Elevator refurbishment could be the solution. But with approximately half of all elevators in the USA or Western part of the globe more than 30 years old, elevator owners/operators are often faced with questions about what to do with their old elevator.
- Elevator Modernization
- Elevator Refurbishment
- Elevator Replacement
- Continue Repairing
Often enough, there are options to either modernise, refurbish, or replace the equipment. Elevators, like cars, get old and need replacing. But with lifts, unlike most modern cars, rather than replacing the whole lift, it can be more economical and appropriate to modernise or refurbish the lift.
Elevator modernization or refurbishment?
Every elevator eventually reaches a point in its life where servicing and maintenance will simply cost more than replacing a new elevator or refurbishment, even though issues can be fixed. It is at that point that you should definitely think about remodeling your elevator.

The idea of modernization should come from your requirements. You want to upgrade some mechanical parts to perform well or give them a new look. On the other hand, refurbishment indicates giving the same look as before or a newly installed elevator.
The amount of use and the weight of the elevator are important factors, as is the elevator’s lifespan. For example, compared to residential lifts, business elevators encounter more issues and breakdowns. Furthermore, elevators that are utilized infrequently typically exceed their lifespans.
Modernizing an elevator does not always indicate that it has troubles; at times we desire to enhance its performance and design.
Repair or Replacement:
When the life of your elevator is almost over, pay special attention to maintenance and malfunctions. It suggests that the lift will be out of commission for a considerable amount of time if it is difficult to acquire replacement parts since the mechanism has grown outdated. In commercial and high-rise buildings, this can be a nightmare. When parts in such constructions become obsolete, it’s a sign that the elevator needs to be replaced.
Elevator replacement involves gutting the entire system and replacing it with a brand-new one, and it requires more money, time, and permits than modernization. If you don’t have to replace the entire system, modernization is the best way to improve your elevator.
Modernization is certainly an investment, but it’s one that pays off. The process can increase the value of your building, improve tenant satisfaction, increase safety, and improve energy efficiency. It’s also a smart way to ensure that your systems are operationally prepared to handle another 20+ years.

When to Continue With Repairs
Whatever the case, make sure you have an elevator maintenance plan. This is a monthly agreement that includes routine, top-to-bottom inspections and service for your elevators. A plan like this is essential in that it keeps your equipment and your passengers safe, while also helping you avoid incredibly high repair costs.
The biggest advantage of an elevator maintenance plan is that it’s intended to minimize risk for the elevator owner.
In some cases, the elevator might be fully functional but appear outdated. In this situation, a cab modification—replacing the flooring, walls, and panels—will suffice.
Elevator repair: While the lifespan of an elevator is important, as previously mentioned, the frequency of use should also be considered. An elevator used only two or three times a week will have a significantly longer lifespan compared to one that operates around the clock.
Finally, contacting your elevator service company and seeking their opinion on whether the life needs minor repairs, major overhauls, or a complete replacement a option, as these personnel have more information on the availability of parts and the design and functionality of the elevator. Keep in mind that full replacement of an elevator is more costly than refurbishment.
You can also learn about all other kinds of elevator solutions by reading our blogs.
To get a modernized or replacement solution, you can contact MCE, Nidec Elevator Group