How Long Does It Take to Install a Shaftless Home Elevator?
December 15, 2025
One of the most common questions homeowners ask when exploring a shaftless home elevator is simple: How long does installation take?
The good news is that shaftless, winding drum elevators are designed to be efficient and far less disruptive than traditional elevator systems. While every home is different, understanding the process—and where time is spent—can help set clear expectations from the start.
Here’s a breakdown of what homeowners can typically expect.
What Affects Installation Time?
The total timeline for installing a shaftless, winding drum elevator depends on two primary phases (once the installation day arrives):
- Preparing the aperture (floor opening)
- Installing the elevator itself
Other factors—such as permits, inspections, and minor home modifications—can also influence the schedule.
Aperture Preparation: What Happens Before Installation
A shaftless elevator still requires an aperture, or opening, between floors. This allows the elevator to travel safely while maintaining the home’s structure and appearance.
Typical timeline:
- 1 to a few days, depending on the home
During this phase, the dealer and installer may:
- Confirm the final elevator location
- Coordinate with contractors, if needed
- Cut and frame the floor opening
- Reinforce surrounding structure as required
- Prepare the area for electrical connections
Homes with open layouts or favorable framing may require minimal work, while others may need additional preparation. Your authorized dealer will evaluate this during the in-home consultation and outline what’s required ahead of time.
Elevator Installation: The Main Event
Once the aperture is ready, the actual installation of a shaftless winding drum elevator is typically straightforward.
Typical timeline:
- 2-7 days for installation and setup
During installation, trained professionals will:
- Assemble and secure the elevator system
- Install the winding drum drive components
- Complete electrical connections
- Test safety features and smooth operation
- Ensure proper alignment and performance
Because winding drum elevators are engineered for residential environments, they generally require less construction and fewer components than traditional elevator systems.
Permits, Inspections, and Final Approval
Most residential elevator installations require permits and inspections to meet local building and safety codes.
Your authorized dealer typically oversees:
- Pulling required building and electrical permits
- Coordinating inspections with local authorities
- Ensuring compliance with residential elevator codes
While inspections don’t usually add significant installation time, they are an essential part of the overall timeline and help ensure your elevator is safe, legal, and ready for everyday use.
The Big Picture: What Homeowners Should Expect
From start to finish—including preparation, installation, and inspection—many shaftless winding drum elevator projects are 100% completed in a few weeks—not months. The exact timeline depends on your home’s layout, permitting process, and any required modifications.
What matters most is working with an experienced dealer and installer who can plan efficiently, manage expectations, and guide you through each step.
Ready to take the next step?
Reach out to one of our trained professionals from Pollock to learn more about installation timelines, home requirements, and how a shaftless home elevator can support safe, comfortable aging in place.
Interested in Becoming a Distributor?
If you are looking to expand your product offerings or trying to reach a new market, then the Pollock Residential Elevator could be perfect for you. Reach out to our team to learn more.
