Classic car enthusiast chooses Straightset for bespoke lift installation

Straightset has completed a bespoke project for a Nottinghamshire classic car enthusiast, turning a simple family garage into a high-spec workshop.

The private customer first approached Straightset, for a vehicle lift to go into a new purpose-built workshop being constructed in his back garden. However, when the Straightset team saw the plans, it was apparent there were issues with the architect’s drawings.

Andrew Bates, Managing Director, Straightset, said: “It was clear that the building would not be fit for the customer’s purposes and achieve what he wanted to create. The building was too small and of insufficient height to pick up the type of vehicle the customer was using – in this case a classic Rolls-Royce. We worked with the customer and his architect to redraw the plans to ensure they would do the job and then resubmit for planning consent.”

Initial consultation

The process began with an initial conversation with the customer to determine the type of vehicle lift required. From this, Straightset was able to configure precisely the right equipment for the project which included reworking the designs on the size of the building itself, configuration of the floor to include a recess to suit the vehicle lift and the compressed air system complete with dado line system around the workshop perimeter.

Straightset engineers provided expert advice on the whole workshop space including the correct lighting colours, spec and provision of the resin floor, in order to achieve the best results. Andrew went on to say: “Because Straightset has such a wealth of knowledge of the required garage environment, the team was able to bring a lot to the table for this kind of bespoke project. It sets us apart from competitors who are not always be able to offer the additional level of expert service and aftersales care. At Straightset, the team is concerned with application and working environment of every enquiry to ensure we guide the customer to the correct solution, not just to sell whatever we have in stock.”

Equipment supplied

Straightset worked with the customer to supply a Space SQ350 3.5t four post lift in 240v version with a Majorlift jacking beam, along with high quality workshop cabinets. In this instance the lift was specially ordered to work off domestic 240v power. The customer has been delighted with the result, particularly as Straightset does not charge any additional consultancy fees for its expert advice.

The Space SQ350 was ideal for the client’s needs. It is an entry-level lift manufactured in the EU with all the safety features required for a commercial workshop. Its features include platform levelling and air-powered locking ladders. It has the surety of being produced by one of the world’s largest and trusted lift manufacturer, guaranteeing a long product life and wide aftercare availability not always found with Far East-sourced alternatives.

When preparing the space for the installation, Straightset specified a floor recess of 160mm; this allowed the lift to sit perfectly level with the garage floor. Had this not been done, it would have required an even larger workspace to make room for the run-on ramps. This would then make it almost impossible to move an unpowered vehicle onto the lift when a repair is required.

The resin floor was provided by North Wales-based Conren Resin Floors, specialists in the supply and installation of resin flooring for a variety of projects, which is also the manufacturer of the material used. Straightset has a strong relationship with Conren as the company’s workmanship and attention to detail is exceptional.

Exceeding expectations

Through Straightset’s expert advice and experience, it has been able to complete this bespoke project, transforming a customer’s domestic garage with extremely high-quality equipment.

Andrew concluded by saying: “This was a fantastic example of how we, as a team, go the extra mile for our customers and use our years of experience to fulfil projects that don’t just meet the needs of the client but exceed them. Dealing with a workshop fit-out specialist like Straightset brings a wealth of knowledge beyond the remit of most architects. Years of designing suitable working spaces have given Straightset a unique knowledge and I’m glad we were able to step in to ensure the project went smoothly.”

The customer, David Griffiths, added: “The service from Straightset, from design to installation, was excellent. They were always helpful and approachable. They provided valuable advice throughout, which given their expertise, proved very beneficial in ensuring that maximum benefit was achieved from the investment in the project.”