Drainage of elevator shafts

Elevator shaft drainage - why is it so important

Elevator shaft drainage is key to the safe, long-lasting and trouble-free operation of any elevator. The accumulation of water at the bottom of the shaft can lead to corrosion of metal elements, damage to elevator equipment, short circuits, unpleasant odors and the appearance of mold. When groundwater enters or leaks from installations, the lack of a reliable drainage system also poses a risk to the passengers themselves, because it can compromise the electrical and control systems of the elevator.

Our team offers professional design, construction and repair of elevator shaft drainage systems for residential cooperatives, business buildings, commercial sites and industrial enterprises. We take into account all safety requirements, elevator operating standards and the specific characteristics of the building to ensure safe and effective water drainage.

What problems does professional elevator shaft drainage solve?

When the elevator shaft is not properly drained, a number of problems gradually accumulate, which over time become more serious and more expensive to repair. Professional drainage prevents and solves the following situations:

• Flooding from groundwater - with a high groundwater level, the shaft is one of the lowest levels in the building and is often the first to absorb moisture.
• Penetration of water from rain and snowmelt - through joints, cracks, weak waterproofing or poorly executed construction details.
• Leaks from plumbing or sewage - in old or compromised installations that are not detected in time.
• Persistent moisture and mold - creates corrosion on metal parts, damages cables and electrical equipment, worsens the air in the building.
• Risk for elevator electronics and safety - water in the shaft can lead to blockage of the elevator or damage to the control.

Often together with drainage additional vik services are also required, such as pipe repair, leak detection and removal, repair of shafts and sewer diversions, to ensure that the cause of the moisture is completely removed.

Our elevator shaft drainage services

We work on the entire process - from initial inspection and diagnostics to completed working drainage and subsequent prevention. We approach each site individually, because the terrain conditions, building construction and groundwater level are different.

Inspection, diagnostics and design solution

The first step is a detailed inspection of the elevator shaft, the water level, the condition of the concrete and waterproofing, as well as existing installations. We assess:

• the source of the water - underground, rainwater, from pipes or sewage
• the available space for a drainage sump and pumping station
• the possible route for draining the water to a sewage or drainage system
• the need for additional sewerage services and strengthening of the structure

Then we prepare a specific technical solution, tailored to the building load, number of elevators and operating mode.

Construction and repair of drainage and pumping systems

According to the conditions of the site, we can implement several types of elevator shaft drainage systems:

• Drainage hole and drainage well - making a collection container at the bottom of the shaft, where the water will be collected.
• Installation of a drainage pump - an automatic pump with a float that turns on when the water level rises and takes it to a sewer or other point.
• Construction of a pipe route for draining water - with suitable PVC or polypropylene pipes, press fittings and reliable connections.
• Repair and replacement of existing systems - for old, non-functioning or frequently blocking pumps and pipes.

If necessary, we combine drainage with additional plumbing services for the home and the building, such as sewer repair, unblocking a clogged drain, shaft repair, so that water does not return back to the elevator manhole.

Waterproofing and prevention

The drainage system alone is not enough if the manhole structure is leaking. That is why we often recommend:

• Waterproofing the bottom and walls - with suitable materials for constant contact with moisture and groundwater pressure.
• Filling joints and cracks - injection systems or specialized solutions that stop water penetration.
• Regular maintenance - checking the pump, cleaning the drainage well, inspecting the pipes and connections.

Timely maintenance avoids emergency situations in which the elevator blocks due to flooding, and repairs become many times more expensive.

Advantages of professional elevator shaft drainage

Investing in quality elevator shaft drainage pays off quickly because:

• significantly extends the life of the elevator equipment
• reduces the risk of accidents and unplanned elevator shutdowns
• protects electrical panels and control systems from moisture
• eliminates unpleasant odors and mold on lower floors
• increases the overall safety and comfort of residents and visitors

Whether it is a new building or an old apartment building in which the elevator shaft has been flooded for years, we can offer a working and long-term solution, combined if necessary with other installation and repair activities and sewage services.

If you have problems with water in the elevator shaft, constant moisture or visible traces of leaks, do not delay. The sooner measures are taken, the lower the risk of serious damage and the lower the costs. Contact us for an inspection and an individual proposal for draining the elevator shaft in your building.