Elevator Forum Produces Results. For those of you who are new to Modular Elevator Manufacturing (MEM) we are an elevator manufacturer. But not your typical company. We are trying to foster a revolution in an old industry that has not changed in 150 years. To help in that effort, we have sponsored a poll about the elevator industry so people in the construction industry can let us know the challenges they face when an elevator is part of their project. You can still participate by clicking the button below. It is just five short questions.
We then take those results and further define the issues you face by holding an open forum and clarifying the issues. The next step is then to make an honest effort to reform an industry in desperate need for a revolution. We will make changes to how we do things but also publish important information that you can use across the industry regardless of who you choose for your vertical transportation needs.
One vertical industry at a time we will be offering these opportunities for change. Our first was a success with the parking garage industry. The results of the forum were not surprising, but interesting to say the least.
First, when we said we were having a free and open discussion, we expected people to strain to participate with a largely one-sided conversation. Nothing could be further from the truth. We went through each of the poll questions and listened. To our surprise there was a lot to hear.
For instance when we asked specifically about time of completion and the elevator’s impact we were shocked at the candor.
The elevator installation “Usually creates major delays” to “Usually creates some delays”.
This is a major pain-point for the builder and the elevator industry.
Discussing that single issue propelled a discussion that elevator manufacturers need to hear more about. It seems that the overriding thought from builders across the construction industry is that the elevator installer are actually looking for ways to leave the jobsite. That leaves timetables for completion unpredictable.
It turns out that elevator mechanics once they get on the site are often looking for ways to get back off the site as fast as they can. We know many of the major reasons that occurs. An emergency somewhere else is a good reason if true. But they become more difficult to swallow after that and seem more like excuses. Examples such as it is too hot or too cold in the hoistway or shaft has led to a running joke in the elevator business (especially in colder climates), the technician watches the thermometer more than the time clock. If it drops below 55 degrees, time to go home.
The elevator company will sometimes come clean with an acknowledgement they double booked or they are trying to finish up another job somewhere else.
You will hear that they don’t have all the parts they need.
But a new reason to abandon the jobsite from wayward elevator mechanics came to light as well. I had never heard this one before. It is too dusty in the shaft. That was a new one on me.
Overall, because of a lack of trust in the industry as a whole or lack of trust in an individual company, builders are just not buying it.
This discussion led to the most damning indictment of the whole conversation. The elevator company is just looking for reasons to leave the site and they are not team players.
“The elevator industry generally takes the opinion, too bad.”
The feeling of the group in the forum was that everyone in the construction trade from plumbers to electricians have failings; they double book, they fall short in deadlines and have cost overruns. But after its all said and done they do their best to finish the job on time as promised. The other trades think through the problem or through the difficulty and work with the rest of the team to pull it all together.
That may or may not be an accurate picture, but it is the perception. The elevator industry generally takes the opinion, too bad. That has to stop.
I always hate using football as an analogy, but it fits here. When I was playing I could miss a tackle or a block, miss a read or blow an assignment, but if I did everything I could for the team to be a success it was forgotten (usually after 100 down and ups). It is true that I might have to ride the pine, for a game or miss a first-half, but all was forgiven. I was welcomed back. No one was never endanger of being kick off the team for a mistake.
The elevator industry has a habit of acting like they can do what they want, when they want and there is nothing that can be done. Mistakes are common and often and little effort is made to make them right. If this keeps up they are going to find themselves kicked of the team.
But the time for change is coming. A revolution is starting. It may begin small, but we are hoping to detect the pain-point through the polling and forums and then lead to find solutions. It is going to take honest communication throughout the construction industry from architects to elevator maintenance companies, but change is on the way.
And this leads to the final point where we usually turn all this information into a pitch for our revolutionary product. Yes, you can click the links below for more information if you want, but that is not the purpose.
If you want to be a part of the elevator revolution and improve the way the elevator is placed, designed, started up and maintained we invite you to be a part of the solution. You can start by taking the simple five question poll. It will only take a couple minutes. You can then contact us and ask to be included on future phone conferences. We will discuss the poll in its entirety and you can have a hand in influencing the future of the elevator industry.
If you want more information about the MEM Elevator System just click the link below.
Shark Bite and Modular Elevators – Newhart Middle School/Mission Viejo, CA. Innovation can be hard to accept and try. In Mission Viejo however, they are embracing innovation and teaching it in a brand new facility at Newhart Middle School.
At the recent open house Superintendent Kirsten Vital Brulte said, “We look forward to seeing how they use this innovative space to further their STEAM education.” There is no doubt the facility will be put to good use, but there could be a bigger lesson about innovation and acceptance of technology that we all could learn.
This lesson of trying innovation struck a cord with me during a recent home renovation. We added on to our modest farmhouse a kitchen and upstairs bath. Of course to keep the costs under control, my wife and I decided to do some of the work ourselves. I am not totally without skills. The result is we took over some of the obvious stuff that we knew we could do. Painting, trimming out windows and doors and baseboards.
I also considered making the plumbing a DIY project. It was just a sink and dishwasher in the kitchen. Pretty straight forward. However, I was worried as it had been sometime since I sweated pipes. I then looked into Shark Bite plumbing and my suspicious mind started racing. It looked easy…too easy. If I used the snap together plumbing, I would definitely be able to avoid the difficulties of copper, but at what cost? Was this truly going to snap together so easily and hold?
I would have definitely saved a ton of money, been able to put the plumbing in faster and complete the job on my schedule, meaning the kitchen would be ready sooner. You can only eat take-out off of paper plates for so long.
Ultimately, however, I wasn’t convinced. I just couldn’t do the job with this new fangled product.
We got a great reference for a plumber and so after he saw the plans and agreed, I wrote a check and scheduled the job. Weeks went by but in his own sweet time he arrived. However, as he clambered out of his van, what did I see? Rolls of PEX tubing. Also, all his shelves were filled with connectors and fittings for snap together plumbing. He said that for jobs like mine, that was what everyone is using. It was easy and quality.
I watched agog as he went to work. It was as he promised and I had been a fool. I could have saved money, time and effort by doing it on my own with a more advanced product. Before lunch, he was out the door telling me to call if there were any problems and let him know when everything else was done so he could set the fixtures.
I guess you sometimes just have to live to learn.
I immediately saw parallels between Newhart Middle School, Shark Bite and Modular Elevator Manufacturing. The MEM Elevator System and snap together plumbing have been on the market for over twenty years. Both are innovative and have revolutionized their industries. They are proven to reduce time, reduce costs and are just as good as what they have replaced. High-quality is a must for a commercial elevator.
Lastly in my case regarding plumbing anyway, both struggle with acceptance. Shark Bite and modular elevators have a hurdle to clear. They must convince the market by seeing them in action and by being open and honest about what is offered and the differences between the revolutionary and conventional.
So we are working hard to provide examples of our product, like Newhart Middle School pictured. What you are seeing is a fully installed elevator being placed through a hole that was left in the build. It was set in just a couple hours and was started up in a couple of days. Revolutionary!
As you can see, the project looks great. It went in faster for the school with no disruption to classes and overall their embracing of innovation in what they teach and how they teach it, will be a lesson for all.
If you would like to see about this project or others like it, we are opening up our factory to live, virtual tours at your convenience. All you have to do is click the button and fill out a simple form. We will then schedule the tour at your convenience. During the tour we will answer any and all questions. You can also schedule an in person visit as well.
Lastly, if you have a project in mind and want to speak directly to one of our representatives fill out the Fast Track form. We can provide you a thumbnail number in hours.
For more great photos of the project, visit our good friends at Miller Construction. Their team did a great job!
Place your elevator order now. There are three distinct dynamics currently at play right now at Modular Elevator Manufacturing (MEM). These dynamics may come into play regarding your elevator order. They may influence when you pull the trigger so we want to be up front in all respects.
We are facing challenges just like most of the construction industry with supply issues and inflation. Elevators are unique, but not unique enough to avoid basic economics. So the current climate inevitably leads to the following question. When do you pull the trigger and OK the elevator order? You know you need one…so when do you start the process. Below are some things to consider.
First, we recognize that times are tough or at least getting that way. These tough times extend to all your suppliers us included. As a result we want to let you know everything we can to keep you informed. See, we understand the dilemma you are in and want to be real clear and honest about the market now and how it will effect your building project. So here are three important things to think about regarding timing of the elevator order. Consider the following:
Explaining point one in more detail. There is a myth floating around out there that an elevator can be produced in less than eight weeks. Lead times for the components alone blows that old canard out of the water. It is simply not true and if it would be possible, I’m not sure I’d ride in it. How the process really works in the modular industry is the elevator begins production based on the delivery date.
“We know deliver dates change and you don’t have a crystal ball! But it is crucial to get your project in line early.”
We simply count backwards based on the time it takes to get high-quality parts delivered and for production to occur. That is when we place your elevator in line for production. Yes, some components are produced in our factory, but like discussed in other blog posts, elevator components come from just a handful of companies. So we set the day of production beginning when the parts will arrive and so production finishes when you need the elevator. Simple math allows for you to get your elevator when you need it, not before or after. As our queue is constantly filling and emptying letting us know early by placing your order gives us more flexibility. The earlier we know we are producing your elevator the better. We know deliver dates change and you don’t have a crystal ball! But it is crucial to get your project in line early.
The second point is more difficult on everyone. If you don’t believe me, step outside and look at a gas station sign. The cost of everything delivered has been on a steady rise. Inflation is not “transitory” as first errantly promised and is probably here to stay for the foreseeable future.
The elevator industry has been somewhat shielded from the rise as only around 10,000 elevators are sold in the US every year. It seemed like there may have been enough chips, ropes, and buttons to go around, but supply is tightening.
So far we have done our best to hold the line, but it is becoming more and more difficult to avoid costs being passed on to us from others. That means if you are at a stage of where locking the elevator in is possible…do it now. Of course we would want you to lock in the MEM Modular Elevator System, but it is wise advise regardless.
The last point from above. With all construction costs set to increase, finding savings is crucial. Depending on the job, you may well be able to draw a line through an item completely in your budget. If you use the MEM Elevator for the construction elevator as well we save you money. But, keep in mind the first two points hold regarding timing and inflation. Lock in your elevator order now.
Nothing can be more irritating than facts especially if you don’t like them. But, this blog post laid out the facts about an elevator order and the need to think it through quickly. Because although this is about MEM, it is largely the same throughout the elevator industry (here’s an article). Prices are going to increase.
We can help you with your decision making process by giving you a live virtual tour of our factory where you can ask any question and get clear answers. To sign up click the button below. We can and will discuss any questions you have.
If you do have a project in mind and would like information on pricing, logistics, quality or our process just give us some general information. We will respond back with thumbnail prices and be ready to answer any of your questions of concerns.
Elevator Pain Diagnosis – Our goal is to revolutionize the elevator industry and make improvements for everyone. We are not happy with the current reputation of the elevator industry and this is part of our ongoing effort to correct problems by identifying elevator pain. But, we need you! So please read on to help us change the elevator industry for the better.
The MEM Team
We have all been there. Sitting on a paper covered, padded vinyl table with nothing more on than a flimsy, backless gown that doesn’t fit quite right. As we awkwardly fidget back and forth, trying to get comfortable and avoid the cold spots on the table, we know there is something wrong that needs special attention.
We need to get rid of the pain we have been facing, but because we are stubborn or embarrassed or both, we tend to ignore the misery just hoping it will go away. As the constant discomfort begins to needle us more and more, we finally have to breakdown and try to do something about it. So we go to the exam room and after a long wait the doctor finally strolls in and the first thing out of his mouth is, “Where does it hurt?”
It is a funny question because we have already told the receptionist where it hurts, the nurse, our significant other, and anyone else that would listen to us complain. But now we are speaking to someone that can actually get to the root of the problem and make the pain, hopefully, disappear–so we tell our tale of woe.
It seems with elevators and construction projects there is pain as well, but there are no experts looking for the root problem to the pain we face. But no one doubts when it comes to a multi-story project there’s a sizable amount of it. Just like the pain we feel when we have a doctor’s visit, we have told countless others about the constant throb that drives us to the brink of insanity. It is real and not unusual as it is universal to the construction industry, yet the problem seems to be undiagnosed and outside of our grasp. In the whole of the construction industry, there is nothing that slows down a project more or creates more friction than the elevator. That said how do we get relief?
It starts with assessing the pain. The list of pain points is exhausting: “We were promised a fully functioning elevator in three months,” “The cost is not what was promised,” “I am being change ordered to death,” “I call and call and no one ever answers even basic questions,” “The bad weather is delaying the elevator,” “The elevator company has halted all other construction until they are done,” “Missing parts slows the project,” “It seems the elevator company is working against us instead of with us,” “Why must they take up so much room on the site?” and more and more and more.
Each of these problems are typical and create issues that mean delays, cost over runs, and pain for all parties involved. But we are going to start doing something about it. But we need you to tell us where it hurts.
You are a leader in the construction industry. It is why you get the monthly newsletter. And we are the largest manufacturer of modular Elevators. For too long there has been a disconnect between your trade and the elevator industry. It seems we are almost speaking different languages.
Both of us seem to be missing each other in the planning, coordination, installation and start up. But that does not mean we have to accept it or live with it anymore. We can improve and to do so we are looking for some help in closing the information gap.
Ultimately, we would love to put together a guidance document for elevators in general, establish a professional group and have open forums to assist both industries with coordination and integration. However, we know and understand the value of your time. So, to get the conversation started we were hoping a simple five question poll could get us pointed in the right direction.
We hope you will help. The elevator industry has not been a very good partner in many ways, so you will not hurt our feelings by being blunt. We know making systemic changes will take honest dialog and we are willing to listen.
Here is a link to the survey. It should take less than five minutes to complete. Remember it is a starting point and we will share all of the results to begin understanding each other.
Just in case you want to see what we do, you can click to schedule a tour. Or if you are intrigued by us you can get a fast track quote.
There are distinct advantages to the use of modular elevators for parking structures. This is especially true when adding the MEM Elevator System to you next project. Conversely, adding a conventional elevator to a new or existing parking facility can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. Beyond that the process can take months. The MEM Elevator System is an architectural solution, which effectively deals with these issues, saving you time and money. Those are distinct advantages of the modular elevator and set us apart from other alternatives.
The MEM Elevator System, is a prefabricated the hoistway which is manufactured off-site in a remote location. This allows the modular elevator to be manufactured in the plant simultaneously to the construction of the parking structure.
Unlike conventional elevators, modular elevators don’t need to be an inherent part of the parking structure they are servicing. Instead, they are easily attached to the existing structure. This often is on the exterior of the building without having to share the same foundation.
For an existing parking structure that is adding floors and needs a vertical transportation system, a modular elevator is the ideal solution. It extends the life of the parking facility when adding a modular elevator. You will lose no square footage – all while ensuring accessibility for everyone.
Also, placing the modular elevator on-site before the parking facility is fully built is possible. It can even can be used as the construction elevator – as long as power is available.
See, regulators typically require a temporary construction lift for projects over three stories. The alternative is an elevator to be installed at a job site. A permanent modular elevator can be used to meet these requirements. It then eliminates the need to rent and expense a temporary lift. That in itself demonstrates distinct advantages of the modular elevator.
Additionally, modular construction offers shorter build times; typically 50 to 60 percent less than a traditional on-site construction project. A modular elevator can be up and running before a conventional hoistway is built. This provides an earlier return on investment and lower professional fees.
The two most common vertical transportation solutions used in parking facilities are hydraulic and traction machine roomless (MRL) elevators. Both are available full-sized for commercial use and both are equal in performance and quality.
Hydraulic has the advantage of being easier to install and maintain. This makes them a less expensive choice in the long run. As a result hydro elevators are the recommendation we most often make. They are in use in parking structures between two-to-five stories and are available with holeless-twin or in-ground jacks. Holeless hydraulic elevators use above-ground cylinders and are used in sustainable or cost-sensitive projects with two to three floors. With the holeless elevators you can eliminate the unknowns related to drilling for in-ground jacks.
The in-ground hydraulic system can easily accommodate five stories or even higher. It provides a smooth ride and lower maintenance costs overall.
The traction MRL is an option, that offers little more than the hydraulic units. It is marginally faster (literally seconds) and can achieve higher total travel. However, the additional speed comes with a cost of higher maintenance fees.
It is important for the contractor to work closely with the modular elevator manufacturer. They should be involved when planning and installing a modular elevator for a successful installation. Logistics and timing play an important role in maximizing the financial opportunities that modular elevators afford. The MEM team offers support, coordination and communication in the process.
The first step in the installation process is pouring the concrete elevator pit. The anchor bolt template from MEM is useful for precise positioning. Second, once the elevator is set in place, it is attached to the anchor bolts and verified to be plumb. You now have a fully installed elevator.
Next, the fully-assembled modular equipment room is set into place. This installation process is usually completed by lunch time. No kidding.
After the elevator is set, electrical, fire and phone services are provided and final adjustments are completed. Upon inspection and approval by the appropriate jurisdictions, the elevator is ready for use in a matter of days.
As you can see modular elevators offer many benefits over conventional elevators. For all low and mid-rise applications in new and retrofit construction we are the preferred solution.
Lastly, we can customize the ready-to-use MEM Elevator System. In that way we can meet the needs of any project. And the end results are indistinguishable from conventional construction. They are also available with vandal resistant features because we all know a parking garage elevator needs to be tough. One thing for sure there are distinct advantages of the modular elevator for the parking industry.
We hope we have laid out a good argument for the advantages of the modular elevator for parking structures. So if you have any interest contact us at any time. We will help you think though potential uses. If you have a project in mind, click the Fast Track button below. You will be provided a thumbnail number and receive additional information. If you would like to see how we create the elevator, you can register for a Live Virtual Tour. Or come visit our factory in person. We would love to show off a bit.
Modular Timeline the Secret of Success. When it comes to success in construction it usually boils down to getting the job done on time. You can have the greatest plans, design or ideas, but if not executed in a timely fashion the value diminishes.
Construction projects outside of infrastructure generally are built for occupation. Any delay of occupancy is money out of the pocket of the owner or investor. That means pressure on everyone and makes time extremely important. That is the primary reason for success of modular and the modular timeline.
This striking revelation occurred to me when speaking with a building owner. He was checking up on a project with the project’s manager. The build in question was the first time this particular owner had sunk time and money into a modular project. Needless to say he was a bit apprehensive. However, after getting a breakdown of the progress he was amazed.
He claimed the modular elevator alone made him a million dollars based on faster occupancy. That may have been an exaggeration. However, the smile on his face when he said it, made it more than convincing to me.
See, he was long in the tooth so to say in the traditional construction industry. As such he was filled with doubt regarding timelines. That doubt bled over to concerns regarding the completion date promises of the modular companies employed. His feeling of skepticism was well warranted based solely on his background in the traditional construction trades. He became numb to the habits of contractors. They make promises and then excuses and then more promises as they face delay upon delay. He expected nothing less with a modular timeline on the project. But to his pleasant surprise the timeline was kept and ancillary benefits began to pop up.
So what is the modular timeline compared to that of traditional building and why does it matter?
I have used this chart a number of times from the Modular Building Institute. The institute and their entire staff are a great center for information and knowledge regarding modular construction.
Want to dive deeper? I would highly recommend that anyone curious at all should attend their upcoming World of Modular convention. It is in San Antonio, Texas – April 25-28. We will be there in person for additional questions about modular in general and modular elevators.
Back to the timeline graph. It clearly demonstrates the time savings overall for most projects as there is multitasking employed to take advantage of off-site manufacturing. When modular units are built in factories, the time is simply shortened. But what is not incorporated in this chart are the ancillary time savings and benefits.
The secret of success of the modular timeline is slowly, but steadily and surely getting out. More and more builders and building owners are taking the plunge. They are exploring what modular has to offer and how the modular timeline can be a huge benefit.
But what about the timeline for modular elevators? Is that as beneficial? The answer simply is yes. The MEM Elevator System is beneficial for the whole project and the results are stunning especially when taken of advantage of in full. Can you imagine how your project would change if you could determine when your fully installed elevator arrives? Then started up in less than a week? Or realizing it goes in so fast it often doubles as the construction elevator on the job? That is a game changer, especially in current times where every penny counts. Take a look at the timeline below.
So now is the time to act if you have any questions about modular elevator or the MEM Elevator System. If you are the least bit curious about Modular Elevator Manufacturing just click the button below. You can get a LIVE VIRTUAL TOUR of our factory. We will pull back the curtain and let you look at our process and how we are leading the modular and elevator revolution.
Do you have a project in mind? To get thumbnail numbers to consider, just click the Fast Track Quote button below. We will be in touch in less than 24 hours. At that time we will give you an idea of how your project will be improved and your investment. You will also find out what it takes to make a change for the better.
I just finished writing a great blog about how Modular Elevator Manufacturing (MEM) is in complete in support of the Modular Building Institute (MBI). Also, included is how we support the modular building industry as a whole and promote the benefits of modular construction. We are even going to the MBI annual convention (see more below)! Then I realized that many could confuse our support with use of our elevators. To be clear and to set the record straight, our MEM Elevator System is compatible with any structure type.
The ability to be compatible, depending on the height, is that MEM elevators are designed to be self-supporting. That means they can be place on the interior or exterior of buildings. Regardless of the construction method used MEM is a fit. Everything from post-and-beam construction to heavy steel framing can use a modular elevator. Even concrete structures can and do incorporate modular components, including the MEM System.
In real terms there is no difference in the use or components in a traditional or a modular system. Our commercial quality elevators are just that, high quality. Modular is just superior. The MEM System provides a fast, high-quality solution that allows you to decide when the unit arrives. When you need it, it is delivered. An elevator shaft lowers into place with a factory installed elevator inside and ready for start up.
Another application that traditional elevators really struggle with are when it comes to retrofit projects. They are a piece of cake for us. Modular elevators are used in additions to structures, exteriors of existing buildings, stadiums and also in the center of existing buildings. And, it is not as hard as it sounds. The good news is that we have had decades of experience. With our help you can determine the best way to place the elevator regardless of the structure type. To assist we will not only provide you with drag and drop drawings, and engineered plans but expert advice. With our system and our help you will accomplish your goals for your project.
Now let’s be clear there are some limitations. MEM elevators are engineered for low and mid-rise applications. Also, depending on the location of the build, there may be some issues with crane use or getting under bridges. But, those are usually minor problems and usually we find ways to circumvent almost any challenge. Here’s an example.
So is the MEM Elevator System perfect for modular building? You bet. But, our elevators are utilized for almost every structure as well.
If you want to find out more about our system you can come and see us at World of Modular. We would be glad to speak with you about the benefits of modular and how our elevators are leading a revolution in construction. This year the conference is in San Antonio, Texas – April 25-28, 2022. If you go (and we highly recommend it) make sure and stop by booth #4. There you can discuss the elevator revolution with our national territory manager Ken Grider.
He will be able to answer any questions you may have and give you a thumbnail price on the spot. If you just can’t wait for the show, you can contact us below for a Fast Track Quote. This quick quote will give you all the pricing information you need to begin your project. You can also sign up for a LIVE VIRTUAL TOUR of our production facility. During the tour you will see how we produce the highest quality modular elevator in the industry. We will take any and all questions about MEM while we show you what we do. Find out how we are taking the elevator industry higher.
Well our full name is Modular Elevator Manufacturing (MEM). We have been in the modular and elevator business for around thirty years and as a result the modular industry is very important to us. We see modular as more than just another way to build. It is a continuing and growing methodology that has forced needed change into the construction industry and elevator industry. It has challenged the status quo with better, smarter, safer and faster ways of producing everything from homes to commercial buildings. This approach has resulted in a revolution that we are proud to be part of where there is more accountability and better processes.
For instance with the MEM Elevator System a fully-installed, commercial elevator is placed in hours and started up in a week. It is incredible and something traditional construction cannot accomplish. Our high-quality system goes in so fast that it is often used as the construction hoist to save even more money on projects.
With that said, leading the charge in the revolution towards better building is the Modular Building Institute (MBI). No doubt as they say, they are “the voice of commercial modular construction”! Their mission is to expand the use of offsite and modular construction through innovative construction practices, outreach and education. They do a fantastic job at fulfilling that mission.
So, if you are a modular producer in the construction industry you should be a part of that organization. We are at Modular Elevator Manufacturing. But more than that if you have any questions about modular, MBI and MEM regarding elevators are experts.
To show off a little bit each year MBI has an annual convention called appropriately the World of Modular. This year it is in San Antonio, Texas – April 25-28, 2022. So, if you are not a modular company but are the least bit curious about the modular industry, I would highly recommend attendance. You will find the leaders of the modular business there discussing alternatives to conventional construction and how modular building continues to grow and change the way projects are completed. It is a place to network, exchange ideas, learn from experts and discuss issues.
At MEM we see joining MBI or attending World of Modular as the first step in joining a revolution of better building and higher quality practices that is changing the world of construction. We look forward to seeing you at the show. Make sure and stop by booth #4 and discuss the elevator and modular revolution with our national territory manager Ken Grider. He will be able to answer any questions and give you a thumbnail price on the spot.
If you just can’t wait for the show, you can contact us below for a Fast Track Quote. This modular elevator quick quote will give you all the pricing information you need to get started. You can also sign up for a LIVE VIRTUAL TOUR. During the tour of our production facility you will see how we produce the highest quality modular elevator in the industry. You can also ask any questions you would like about MEM and our process.
So for some see you in San Antonio or for others, see online live!
Elevator cuts costs as inflation rises. Inflation is not just a term thrown around by the Wall Street crowd or economists. Inflation is very real, very damaging and turns out not transitory (whatever that means). As the January numbers reveal inflation is with us. And an economy does not shift at a whim especially when the all the forces are aligned for inflation and the social psychology for it has set in. The ripples are felt throughout the nation in every home and every sector.
That is especially true in the construction industry. We are engage in long-term commitments and obligations with slim margins. That puts more pressure as we build, meet payroll and see operating costs explode. Suddenly, we grasp for every potential savings available by trimming general costs and seeking alternatives. Surprisingly, the elevator cuts costs as inflation rises, but only if you choose the right alternative.
The right alternative is a commercial quality elevator that has a long-term history of success and that can replace the need for a construction elevator on the jobsite. By consolidating the tasks of a permanent elevator and a construction hoist, costs can be significantly reduced. But, only an elevator fully installed at the beginning of the project and ready for start up early on can meet the need.
This month’s project spotlight is really several projects, but two in particular that we just finished installing where the permanent elevator doubled as the construction hoist. Not having to employ a construction elevator can reduce costs immensely. This option is not just a way to save during inflationary times, but just smart business.
In both cases the elevator unit or MEM System was in place early in the project. The system can be engineered to be self-supporting, so it is placed and awaits power, set up and inspection. The set up portion of the project is usually less than a week in total hours. This makes it not only plausible to save significantly, but a certainty of reducing costs.
The Miss ECB project fully demonstrates the time and costs savings. As you can see it operates just like any other construction hoist with a set call box for access. Finish protection is key. Protective panels and wraps are in place during the build. You can also see that it is not a project dependent on any one type of construction method. the MEM System is at home in modular construction to stick built applications.
You can see there are two sections as pictured above. They are stackable units that make up the hoistway. The entire process took less than four hours to set. As a result, the fully installed elevator through the MEM System was ready for start up and inspection once power was supplied.
If you want to find out more about how choosing the right elevator cuts costs click below. You can either get a thumbnail budget number for the MEM System for your next project or, your can schedule a live virtual tour. During the tour we will pull back the curtain, so you can see how we produce the best elevator solution for all mid and low-rise applications.
We say elevator revolution a lot. After all it is in our vision and we truly do think we are leading the charge to completely change the elevator industry:
We believe in challenging the status quo…in revolutionizing the “elevator process”. We don’t just think outside the box…we think BEYOND the box.
Of course that is accomplished by moving the elevator process, design, engineering and installation, to the beginning stages of a project.
But what does that mean in real terms? Below is a project that exemplifies “elevator revolution” and how it is a benefit to you. Give it a read and let us know if you want to be part of the elevator revolution.
In this surprising conversation Clay Hubbell talks about savings from a perspective rarely discuss, the true value of taking the elevator off the critical path. He also says what it was like working with MEM for the first time and why more modular elevators maybe in his future.
But first, a little background. The Olive View/UCLA Medical Center project involves constructing a new Restorative Care Village with a Mental Health Wellness Center, Residential Treatment Program and Recuperative Care Center. It is a huge sprawling complex with six elevators.
The purpose of the facility is a needed one. In other words, addressing the pressing need for increased mental health, medical, and homeless support services in local communities is necessary and crucial. The surroundings of the project are impressive. It is purposely placed in quiet hills with nature paths and stunning landscaping and design. The new Restorative Care Village will provide an unparalleled opportunity for mental health and community renewal.
Abbott Construction took on the SWA Architects plan and all the challenges including using modular construction. In many ways it was a test for the modular concept and in particular the MEM elevator system. Due to the size of the project, timelines were crucial and had to be met. The project superintendent, Clay Hubbell was understandably skeptical. He has worked with just about every elevator company and usually sees delays and excuses.
Could the elevators really be taken off the critical path? And would there be any real savings? As the project wraps up we sat down with Hubbell to find out.
“It is hard to put into words what they have meant for this project. Elevators are a challenge when built onsite, but the modular elevators went in with no problems.”
“This is the best elevator team I have ever worked with and I have worked with them all. For instance, they across the board are all about solutions and getting the project done.”
“I can’t say enough about their knowledge, abilities and service. They even worked on Saturdays when we needed them. Great team!”
“Usually when dealing with elevator companies it is a struggle to get personnel when you need them, but working with MEM was an incredibly pleasant and enjoyable experience.”
When was the last time you heard such high praise for an elevator manufacturer or installer?
“The MEM elevator allowed us to move up the whole process. Everyone can can be pushed forward in sequence. Normally the elevator slows everything down. You have framers, rock and tape crews, floor prep, flooring, painters, electricians, sprinklers. They usually come out and work to the elevator openings on each floor. Then they have to stop.”
“With the fully installed modular elevator, all those crews complete their work in sequence. They make one trip out and no call back because the elevator’s openings came finished with door frames already installed.”
“The results, we estimate that saved us $30,000 to $40,000 per opening.”
“Then you have a similar savings on the exterior. Framers, coping metal, parapet work was all done in sequence with no call backs and up charges. The result is tremendous savings.”
Think about the math for a second. With that savings per opening, plus an additional savings on exterior work, that results in MEM elevators saving over a half-million dollars on this project. Why consider anyone else?
“MEM has an incredibly clean operation. We visited the factory for a tour and it’s impressive. Tom (Shield – President) and his team led us on the tour and then answered all of our questions.”
“The entire process was extremely smooth. The dedicated MEM project manager Tim Dolan even consulted with the inspectors before hand to iron out any issues.”
“Usually when dealing with elevator companies it is a struggle to get personnel when you need them, but working with MEM was an incredibly pleasant and enjoyable experience.”
“The delivery and set up time was just like they said. And above all the timeline was met each and every time.”
“Seeing elevators delivered on a flatbed (see a video of the project) and craned into place on time was incredible.”
We are elevator experts in every sense of the word and provide you with a highly experienced project manager. In other words to keep the experience seamless, on track and on time we provide you the help you need.
“We can’t wait for the next project. The incredible savings and ease to work with are unmatched in the elevator industry.”
At the end of the conversation we discussed other applications beyond modular construction. The modular elevator is flexible enough for interior or exterior placement and therefore, can be used in almost any type of construction project for a high-quality solution you can count on.
And of course the feelings are mutual, the Abbot Construction team proved time and time again they are top notch. And we can’t wait for the next one!
Although it seems like high praise, Clay Hubbell’s experience is the norm for people willing to join the elevator revolution. People are tired of the promises and prodding needed when dealing with the conventional elevator industry. When you couple our easy process, experienced and supportive team and money saving product you get a happy and satisfied client.
In conclusion, you can partner with us too! Just click the button below to take a live, virtual tour of our facility. We will honestly answer any questions you may have. You can also give us a few details of a potential project and we can supply you with a Fast Track quote in 24 hours. MEM – Quality Elevators taking you to a higher level.