Choosing to have a residential lift installed in your home during a home renovation is a significant decision. Apart from the fact that it requires a large investment to pay for the lift and its installation, there is upheaval within your home whilst it is being installed. Other choices such as where it will be positioned and what type of lift you want, also need to be established.
It could be that you are not yet past the point of deciding “Yes” or “No” as to whether you are going to have home lifts installed or not. As with any major decision, there are going to be positives and negatives, and ultimately it is weighing these up and seeing which comes out on top which may influence your decision the most. If you have not yet looked at both sides of the argument, here are some pros and cons of residential lifts which will make your decision easier.
PROS
Adds Value To Your Property
One of the top reasons why installing a home lift is a positive is that it can add a significant amount to the value of your property. Should you ever wish to sell your home in the future, not only should you be able to command a higher price by the fact you have a residential lift, but the desirability of your home to others will rise, making it easier to sell.
Allows Your Family To Move Safely Around Your Home
No matter how fit and able any member of your family is, using a lift will always be safer than using the stairs. More applicable is that for any family who is disabled, frail or simply unsteady on their feet, a residential lift will provide them with a safe and comfortable means of moving from one level of your home to another.
Customisable To Suit Your Home
Many people regard a lift as simply a machine that takes them from one floor of a building to another. However, with a residential lift, not only can it be customised to be located within a specific part of your home, but you also have multiple options as to its style, type, and design. These choices can take your lift from being just a practical help within your home, to an eye-catching feature that enhances the overall appeal of your home’s interior.
Can Move Objects As Well As People
We automatically associate a home lift with its ability to help people move from one floor of a home to another, but it is not just people it can move. A home lift can also help you move large or heavy objects to all floors. This negates the need to carry them upstairs which is not only a struggle but can cause injuries and worst of all, a fall.
CONS
The Expense
Likely to be cited as the main reason many people might shy away from having a home lift installed, is the cost. A decent home lift and its professional installation are likely to set you back a five-figure sum, although bear in mind that may be returned in time as your home’s value increases.
The Upheaval
Having a residential lift installed is going to create a considerable level of upheaval within your home as it is being installed. Whilst professional lift installers will do all they can to minimise the disruption, by the very nature of lift installations it cannot be avoided. You may even choose to spend a few nights in a hotel rather than at home, especially if you have young children.