Escalators are the key to moving people safely and quickly in busy places like malls, subway stations, and airports. Escalator installation isn’t your average DIY project. It often takes trained and experienced technicians to install escalators properly. Use this escalator installation guide to help you understand each step of the job.
Things to Think About Before Installing a New Escalator
While escalators have become common in many public and commercial buildings, most owners or managers don’t have the knowledge to choose, size, and install one by themselves.
That’s why we’re here. Below is a simple summary of the main things to think about when planning a new escalator installation:
Talk with an Escalator Expert
Doing your own research can help, but we recommend asking a trusted escalator professional for advice. An experienced technician can look at your building, the number of people expected, your design choices, and your budget. They can explain which type of escalator works best in places like yours and share examples from other projects.
Companies like BDFUJI are experts in matching the right equipment to your needs and making sure it is delivered and installed correctly for safe and smooth operation.
Get Recommendations and a Cost Estimate
After the installer reviews your site, you’ll get suggestions and a cost estimate. This is a good time to ask questions about energy use, safety features, noise, and design. Always ask for a detailed quote that shows each cost. A BDFUJI expert can offer many escalator models for different types of buildings.
How Long Does It Take?
The time needed depends on the type of escalator and your building. Most typical installations can be done in several days by trained workers. If the site is simple, the work may be faster. More complex projects, like large public spaces, can take longer.
Can I Install an Escalator Myself?
You can research and buy escalator equipment, but installing it is very different. Unless you are a licensed technician with special training, you should not try to install an escalator yourself. Correct sizing, alignment, and safety checks are very important. A poorly installed escalator can be unsafe, cost more money, and cancel your warranty.
Professional Escalator Installation
Professional installation is the safest way to make sure your escalator works well for many years. Licensed technicians have the tools, training, and experience to do the job according to local rules and international safety standards.
What Are the Steps in Installing an Escalator?
The process of installing an escalator is as follows：
Prepare drawings → Install the main escalator body → Prepare the site → Measure and mark → Fix the steel frame → Install metal panels → Finish edges → Run test and self‑check
1. Prepare Drawings
The building team, escalator maker, and client talk together and make the final plan drawings.
2. Install the Main Escalator Body
The company that makes the escalator builds the main escalator body, installs it, and tests it. Only when the main body passes the test can the next steps begin.
3. Prepare the Site
Check that pipes, lights, and fire sprinklers under the escalator are installed and tested. Make sure the site is ready. Gather tools, materials, and set up scaffolding. Give workers clear instructions.
4. Measure and Mark
Follow the design to measure and mark the sides and bottom of the escalator. This helps decide the size and number of metal panels.
5. Fix the Steel Frame
Add a base board and weld the steel frame to the escalator body. Treat it to prevent rust. Make sure the frame is straight, strong, and in the right place.
6. Install the Metal Panels
Add LED lights at the bottom, then install the metal panels. Start with one side, then the other, then the curved bottom panels, and finally the bottom plates. The panels are fixed with special holes or clips.
7. Finish the Edges
Make sure light strips and panels connect neatly. Handle edges, tops, and different materials carefully. This affects both looks and use.
8. Test and Self‑Check
Run the escalator and test it again. Check all sizes and details to make sure they meet the plan and safety rules.
What Should We Pay Attention to When Installing an Escalator?
Check the Building Size Many Times
Measure the height, length, support beams, and bottom pit. The top and bottom support beams must stay at a right angle to the escalator’s center line.
Metal Panels Must Meet Design Needs
The type, color, pattern, and quality of panels must match the plan. They need to have product certificates. The frame must also be the right shape and size, and panels must be fixed firmly.
Check While Installing Panels
Use a line to check often so mistakes can be corrected. Bolts must be in the right place to keep the outside looking neat.
Cut Panels Correctly
The size must be exact, and edges smooth. Panels should overlap in the right way, not just touch edge-to-edge. The overlap length must match the plan, and there should be no open gaps.
Protect Panels After Installing
Cover easy-to-dirty parts with plastic film. Add safety boards or railings to protect parts that may get scratched or hit.
Check the Floor and Platform After Work
If there is a height difference or a bad joint between the floor and the escalator cover, fix it right away.
Protect Other Finished Work
Before starting, cover or pad nearby areas. Do not break water pipes, wires, or built-in parts during the work.
Safety of Outer Panels
The panels must be fireproof, look good, and be strong. If 250N of force (about the weight of a person leaning) is pressed on 25 cm², the panels should not break or open a gap.
What is the Average Escalator Installation Cost?
The average cost for installing an escalator can vary quite a bit. The type of escalator, the size and condition of the site, and how complex the project is will all influence the cost. The price of the escalator itself can change depending on brand, size, and special features. Labor and site preparation also play a role.
Here are some average installation costs for escalators:
Average Installed Cost for a Escalator
Additional labor or building work may increase these costs, especially if steel supports or pit work are required.
| Average Installed Cost | Low End Cost | High End Cost |
|---|---|---|
| $180,000 | $100,000 | $300,000 |
Cost of Installing Escalators in Different Building Types
| Building Type | Typical Height / Capacity | Average Price Range |
| Small shopping mall | 2–3 floors, medium traffic | $120,000 – $180,000 |
| Office building | 2–4 floors, light traffic | $100,000 – $150,000 |
| Large transit hub | 3–6 floors, heavy traffic | $200,000 – $300,000 |
Another factor to think about is efficiency. Higher efficiency models may cost more at first but can provide savings in operating costs over time. If your building only needs to serve one level or a small area, a shorter escalator or moving walkway may be a more affordable option.ion.
Getting an Escalator Installation Estimate
As you consider your options for a new escalator installation, think about which company you want to work with. BDFUJI has years of experience designing and building escalators for different types of spaces. The company continues to develop new technologies that improve safety, performance, and efficiency.
To learn more about escalator installation or our range of escalator products, be sure to connect with BDFUJI. After a site review, you will receive professional recommendations and a detailed cost estimate tailored to your building and needs.
