Retrofitting a car lift: what does your garage need?
A parking lift uses the height of a garage as well as its floor area. This can create additional spaces without extending the building sideways. Whether a retrofit is suitable depends on the building, the vehicles and everyday use – not just the available ceiling height.
Check space and structure first
Clear height, usable width and parking-space length all matter. Beams, pipes and the garage door’s operating area can reduce the available space. Some systems require a pit. Structural capacity, fixings, drainage and building alterations need project-specific assessment.
Include the vehicles in the plan
Record the length, width, height and weight of the intended vehicles. Ground clearance, door opening and a possible future vehicle change also matter. Permitted dimensions vary by model and configuration; describing a vehicle simply as an SUV is not enough.
Dependent or independent parking?
Dependent parking may require moving one vehicle before another can leave. Independent systems avoid that preliminary move. The right choice depends, for example, on whether one family or several unrelated users share the installation.
Does every parking lift need a pit?
No. Building requirements vary between systems. However, a model without a pit is not automatically suitable for every existing garage. Headroom, usage and vehicle dimensions must be considered together.
How do you start a project in Switzerland?
Send alftechnik photographs of the garage and access, available plans, approximate measurements and vehicle details. These help prepare the initial consultation. A definitive design requires precise checks; any necessary approvals should also be clarified with the relevant authorities.
