At first it does sound rather lazy – don’t climb those stairs, take the lift instead. Why lug the groceries or the suitcases – just ‘lift’ them up to the beach house. And to be sure in a number of cases, a cargo lift for a home or weekend dwelling may seem like overkill – what’s wrong with climbing a few stairs anyway. Why undergo the expense and the inconvenience of a major structural alteration to your living space?
Who needs a cargo lift?
Obviously only you as a home owner can decide whether you actually need a device such as this, or whether you only want it. However there are some reasons why a Legacy cargo lift can make a lot of sense:
ü For seniors, a cargo lift is not only convenient and useful; it may actually be a requirement that is medically indicated. Reduced mobility, arthritis, rheumatism and similar age related diseases could curtail activities. For seniors, an easy to operate lift could be indicated. Simply lugging a bag of groceries up or down the stairs can be a strain for an older person. Even the chances of falling on the stairs are far higher than they would be with the help of a lift
ü People with disabilities would also need something like a cargo lift to help access an upper floor independently and without assistance. They can do so whether they are in a wheelchair, on crutches or other type of walking aid.
ü Cargo lifts are popular with people who own holiday properties in the hills or on beaches. These dwellings typically tend to be multi level, cottage type structures – utterly charming but not particularly well designed for frequent lugging of large bags up and down the stairs. So people who frequently take long holidays to their weekend retreats, may want to consider a cargo lift.
ü For some dwellings an internal elevator may not be possible – quite simply there may not be any space and the shape and dimensions of the structure may not allow for it. A stair lift may be a good alternative here; however this will only transport a person and not luggage or cargo. In situations like this an external cargo lift may be the only option
What structural alterations are required for installation?
One of the first reasons a property owner would hesitate to have a device like this installed is the fact that some considerable structural alterations would be required for installation. In many cases, a cargo lift may be able to be installed with minimum structural alterations. However you would have to have your property assessed to determine whether it is possible to install in your dwelling.
If you decide to get your property assessed for the purpose of installing a Legacy lift, be sure to get a complete estimate, including all installation costs, guarantees and after-sales service. Also ask plenty of questions about the suitability of the lift for seniors, the speed of operation, the size of the controls, ease of operation and whether remote control is available or not.
About the author:
Sarika Periwal is an interior design and home improvement enthusiast. She has consulted on various design projects and written for numerous publications, both online and offline. Check out Legacy Lifts to make your holiday home more comfortable.