Complete guide to car turntables: How they work, benefits, and installation
As space optimisation and daily efficiency become increasingly important, car turntables are emerging as an innovative solution to meet manoeuvring needs in tight spaces. This guide will walk you through how car turntables work, their advantages, and what to consider for installation.
1 – How car turntables work
Car turntables are motorised platforms that allow a vehicle to rotate 360 degrees on the spot, avoiding the need for complex reversing and turning manoeuvres in limited spaces. Once the vehicle is positioned on the platform, the user activates the rotation with a remote control or control panel. Powered by a built-in motor, the turntable provides smooth and precise rotation.
2 – Benefits of car turntables
Installing a turntable comes with numerous advantages, whether for residential or commercial use. Here are the key benefits :
Space optimisation
Turntables save valuable square metres, as they eliminate the need for wide driveways or dedicated reversing bays to turn around. This optimisation is particularly advantageous in urban in-fill areas where space is limited. Instead of needing wider spaces for reversing, the driver can simply rotate their vehicle to leave in the desired direction.
Increased safety
In areas like densely populated residential dwellings or private car parks, turntables help reduce the risk of accidents. By minimising reversing in driveways and onto roads, turntables decrease the chance of collisions with obstacles such as walls, vehicles or accidents with pets or children.
Sustainable and eco-friendly solution
Reducing the need for complex manoeuvres also means less fuel consumption and lower CO2 emissions, as the engine runs for less time during parking. This is a valuable environmental advantage, especially in urban areas and undercroft garages where air pollution is a concern.
Property value increase
For property owners and investors, adding a turntable can enhance a property’s resale value. An optimised, innovative parking solution is attractive to buyers, especially in major cities.
The cost of a turntable from West Coast Turntables offsets the cost of the land required for reversing, and is often cheaper, depending on the suburb.
3 – Installing a car turntable: what you need to know
Installing a turntable requires careful planning and expertise. Here are some key considerations :
Surface types and preparation
Turntables can be installed on almost any surface, whether concrete, soil, flat, or sloped. Before installation, the ground and foundation needs to be carefully prepared with consideration to soil types and underground services.
Design and aesthetic integration
Turntables can be designed to blend seamlessly with an outdoor space’s aesthetic. Certain models offer customisable finishes that mimic natural materials or non-slip coatings, based on the owner’s design preferences. This can turn a simple car park into an elegant, functional space.
Cost and payback
Installing a turntable is an upfront investment that varies based on the model, size, and chosen options (such as finishes, lighting, etc.). However, the cost of a turntable from West Coast Turntables offsets the cost of the land required for reversing and, depending on the suburb, is often cheaper than the land. The payback is then immediate, but there are potential ongoing savings on vehicle wear and tear, repair costs, and the gains in safety and property value offset the initial cost even further in the long run.
4 – Overview of different models
There are many types of turntables, each catering to specific needs:
- Turntables for light vehicles : Ideal for residential properties, they are designed for standard cars. These can be provided with a masonary finish or metal or a timber top.
- Double Car Turntables: Ideal for residential properties, they are designed for two standard cars, oversized cars or light trucks. These can be provided with a masonary finish or metal or a timber top.
- Commerical Truck Turntables: These models are suited for trucks, heavy vehicles, and industrial areas. They are often used for delivery and waste trucks and are generally larger and come with a more powerful motor.
Conclusion: car turntables, a modern mobility solution
Car turntables offer undeniable advantages in optimising parking space and reducing risk. For homeowners, architects, and urban planners, they represent an innovative solution that combines practicality and aesthetics while being eco-friendly. Whether it’s for a narrow garage, a challenging driveway, or optimising private parking spaces, turntables are a worthwhile consideration for better space management and ease of use.
