The trend of lifting offices, sheds and pods over houses in residential areas is on the rise. This modern solution allows homeowners to maximise their living space without the need for extensive ground-level construction. Several factors contribute to this growing popularity.
Firstly, the increase in remote work since the COVID-19 pandemic has led many to seek dedicated home office spaces. Lifting offices above existing structures enables the creation of quiet, efficient work environments without sacrificing current living areas.
Additionally, rising property prices make this kind of expansion an economical alternative for those who find it difficult to move to larger properties. Utilising garden space enhances living conditions and adds value to properties without the financial burden of relocating.
This method also minimises disruption to daily life and maintains the aesthetics and functionality of the home, making this innovative solution both practical and appealing.
The Logistics of Lifting in Residential Areas
Adding a shed, office or pod into a back garden frequently requires a crane lift. These operations can vary in complexity depending on the size and weight of the structure and the distance and height of the lift: A lift over a garden fence is far less complicated than a lift over a house and into a back garden. Executing such a lift requires meticulous planning and coordination. At Emerson Cranes, we specialise in this field, leveraging our extensive fleet and expertise to ensure safe and efficient operations.
The key aspects to the success of such a lift include:
Initial Planning: Comprehensive site assessments must be carried out to evaluate space constraints and structural considerations. Collaborating with local authorities to secure necessary permits and adhere to regulations is a critical part of our process.
Choosing the Right Crane: The weight of the load, lifting height and lifting radius are just a few of the constraints that must be taken into consideration when selecting the correct crane for a lift. Emerson’s fleet includes a diverse range of state-of-the-art Liebherr mobile cranes, each suited for varying circumstances:
- Liebherr LTM 1040 2.1: This two-axle, 40-ton all-terrain crane is perfect for lighter and more straightforward lifts. It offers outstanding load-carrying performance with a long, continuously variable 4-section telescopic boom, ideal for confined building sites.
- Liebherr LTM 1060 3.1: With a 60-ton lift capacity and a maximum boom length of 48 metres, this crane is highly effective for middleweight projects, offering excellent manoeuvrability and compactness for smaller sites.
- Liebherr LTM 1090 4.2: Known for its versatility, this 90-ton mobile crane combines outstanding mobility and power, making it a go-to choice for many construction projects. Its efficient engine and economical operation make it ideal for various lifting scenarios.
- Liebherr LTM 1110 5.1 & 5.2: With a maximum lifting height of up to 96 metres, these 110-ton cranes are perfect for achieving high lifts, equipped with VarioBase® Plus technology for enhanced stability and safety.
- Liebherr LTM 1130 5.1: This 130-ton crane is well-suited for heavier lifts, maintaining manoeuvrability with a 60-metre max telescopic boom, making it an impressive option for larger construction jobs.
- Liebherr LTM 1200 5.1: Offering a 200-ton lift capacity, this heavy-duty crane handles significant lifting requirements, making light work of even the largest lifts on all terrains.
- Liebherr LTM 1230 5.1: With a 230-ton capacity and 75-metre max telescopic boom, this crane is ideal for substantial projects, maintaining high manoeuvrability and performance.
- Liebherr LTM 1300 6.2: This 300-ton crane features a 78-metre main boom and is equipped with ECO mode for fuel-saving, offering strong support base functionality, making it a versatile choice for industrial needs.
- Liebherr LTM 1450 8.1: As the largest in our fleet, this 450-ton crane combines exceptional mobility with a fully extended 85-metre telescopic boom, ideal for the most complex residential lifts.
Our expertise ensures that each crane is matched perfectly to the specific requirements of the project, optimising performance and safety.
Requirements for a Successful Lift
Ensuring a successful lift involves several key components:
- Site Assessment: Our detailed evaluations identify the optimal positioning for cranes and ensure the surrounding environment is safe for operations.
- Choosing the Right Crane: We select cranes based on the specifics of the lift, such as weight and radius.
- Professional Expertise: Our skilled operators and engineers bring years of experience, prioritising safety and efficiency in every project.
Safety Considerations
Safety is at the heart of everything we do at Emerson Cranes. Our commitment to rigorous safety protocols and continuous training ensures that every lift meets the highest standards. We pay special attention to minimising noise and disruption in residential neighbourhoods, maintaining community goodwill.
Case Study: Notable Lift for BBC’s DIY SOS
In April, we undertook a notable project for the BBC’s DIY SOS in South East London. The task involved lifting an outdoor structure over a house into a back garden during a home makeover. Utilising the Liebherr LTM 1450 8.1, we executed the lift with precision, employing a 104-tonne counterweight. The crane boats Liebherr’s registered VarioBase® outrigger system, which allows each crane outrigger to be extended to any length, enhancing safety and lifting capacity by providing flexible and precise stability on this high-outreach lift. In this case the crane’s boom operated at a minimum radius of 28 metres, extending to 50 metres for the lift, demonstrating our expertise in handling complex residential lifts.
Speak to Emerson for Your Next Lifting Project
As residential expansion needs continue to evolve, lifting solutions like those we provide at Emerson Cranes are set to become increasingly popular. With a focus on innovation and safety, we are at the forefront of transforming how additional spaces are integrated into existing homes.
For more information on how we can assist with your project or to inquire about our crane hire services, contact our team today. Call us on 020 8548 3900 to discuss your next lifting project.
