Buying a Hillside Tram
A hillside tram, also known as an inclined elevator, a hillside lift system, or a funicular, is a great investment to help with access to your hillside home. Although most are used for accessing a dock, we have many customers who rely on their tram to access their home from a parking area or a pool from the home.
We hear a lot of questions when talking to prospective tram owners. We encourage questions, so you know what you’re buying and how the process works. We don’t hide anything. An informed client is a happy client.
How does the sales process work?
When you contact us, we ask some basic questions: where the system will be located, the approximate length, and estimated hill angle. Any pictures you have will help in this process. From this information we can provide you with a budgetary estimate. This is our first estimate, based on your information. Once you approve the budgetary estimate, we will perform a site visit. We meet you at your home, discuss your needs, locate the best installation path, and take detailed measurements. From this information we will provide a detailed final estimate. When you approve this estimate, we move forward with a contract.
How long does manufacturing take?
Manufacturing generally takes four to six weeks for a standard system. This can increase with any customization or when our backlog grows. We will provide an approximate completion date when the contract is finalized.
How about installation time?
We try to schedule installation as close to the manufacturing completion date as possible. Installation is weather-dependent. We don’t install in northern climates during winter. Spring installations rely on Mother Nature to clear the snow. We still propose a scheduling window during the contract process, but will update you if the schedule changes. Many installations are completed within four or five days, but can be longer depending on the complexity of your project. This will be discussed during the final estimate and contract process. Also, most systems are modular and don’t require any heavy equipment for installation. This prevents damage to your lawn or landscaping.
What questions should I ask when getting an estimate?
A tram is an investment in your home and overall enjoyment of every level of your property. You should do your research and ask any questions you have along the way. Here are some we hear and our answers. If you’re comparing tram companies, you should ask these of each company:
How long have you been in business?
Marine Innovations has been in business since 1991. We’re the longest-running tram manufacturer in the United States.
How many systems have you manufactured?
We’ve manufactured over 1,000 systems. Most of our early systems are still running, providing access to their homeowners. While our competitors’ systems get replaced after five or ten years, ours run for decades.
Can I see and ride a system or talk to a current owner?
Yes, we have many customers who are willing to discuss their Marine Innovations tram or, if you’re in the same area, take you for a ride.
What do you offer for service and maintenance?
Marine Innovations offers annual maintenance inspections and service either directly or through your authorized dealer. Maintenance inspections are crucial to the long-term performance and safety of your tram. With proper maintenance, your Marine Innovations tram will outlast your neighbor’s other brand tram, probably by decades.
Do you have your own engineering staff?
Many companies don’t have design and engineering staff. They either wing it or “borrow” ideas from other companies. Some are using designs that have moved through several failed companies. Several have (poorly) copied our designs. People say that imitation is the most sincere form of flattery!!
What is your warranty?
We offer an excellent warranty: fifteen years on structural components, three years on non-structural, one year on electrical parts & components and drive & brake cables. Don’t be fooled by other tram company claims. When they have been in business only five years, how can they offer a warranty longer than their track record?
Any other questions?
Where is the best location on my property? We can definitely help with finding the best location for your tram. We’ve been doing this for decades and will use that expertise to find the best route.
What kind of power does the tram need? Generally, 220-volt, 50-amp power is sufficient, but we will provide you with the power requirements during the quoting and contracting process.
What if I need to get ahold of someone at Marine Innovations? We have a fully staffed office open from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm Central Time, Monday through Friday. We don’t have an automated switchboard; a real person will answer the phone. Outside of business hours, our answering service will provide a phone number for emergencies.
What else do I need to know?
This is a tricky question. You should know or research local permitting requirements. Different states and counties may have specific requirements. Your city or county will have personnel who can help you navigate these. We can help if we’ve worked in your area previously. If you need an elevator permit, we can help directly or enlist a local partner with the process.
Lastly, you need to know that investing in a tram will provide you with years of enjoyment. No more stairs, no lugging gas and gear to the boat, no dragging that cooler back up the steps, no worrying about a sore knee or back slowing you down, and no more expensive step repair bill every five years. Just comfort, relaxation, and fun.
Ready to Explore the Possibilities?
Explore our website to discover how a Marine Innovations hillside tram can transform your life. Check out videos on our YouTube channel. Follow us on Facebook or Instagram.