When most people think about elevators, they imagine the cab, buttons, and doors—but behind the scenes, the hoistway plays a critical role in making vertical transportation safe and functional. Also known as the elevator shaft, the hoistway is the vertical passage through which the elevator car travels. Understanding the types of elevator hoistways is essential for architects, building owners, and elevator professionals involved in design, construction, and modernization.
What Is an Elevator Hoistway?
An elevator hoistway is the vertical enclosure that houses the elevator car, counterweights (in traction systems), guide rails, and related components. It must meet strict building and safety codes, including structural integrity, fire resistance, and proper clearance for safe operation.
Types of Elevator Hoistways
1. Masonry Hoistway (Concrete Block or Poured-In-Place)
Description: Traditional hoistways made of concrete block (CMU) or poured concrete.
- Advantages: Fire-resistant, sound-insulating, durable.
- Common Use: High-rise buildings, commercial properties, or structures where noise reduction is important.
2. Hoistway Enclosures with Stud and Drywall (Shaft Wall)
Description: Lightweight construction using metal studs and fire-rated drywall.
- Advantages: Faster and more cost-effective to install.
- Common Use: Mid-rise buildings or where space and speed of construction are important.
- Note: Must comply with fire rating requirements (typically 1-2 hours) depending on code.
3. Prefabricated (Modular) Hoistways
Description: Factory-built hoistway structures that are delivered and assembled on-site.
- Advantages: Reduced construction time, fewer site coordination issues, quality-controlled fabrication.
- Common Use: New construction projects, especially where rapid installation is needed.
4. Glass or Panoramic Hoistways
Description: Made with structural steel frames and glass walls for visibility and aesthetic appeal.
- Advantages: Architectural feature, often used in lobbies or high-end buildings.
- Common Use: Malls, hotels, office atriums, or modern public buildings.
- Consideration: Must meet structural and safety codes while maintaining visibility.
5. Steel Hoistways
Description: Built using steel framing with various cladding materials.
- Advantages: Lightweight and structurally sound; customizable.
- Common Use: Renovation or retrofitting projects where masonry isn’t feasible.
Florida-Specific Code Considerations
In Florida, hoistways must comply with:
- Florida Building Code (FBC), Chapter 30 – Elevators and conveying systems.
- ASME A17.1 / CSA B44 – Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators.
- NFPA 70 (NEC) – Electrical components inside the hoistway.
- Fire-rating and hurricane impact resistance may be required depending on building type and location.
Why the Hoistway Design Matters
Choosing the right type of hoistway affects:
- Safety: Compliance with fire codes and proper clearances protects passengers and technicians.
- Performance: A well-designed hoistway improves ride quality and long-term reliability.
- Aesthetics: For public-facing elevators, the hoistway can be a focal point of design.
- Cost and Construction Time: Prefab or shaft-wall hoistways offer faster installation, while concrete block structures offer longevity.
Conclusion
Whether you’re planning a new building, upgrading an existing elevator, or retrofitting a hoistway, understanding the types of elevator hoistways is essential. Each type has its unique benefits and must be selected based on building design, function, and compliance with local codes—especially in states like Florida, where environmental conditions play a critical role.