Can You Install a Ceiling Hoist in an Older Building?
Installing a ceiling hoist in a facility can make a huge difference in mobility, comfort, and care efficiency. However, older properties come with unique challenges that must be carefully considered before installation.
Wall Construction May Be Unsuitable
In many older buildings, wall materials may be outdated or compromised. You may encounter:
- Soft or decaying plaster, which can crumble when attempting to secure fixings.
- Lime block walls, which are often non-loadbearing and unsuitable for supporting any weight-bearing equipment.
Before beginning any installation, it’s crucial to identify what the walls are made of and assess their condition.
Narrow Passageways and Limited Access
Older buildings often have tight corridors and narrow doorways, which can present logistical difficulties when bringing equipment like tracking systems into the room. In some cases, adaptations or alternate routes may be required just to get the components to the installation site.
Challenge Dave
Worried about whether a ceiling hoist can be installed in your building? Our experts love a challenge – so bring it on! Dave, our project manager, is known for his creative solutions. In one case, he even fitted a bath into a window to make sure users got the care they needed. No matter how tricky your project may seem, we’ll find a way to make it work.
Outdated or Unsafe Wiring
Ceiling hoists typically require electrical connections for powered movement. Unfortunately, wiring in older buildings may be outdated, degraded, or non-compliant with modern standards. A thorough electrical assessment is necessary to ensure safe and functional installation.
Timber Framing Risks
Where timber joists or frames are involved, you could face issues such as:
- Dry rot, which weakens timber and makes it unsafe for loading.
- Hidden structural issues that may only become apparent when attempting to fix into the wood.
It’s not always possible to detect these issues through visual inspection alone, which brings us to the next important point.
The Need for Structural Surveys
Given the potential for unseen structural weaknesses, a structural survey is strongly recommended before installing a ceiling hoist in an older property. This assessment can:
- Determine load-bearing capacity
- Highlight areas of concern (e.g., timber rot, cracked walls, unsupported ceilings)
- Help avoid costly repairs or safety risks later
What’s the answer Dave?
It’s entirely possible to install a ceiling hoist in an older building, but the process requires greater awareness, thorough assessment, and often specialist input from structural engineers or building professionals.
If you’re unsure whether your property is suitable, it’s best to get a professional site survey done early in the planning process.
