Living by the ocean is wonderful for people and tough on anything mechanical. Salt-laden air finds its way indoors and settles on metal, electrical contacts and moving parts. A home elevator in a coastal house needs a little more attention than one inland.
What salt air does
- Corrodes unprotected steel and fasteners
- Dulls and pits metal finishes
- Leaves deposits on door tracks and sensors
- Can affect electrical connections over time
Start with the right specification
If you are buying an elevator for a coastal property, ask about corrosion-resistant finishes and hardware, and where the drive equipment will be located. Tell your installer how close the house is to the water.
Service more often
An annual visit is the usual minimum. Near the ocean, ask your service provider whether a shorter interval is advisable. A technician will clean and inspect components you cannot reach, and catch corrosion early.
What you can do
- Wipe down cab surfaces, handrails and door frames regularly with a soft cloth and a suitable cleaner
- Vacuum door tracks and sills to remove sand and grit
- Clean glass panels inside and out
- Keep windows and doors near the elevator closed in heavy marine weather where practical
- Run the elevator regularly, especially in a second home
Second homes
A beach house that stands empty for weeks needs a routine. Ride the elevator through all floors each time you arrive, check the lights and the alarm, and schedule servicing before the season starts.
Watch for these
- Visible rust or discoloration on hardware
- Doors that drag or hesitate
- New noises
- The cab stopping out of level
Other equipment
The same advice applies to outdoor stair lifts and platform lifts, which are even more exposed. Rinse rails with fresh water and keep covers on.
Arrange service
Nationwide Lifts of Southern California maintains the home elevators we install. Call (714) 228-9982 or contact us.