Bulk of the Costs?
Several factors can influence the overall price of your lift. Understanding these can help you make choices that align with your budget.
- The Manufacturer You Choose: The cost of a lift can varies greatly depending on the manufacturer. At Lift Experts, we work with up to eight different manufacturers from Europe and Asia. This allows us to find competitive pricing options that match your needs. Some manufacturers may offer more affordable options, while others specialise in high-end or custom designs that come with a higher price tag.
- Shaft Construction: If your lift requires a shaft, this can significantly increase costs. Glass or steel shafts are particularly expensive due to the materials and construction involved. If you’re looking to reduce costs, consider opting for a simple, enclosed shaft built from standard materials.
- Glass Lifts vs. Standard Lifts: Glass lifts and glass shafts are beautiful and can add a modern architectural touch to your home, but they are also more expensive than standard lifts. If you’re on a tight budget, opting for a standard enclosed lift can help reduce costs without sacrificing functionality.
- Number of Floors and Weight Capacity: The more floors your lift needs to cover and the more weight it needs to bear, the higher the cost will be. For example, lifts that serve multiple floors or have a higher weight capacity for large groups or wheelchair access will require a more robust (and pricier) system.
Additional Features That Increase the Cost
Customising your lift with extra features can also drive up the price. Here are some of the most common add-ons that increase costs:
- Automatic Doors: While convenient, automatic doors tend to add extra costs compared to manual doors. If you want to save money, manual or semi-automatic doors can help reduce the final price.
- Custom Lighting and Flooring: Custom finishes, such as designer lighting, high-end flooring, or decorative panels, can make your lift stand out but will also increase the cost. Stick to standard finishes if you want to keep your project within budget.
How to Keep Costs Down
- Choose the Right Manufacturer: Working with a lift expert that offers a range of manufacturers can help you find a lift that suits both your needs and budget.
- Consider Basic Designs: Opting for standard finishes and basic lift designs will reduce the overall cost. Custom glass lifts or high-end finishes may look great, but they can quickly inflate your budget.
- Minimise Customisation: While it’s tempting to add every custom feature, consider what’s necessary for your needs. Stick to essential features and avoid extra accessories like custom lighting or flooring if you’re looking to save.
- Avoid Complex Shafts: If possible, avoid opting for glass or steel shafts. These materials are more expensive to install and maintain compared to standard enclosed shafts.
At Lift Experts, we specialise in helping you find the right lift for your home or building at the best possible price. With access to options from eight different manufacturers, we can offer a variety of choices to fit your space, needs, and budget.
Ready to explore your lift options? Contact Lift Experts today for a consultation!