Attic Lift (Mechanism to Lift Things into an Attic)

Frankly, we didn't know what to entitle this post to accurately describe the information we're seeking. We want to install a mechanism to lift things into an attic. Here are two products we've found in internet searches:

(1) http://bpghome.com/ (previously saw this on the Garage Journal forum and now can't find the post)

(2) http://www.theatticlift.com/index.htm

We would like the mechanism to have a minimum lifting capacity of 100 pounds and we're not interested in the type which moves up and down a stairway such as this one: http://www.spaceliftproducts.com/products/spacelift6000.php

We want the lift to be stored when not in use such that the bottom of it is flush with the ceiling and is "finished" (nice looking).

We would love to know of other products which are available and especially would appreciate receiving comments regarding actual experience with these mechanisms.

Best regards,
Ed and Sandra

I guess this is a buy or build decision.
I haven't used either of what you showed because I have a Harbor Fright elect winch that I got for less than $50.00 that I use to get stuff up to a loft. I never made a platform for it, just used straps.
Is all your stuff boxed? If so the platform with a floor would make sense. But if it bikes, skis, and such maybe you don't need the platform.

I think I'd build my own. Those kits dont look cheap. depending on your fab capabilities though.

The atticlift.com one looks a lot more sturdy. The picture storing the riding lawn more in the ceiling is pretty cool!

Check out this guys solution for storing a trailer....http://home.comcast.net/~panofish/WEBLOG/2003-06-03_Trailer_Lift/

This could easily be adapted for what you want. I used a hand crank wench from HF for my attic storage. Works well, but slow. If I were to do it over, I would try to adapt the solution in the link. Good luck and let us see the results.

Very cool

I originally bought the lift to store my trailer. I have a small trailer I built that I use to take stuff for track days. I have since decided to store the trailer in our tractor barn as some room opened up there so am using the hoists as intended. They come with all parts, bolts, etc. The final size is a 4'x4' square so make sure you have an area that size to use it (mine was a tight fit between the garage door tracks but clears it by about 2" on either side!
There is a good video on the install at Racor.com, go to the pro section to view the video.
Annette

Here's the link, click on the "Video Demonstration" in the right corner.

http://racorinc.com/products.fx?id=150

Annette

Chandelier Lift

Yes, we like nice, well finished garages, but we're not recommending chandeliers for them

Since there are a couple of threads in progress about ceiling / attic lifts for garages and people, including us, are thinking about them, we thought we would share the link to a product for raising and lowering chandeliers. The information on the site, especially about the dead-man and pre-set lift position power switch mechanisms, might be useful and stimulate some thoughts by the DIY's (Do-It-Yourselfers) out there who are contemplating a ceiling or attic lift. Here's the link:

http://www.aladdinlightlift.com/

We have two of these in our house - one in a two story greatroom and the other in a two story foyer. They're quite powerful and work very well. You can get a glimpse of one of the chandeliers, which is very heavy in this picture: http://home.carolina.rr.com/esgeneral/GreatRoom12a.jpg

Best regards,
Ed and Sandra