Setting the Record Straight: What Architectural Film Can and Cannot Do in Your Elevator

Yev P.
November 26, 2025
Setting the Record Straight: What Architectural Film Can and Cannot Do in Your Elevator
Setting the Record Straight: What Architectural Film Can and Cannot Do in Your Elevator

Architectural film elevator resurfacing is a transformative solution, offering stunning looks and massive savings. However, managing expectations upfront ensures client satisfaction and protects your investment.

To provide total clarity, here is a detailed breakdown of the true capabilities and limitations of the premium film products utilized by Elevator Refresh.

Architectural Film: Engineered for Aesthetics and Everyday Use

Architectural Film: Engineered for Aesthetics and Everyday Use

Our materials are high-quality, durable vinyl films specifically designed for architectural applications. They offer high resistance to moisture, fire, and general wear under typical conditions in commercial and residential settings.

The primary goal of the film is aesthetic enhancement. It allows you to achieve the look of expensive materials (like stone or metal) without the cost, weight, or installation hassle.

The Limits: What the Film is NOT Intended For

While robust, architectural film has limitations. Understanding these is crucial for longevity:

  • Heavy Impact: The film is not intended to withstand heavy impact from equipment being thrown or constantly slammed against the walls.
  • Sharp Objects: It offers low resistance to sharp objects, knives, tools, or deliberate vandalism that can easily cut through the vinyl layer. 
  • Ongoing Abuse: It cannot endure ongoing, repetitive abuse from poorly managed service carts, construction activity, or heavy freight scraping the surfaces.

If your elevator frequently transports heavy equipment or construction debris, protective measures are highly recommended.

Essential Steps for Maintaining Finish and Longevity

Essential Steps for Maintaining Finish and Longevity

The proper lifecycle of the film depends on these three pillars of care:

  1. Proper Care & Cleaning: Only use soft cloths and mild, non-abrasive cleaning agents. Avoid industrial solvents or harsh chemicals that can break down the vinyl or adhesive.
  2. Ongoing Protection: In high-traffic or service environments, the addition of skirting, kick-plates, or protective overlays is the best insurance policy against misuse.
  3. Vigilance Against Other Trades: Be hyper-aware when construction or moving companies are using the refreshed cab. Always use protective blankets or temporary wall covers.

Our Official Disclaimer (Transparency is our Policy)

Elevator Refresh is committed to delivering a flawless installation using premium film. However, we must be transparent about post-installation liability:

Elevator Refresh utilizes premium architectural film designed for aesthetic enhancement and everyday use. While durable under normal conditions, the film is not intended to withstand heavy impact, sharp objects, or ongoing abuse from carts, equipment, or construction activity. Elevator Refresh is not responsible for damage caused by misuse, negligence, or other trades after installation.

By acknowledging these limits and implementing smart protection strategies, you ensure your aesthetic upgrade is a success for years to come.

Read The Full Scope of an Elevator Interior Renovation blog.