The University of Illinois Elevator Mechanics regularly service and repair elevators, dumbwaiters, and wheelchair lifts on campus; and they also perform state-mandated elevator inspections. Their tasks are essential to meeting the safety and usability needs of campus.
Additionally, the mechanics possess the skills necessary for constructing and modernizing elevators, as was made evident during the recent Chemistry Annex Renovation Project. The building’s existing elevator, though not part of the original project scope, needed refurbishing as a result of wear and tear during the building’s renovation. The project team reviewed the various delivery options available to them and due to a number of factors, the mechanics were chosen to oversee the project.
The Initial Chemistry Annex Renovation Project did not have funding allocated to repair the elevator’s cab. As a result, Project Manager Matt Firmand, had to ensure he went with a cost effective option. Said Firmand, “Due to the price they quoted along with their ability to complete the project within our timeframe, we knew we should procure the services of the university mechanics.”
The quality of work and experience of the mechanics also factored into the decision to utilize in-house services. “Our elevator mechanics have more than 125 years combined experience and before coming to work at the university, the majority of their duties consisted of modernizing elevator cabs and systems,” said Vince Schaub, Elevator Mechanic Foreman.
Modernizing the elevator’s cab provided the benefits of a new elevator at a much lower cost. New structural side panels with wood finish were installed along with light panels for the ceiling, handrails, and toe kicks. As a result, the elevator now matches the aesthetics of the newly renovated building.
Elevator modernization not only improves upon attractiveness, it can also make the unit more safe and reliable. This means fewer stuck and inoperable elevators. “A lot of our time is spent on reacting to an elevator that is not working,” said Schaub. “Modernizing these outdated units can save on both time and financial resources.”
Currently, the majority of elevator modernization is performed by outside contractors though this is a service F&S intends to offer to campus customers more regularly. “With the Chemistry Annex elevator refurbishing, they were able to turn a moth into a butterfly while saving the university more than $10K in the process,” said Ken Buenting, Building Maintenance Superintendent. “The finished product speaks for itself. The quality of work performed by the university’s elevator mechanics is unbeatable.”