Elevator cab sizes chiefly depend upon the space you have available (and not the size of your floors), the number of people expected to be using it everyday, and the maximum weight that would need to be vertically transported. And these concerns must also factor in the need for expansion in the future, not just present needs. You must also bear in mind that technologies as well as compliance requirements could change over the course of the next 5 years.
Minimum Home Elevator Cabin Size
As an example, if you have to choose a home elevator that can accommodate a wheelchair-bound person with a disability, then the elevator cab should be 36 inches by 48 inches in dimension. You should then add 12 inches for each dimension for the hoistway. Once you’ve picked your dimensions, you may not be able to invest in a new elevator construction for the next 10-12 years as elevator installation is a capital expense.
How Many Elevators Do you Need for Your Building?
The International Building Code (IBC) requires a building with 4 or more floors to have at least one elevator. But most commercial buildings will have more than one to ensure brand ambience. Hotels and hospitals, in particular will require separate service elevators to transport wheeled luggage, beds, patients, and so on. A general
rule-of-thumb for low-rise hotels is to put in one elevator for every 75 rooms/units. However, two elevators are standard for most brand requirements.
Sizes of Passenger Elevator Cab Interiors
Usually, a passenger elevator should be 80 inches by 65 inches in dimension. Your elevator should also be able to carry loads between 3,000 and 4,000 pounds per elevator.
Sizes of Service Elevators
Note, also, that service elevators need to open into back-offices and internal units, not visible to the general public or visitors. A building with 4 or more stories will also require an elevator that can accommodate an ambulance stretcher, typically sized 24 inches by 84 inches. The service elevator doors, in this case, should open along the length and have a minimum weight capacity of 3,500 pounds (IBC).
Where Should Your Elevator Lobby be Located?
Ideally, the distance to any elevator should not be greater than 150 feet. However, this location can vary depending upon the size and shape of your building floor.
Take into account elevator lobby cladding sizes, elevator handrails, sizes of elevator ceiling panels, and other elevator cab interior design elements to match the aesthetics as well as the functionality of your elevators when determining the size you’ll require. For example, you might want to add laminate lift lobby wall panels to meet
fire safety norms. Or, you may want to include air vents and lighting to illuminate the setting within the cabins.
Do you have any further queries regarding elevator wall claddings, materials, and installation? Feel free to talk with our experts and get professional advice without any obligations.