Elevator shafts

Elevator shafts are prefabricated concrete structures that are self-supporting enclosures for passenger, freight and hospital elevators. They are manufactured from concrete class C35/45 in modular prefabrication technology, ensuring precise execution and compliance with all safety and fire protection standards. They are used in residential, office, hospital and industrial buildings as an economical and fast structural solution for vertical communication.

For each elevator shaft project, the price is calculated individually based on the height of the structure, section dimensions, elevator type and fire requirements. We guarantee comprehensive technical advice, static calculations and professional installation of prefabricated elements. We invite you to get a free quote tailored to the parameters of your building.

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Prefabricated elevator shafts – a complete solution for elevators

Elevator shafts are a key structural element of any building equipped with passenger or freight elevators. Prefabricated concrete elements manufactured under controlled factory conditions guarantee the highest quality workmanship and the dimensional precision necessary for the proper functioning of elevators. The modular system makes it possible to quickly realize shafts of different heights and cross-sections.

The production of the elevator shaft is based on the use of concrete of minimum class C35/45 with a compressive strength of 45 MPa. The main reinforcement of A-IIIN steel laid according to the analysis of static and dynamic loads from the operation of the elevator. The thickness of the walls 15-20 cm provides adequate stiffness and sound insulation.

Construction of prefabricated elevator shaft

The elevator shaft consists of modular segments 2.8-3.5 meters high, which corresponds to the standard floor height. Each segment is made as a monolithic reinforced concrete frame with openings for landing doors. The system of joining the segments by means of released reinforcement and pouring joints ensures the continuity of the structure.

An important element is the ventilation of the elevator shaft implemented through vents in the upper part of the structure. The system of natural or forced ventilation provides air exchange in accordance with PN-EN 81-20. The cross-section of the ventilation holes minimum 1% of the cross-sectional area of the shaft.

Dimensions and types of elevator shafts

Standard elevator shafts dimensions are adapted to typical elevators: passenger (1600×1700 mm for 8 persons, 1800×2000 mm for 13 persons), freight (2000×2500 mm for 1000 kg, 2500×3000 mm for 2000 kg), hospital (1500×2700 mm for hospital bed). Minimum internal dimensions specified by standards to ensure safety.

Modern panoramic elevator shafts with structural glazing on one or more walls. The reinforced concrete structure is the supporting frame for the facade system. A solution used in shopping malls, hotels and prestigious office buildings.

Reinforced concrete shaft production technology

Reinforced concrete elevator shaft manufactured in steel molds to ensure dimensional accuracy of ±5 mm. Concreting in horizontal or vertical position depending on the type of element. Vibration compaction guarantees homogeneous structure and smooth surfaces.

The prefabricated elevator shaft system includes all the necessary components: shaft walls with door openings, overhead shaft with beams for the machine, underneath shaft with shock absorbers, supports for the guides. Complete delivery of all elements speeds up installation.

Advantages of prefabricated elevator shafts

Speed of implementation of elevator shafts

Prefabricated elevator shafts are assembled 10 times faster than monolithic structures. It takes 2-3 hours to assemble one floor using a crane. A complete 10-story shaft ready in 5-7 working days.

Precision of elevator shaft construction

The prefabricated elevator shaft maintains dimensional tolerances of ±5 mm throughout its height. Ideal verticality of ±10 mm/30 m height crucial for elevator guides. Accuracy of door openings eliminates problems with stop door installation.

The economics of the elevator shaft

A prefabricated elevator shaft costs 30-40% less than a monolithic one when labor is taken into account. Elimination of system formwork saves 15-20% of costs. Reducing construction time reduces overall costs by 25%.

Safety of elevator shaft ventilation

Prefabricated integrated elevator shaft ventilation ensures proper air circulation. The system prevents condensation of moisture and corrosion of steel elements. Proper ventilation increases the life of the elevator by 30%.

Accuracy of elevator shafts dimensions

Precise elevator shaft dimensions eliminate the need for matching elevator components. Standardization of dimensions facilitates servicing and replacement of parts. Modularity allows easy adaptation to different types of elevators.

Aesthetics of panoramic elevator shafts

Panoramic elevator shafts create a striking architectural element in the building. The glazing offers passengers views during the ride. The system increases the commercial value of the property by 10-15%.

Durability of reinforced concrete elevator shaft

The reinforced concrete elevator shaft has a service life of more than 100 years. C35/45 concrete resistant to dynamic loads from elevator operation. Minimal maintenance costs – only painting every 10 years.

Complexity of prefabricated elevator shaft

Prefabricated elevator shaft supplied as a complete system with all components. Integrated guide brackets, engine room beams, inspection openings. One supplier responsible for the entire structure.

Use of elevator shafts in different types of buildings

Elevator shafts are universally used in all categories of building structures requiring vertical communication. Prefabricated shaft structures are adapted to the specific requirements of different types of elevators and buildings. The modular system allows the realization of both standard solutions and non-standard constructions.

Multi-family residential buildings

In apartment blocks, the elevator shaft is a standard solution for passenger elevators with a load capacity of 450-630 kg. Typical internal dimensions 1100×1400 mm for 6 persons or 1350×1400 mm for 8 persons. Design suitable for installation of elevators with gearless electric drive for quiet operation.

The elevator shaft system in tall buildings over 25 m requires fire elevators. Shaft made in fire resistance class EI 120 of concrete C35/45. Separated fire vestibule with overpressure.

Office buildings and business centers

Office buildings use mechanical elevator shaft ventilation for thermal comfort. Group shafts for 2-6 elevators in one shaft. The group control system optimizes the movement of elevators.

Prestigious office buildings use elevator shafts dimensions enlarged for panoramic elevators. Cabs with dimensions of 1600×2100 mm for 13 people at speeds of up to 4 m/s. Increased headroom for high-speed elevators.

Shopping malls and service facilities

Panoramic elevator shafts are popular in shopping centers as an eye-catching feature. Reinforced concrete construction only on the rear wall, the rest glazed. Panoramic elevators with a capacity of 1000-1600 kg for 13-21 people.

Reinforced concrete elevator shaft system must handle increased loads from the crowd. Reinforced guide support for smooth operation under full load. Additional sound insulation in the area of the commercial premises.

Hospitals and health facilities

In hospitals, the elevator shaft prefabricated for bed elevators with dimensions of 1500×2700 mm. Lifting capacity of 1600-2500 kg allows transport of bed with apparatus. Smooth wall surfaces facilitate disinfection.

Additional elevator shafts prefabricated for clean elevators in operating blocks. Overpressure system prevents penetration of contaminants. Sealed installation passages with germicidal sealing.

Hotels and tourist facilities

In hotels, the design of the elevator shaft takes into account the transport of luggage. Service elevators with a capacity of 1000 kg with a rear entrance. Increased sound insulation Rw>55 dB in the room area.

Luxury hotels use a prefabricated elevator shaft for shuttle elevators without intermediate stops. Speeds of up to 6 m/s require increased structural rigidity. A vibration damping system at the top of the shaft.

Industrial and storage facilities

In production halls, elevator shafts for freight elevators with a load capacity of 2000-5000 kg. Reinforced construction for loads from forklifts. Dimensions adapted for EUR pallets 1200×800 mm.

High-bay warehouses use an elevator shaft for loading platforms. Construction on different mezzanine levels. A system of protection against falling goods.

Multi-storey parking lots

In parking lots, the elevator shaft is often exposed without additional cladding. Architectural concrete surface painted with epoxy paint. Reinforced ventilation for exhaust.

Historic and modernized facilities

In retrofitted townhouses, the ventilation of the elevator shaft is often hampered by limited space. Prefabricated with a reduced wall thickness of 12-15 cm. Self-supporting structure independent of old walls.

Educational buildings

In schools and universities, elevator shafts dimensions adapted to the movement of disabled students. Elevators with a lifting capacity of 630-1000 kg with an enlarged cabin. Access control system integrated into the structure.

elevator shafts

Technical parameters of elevator shafts

Elevator shafts are designed and manufactured in accordance with PN-EN 81-20:2014 for safety regulations for the construction and installation of elevators. The structure meets the requirements of PN-EN 1991-1-1 (Eurocode 1) for loads and PN-EN 1992-1-1 (Eurocode 2) for reinforced concrete structures. All the elements have a CE declaration of performance.

Material parameters of the structure

Prefabricated elevator shafts are made of concrete of minimum class C35/45, for high-speed elevators C40/50. The characteristic compressive strength fck = 40 MPa. Modulus of elasticity Ecm = 35 GPa. Exposure class XC3 for interior shafts, XC4/XF1 for exterior shafts.

Elevator shaft reinforced with class A-IIIN (B500B) steel with yield strength fyk = 500 MPa. Degree of main reinforcement 0.8-1.2% of the concrete section. Contraction reinforcement φ8 every 20 cm. Reinforcement cover 30 mm on the inner side, 35 mm on the outer side.

Dimensions of standard shafts

Typical elevator shaft internal dimensions: passenger elevators 450 kg (1100×1400×H mm), 630 kg (1350×1400×H mm), 1000 kg (1600×2100×H mm), hospital elevators 1600 kg (1500×2700×H mm), 2500 kg (2000×2900×H mm), freight elevators 2000 kg (2000×2500×H mm), 3000 kg (2500×3000×H mm).

Thickness of elevator shaft walls: 150 mm for shafts up to 30 m high, 180 mm for 30-60 m, 200 mm above 60 m. Height of modular segment 2800-3500 mm. Dimensions of door openings in accordance with PN-EN 81-20.

Ventilation parameters

The ventilation system of the elevator shaft provides: the area of ventilation holes min. 1% of the cross-section of the shaft, openings in the upper part of the shaft (above the shaft) and the lower part (below the shaft), ventilation grilles with mesh against rodents. Capacity of natural ventilation 0.5-1.0 exchanges/hour.

Structural loads

Reinforced concrete elevator shaft structure designed for: vertical load from guides 15-25 kN/guide, horizontal load from elevator operation 0.5-1.5 kN/m guide, load from safety grabbers 2×Q+P (Q-lift, P-cab mass), load from buffer 4×g×(Q+P).

The prefabricated elevator shaft must carry dynamic loads: dynamic coefficient of 2.0 for grippers, 1.4 for normal operation, natural frequency > 10 Hz. Horizontal stiffness L/1000 under operating load.

Fire resistance

Fire resistance class of prefabricated elevator shafts: EI 60 for low buildings (N), EI 120 for medium-high (SW) and high buildings (W), EI 120 with separation for fire elevators. Reinforcement lagging increased to 45 mm for EI 120.

Acoustic parameters

Sound insulation of the walls of the elevator shaft structure: Rw ≥ 52 dB for 150 mm thickness, Rw ≥ 55 dB for 180 mm, Rw ≥ 58 dB for 200 mm. Noise level in the shaft max 65 dB(A) when the elevator is in operation.

Overhead and underhead

Minimum heights for a prefabricated elevator shaft: headroom 3600 mm for v ≤ 1.6 m/s, 3800 mm for v ≤ 2.5 m/s, 4200 mm for v ≤ 4.0 m/s. Sub-rail 1500 mm standard, 2000 mm for hydraulic elevators.

Installation tolerances

Accuracy of installation of elevator shafts: verticality ±10 mm per floor height, ±25 mm for the entire height, internal dimensions ±10 mm, position of openings ±20 mm, flatness of walls ±10 mm per 3 m.

Accessory equipment

Panoramic elevator shaft system includes: aluminum profiles for glazing, VSG 10.10.4 safety glazing, EPDM seals, forced ventilation 3-5 exchanges/hour Heat transfer coefficient U ≤ 1.5 W/(m²-K).

elevator shaft component

Installation of elevator shafts – instructions for implementation

Proper installation of prefabricated elevator shafts requires precise preparation of the foundation, accurate positioning of the first segment and maintenance of verticality throughout the height of the structure. The process is carried out using a tower crane or a self-propelled crane with the appropriate overhang. The modular system allows installation ahead of the building structure.

Preparation of the shaft foundation

The foundation for the elevator shaft made as a 40-60 cm thick reinforced concrete slab of C25/30 concrete. Dimensions exceeding the shaft outline by 20-30 cm on each side. Top and bottom reinforcement with φ12 meshes every 15 cm. Surface leveled with an accuracy of ±5 mm.

In the foundation for the elevator shaft, a cavity for the sub shaft of 150-200 cm is made. Installation of sub shaft drainage with drainage to the sewer. Foundation anchors for the buffer buffer according to the elevator design.

Installation of the first segment

First segment of elevator shaft ventilation set on shims or alignment mortar. Checking the levels and internal dimensions with a cross laser. Alignment tolerance ±5 mm horizontally, ±3 mm vertically.

Temporary stabilization of the segment with struts to the ceiling or walls of the building. For freestanding elevator shafts dimensions used stabilizing frames. Minimum 3 support points at different heights.

Installation of more segments

Panoramic elevator shaft segments lifted by crane by 4 attachment points. Guided by directional cables by 2 fitters. Lowering speed max 0.5 m/min in the final phase.

Embedding on a layer of adhesive mortar 10-15 mm thick. For a reinforced concrete elevator shaft, alignment with a wedge and level. Connection of the reinforcement released by welding or mechanical fasteners.

Making structural connections

Horizontal joints between segments of prefabricated elevator shaft filled with C30/37 concrete. joint width 50-80 mm allows good filling. Joining reinforcement 4φ16 in the corners, 2φ12 every 50 cm around the perimeter.

For prefabricated elevator shafts used additional steel brackets on the outside. M20 mechanical fasteners every 1.5 m for transmission of horizontal forces. The system provides rigidity during elevator installation.

Assembly of the elements of the superstructure

Overhead beams for elevator shaft construction with a section of 40×60 cm for standard elevators. Span adapted to the width of the shaft plus 30 cm of support. Load bearing capacity from the elevator machine 20-50 kN.

In the prefabricated elevator shaft system, the superstructure slab is 20-25 cm thick. Mounting holes for machine slings. Inspection hatch 80×80 cm with descent ladder.

Installation of elevator guides

Guide brackets installed in elevator shafts every 1.5-2.5 m in height. M16-M20 chemical anchors in prefabricated sockets. Installation accuracy of guides ±1 mm/5m for standard elevators.

For panoramic elevator shafts, guides often only on the rear wall. Increased rigidity of the supports for torque transmission. Vibration isolation system for high-speed elevators.

Implementation of ventilation and installation

Elevator shaft ventilation system installed after construction. Ventilation grilles in the above shaft and below shaft. For mechanical ventilation, axial fan with a capacity of 500-1500 m³/h.

Installations in the elevator shaft: lighting every 3 m in height (50 lux), 230V service outlet in the sub shaft, alarm and intercom installation. All cables in protective tubes.

Quality control of the assembly

Acceptance of the reinforced concrete elevator shaft includes: measurement of verticality (max ±25 mm/30 m), inspection of internal dimensions (±10 mm), checking the straightness of the guides (±1 mm/5 m), ventilation leakage test.

Documentation of the prefabricated elevator shaft: acceptance protocols of individual segments, results of surveying measurements, certificates of welders and materials, protocol of load test of the shaft superstructure.

elevator shaft elements

Elevator shafts price – elevator structures calculation

Elevator shafts price is shaped by the height of the structure, the dimensions of the section, the class of fire resistance and the degree of surface finish. The quote includes the cost of design, production of prefabricated segments, transportation and installation. Elevator shaft price significantly depends on the type of elevator – passenger, freight or hospital – and special requirements such as panoramic glazing.

Cost structure of elevator shafts

The main component affecting the elevator shaft price is the cost of prefabricated parts, which accounts for 60-70% of the value. The price of a standard segment with a height of 2.8 meters is PLN 8000-12000, depending on the dimensions. Elevator shaft price for a complete 10-story structure is 80000-150000 PLN.

Transportation and installation account for 20-25% of the total cost. Ventilation of the elevator shaft price is an additional 3-5% with a natural system, 8-12% with a mechanical system. Finishing the surface with paint or plaster is another 5-10% of the outlay.

Price list 2024 for elevator shafts

There is an increase in demand for prefabricated elevator shafts in 2024. Elevator shafts dimensions price in 2024 for a standard 630 kg passenger elevator is 8000-10000 zloty/storey. Panoramic elevator shafts price in 2024 higher by 40-60% due to the glazing system.

Current rates in 2024 show that the price of a reinforced concrete elevator shaft per meter of height is PLN 2800-3500 for a standard section. Increasing the dimensions for hospital elevators raises the price by 30-40%. In 2024, manufacturers offer discounts of 10-15% for orders of more than 3 shafts.

Price forecast for 2025

Predictions for 2025 indicate stabilization of precast concrete prices. Precast elevator shaft price in 2025 may increase by 3-5% mainly due to energy and transportation costs. New acoustic standards may increase wall thickness, raising costs by 5-8%.

Modular systems with faster assembly are expected to become widespread in 2025. Prefabricated elevator shafts may drop in price by 10% due to production optimization. The development of BIM will facilitate design, reducing costs by 15-20%.

Cost comparison of different systems

Analysis shows that elevator shaft construction costs 35-45% less than monolithic elevator shafts. Steel shafts are 20% cheaper, but require housing and have worse acoustics. The prefabricated elevator shaft price competes with the masonry one when taking into account construction time.

Self-supporting glass shaft systems cost 200-300% more than concrete ones. Steel-concrete hybrid structures represent a price compromise – more expensive by 20-30% than purely concrete ones.

Construction cost optimization

Reduction of expenditures on elevator shafts price possible by using typical elevator dimensions. Avoiding non-standard solutions reduces costs by 20-30%. Grouping shafts into communication shafts reduces unit costs by 15%.

Savings at the elevator shaft price by abandoning architectural concrete in favor of painted concrete. Use of natural ventilation instead of mechanical ventilation. Advance installation eliminates temporary security costs.

Operating costs of elevator shafts

Operation of the elevator shaft maintenance price minimum – cleaning and painting every 8-10 years (50-100 PLN/m²). Technical inspections every 2 years in accordance with the UDT (PLN 300-500). Possible repair of expansion joint seals every 15-20 years.

Modernization of elevator shaft ventilation price when replacing the elevator 5000-10000 zloty. Adaptation to new fire regulations PLN 15000-25000. Total cost in 100-year life cycle lowest among all technologies.

Costs of additional equipment

Elevator shaft system dimensions price increases with additional equipment: machine room on the roof of the shaft PLN 15000-25000, mechanical ventilation PLN 8000-15000, smoke extraction system PLN 12000-20000, panoramic glazing PLN 800-1500/m².

For panoramic elevator shafts, the price of structural facade 30000-50000 zloty/floor. Integrated access control system 5000-10000 zł. LED lighting with motion sensors PLN 3000-5000/shaft.

Funding and subsidies

Support programs for elevator shaft reinforced concrete price when eliminating architectural barriers – subsidies 50-80%. Tax credit for elevator modernization 17% of the cost. Operating lease with installments of 1500-3000 PLN/month for a 10-story shaft.

Seasonal discounts prefabricated elevator shaft price in winter 10-15%. For complex purchase (shaft + elevator) negotiated discounts of 8-12%. Regular customers receive preferential prices and terms.

The final elevator shaft prefabricated price of each project requires an analysis of local conditions, elevator type and special requirements. We offer free technical advice and a preliminary quote. A comprehensive calculation takes into account all elements of the system.

The investment in a high-quality elevator shaft structure price pays for itself through trouble-free operation and minimal maintenance. Feel free to contact us to prepare a detailed elevator shaft offer tailored to your project.

Here are just some of our realizations regarding our prefabricated products. This list includes only major investments on which our prefabs have appeared.

What are ?

Precast concrete units are prefabricated building components produced off-site that can be assembled into larger structures at the project site. These are standard, repetitive modules produced in series at industrial plants, which greatly speed up and facilitate construction work in various construction sectors.

What are the types of ?

Reinforced concrete. prestressed concrete, post-tensioned concrete – 20+ types

What is the use of ?

Rapid modular construction of various structures

What are the properties of the ?

Repeatability, precision, speed of installation, durability

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