A hoisting beam is the horizontal beam that projects from the top of the gable, with a pulley or hook to hoist goods upwards. It is characteristic of Dutch canal houses and warehouses, whose narrow and steep stairs were unsuitable for heavy transport.
Why a hoisting beam?
The facades of old town houses often lean slightly forward (raked). This keeps the hoisted goods clear of the wall so they slide up along it to the right hoisting hatch. The hoisting beam made it possible to lift furniture, merchandise and grain to attics and storage lofts.
Components
- Beam — projects through or above the facade
- Hoisting hook or pulley — carrying the rope or chain
- Windlass or hoisting wheel — for pulling force on heavier loads
- Hoisting hatch — the hatch opening in the facade through which the load passes inside
Application
- Canal houses — still used for lifting large furniture inside
- Warehouses — for storing merchandise on the upper floors
- Repurposing — when converted into homes, the hoisting beam is often kept as a decorative feature
For moves in the city centre, the hoisting beam is still used today, often combined with a furniture lift.
Related terms
- Hoisting hatch
- Hoisting wheel
- Raked facade
- Warehouse
- Gable
- Repurposing
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