A mezzanine floor is a level that is erected between two main floors or between a building’s floor and ceiling. Rather of covering the whole floor space, they are meant to cover a small portion of a structure. Mezzanines are utilized to make the most of wasted vertical space by giving more space above and below, and they may be created without disrupting existing buildings. Due to their high ceilings, industrial settings are among of the most typical sites where mezzanines are erected, and they are usually free-standing, semi-permanent constructions. Perth’s mezzanine floors are frequently custom-made, built from precise plans and fitted to a client’s demands and specifications. Mezzanines are typically made of steel and may be customized to fit their surroundings.
The following are the essential elements of a mezzanine floor:
- Primary beams – These are the primary mezzanine supports that span the columns.
- Purlins or joists – The decking is attached to these spans between the major beams using purlins or joists.
- The load bearing is spread uniformly among the columns that support the mezzanine, and they are intended to support the major beams.
- Decking — The most typical option is 38mm particle board, although alternative options include grating durbar plate concrete composite decking.
The Different Types of Mezzanines
There are several distinct types of mezzanine floors available, each of which is appropriate for a different use.
Particle Board 38mm
Particle board with a high density is a flexible flooring choice for warehouse, storage, office, and retail applications. This sort of mezzanine flooring is a wonderful cost-effective choice that can withstand medium to high point loads.
Forge Welded Grating
Forge-welded grating is a robust and heavy-duty flooring solution made from a fusion of cross rods and bearing bars that is best suited to industrial situations such as warehouse floors, working platforms, and gangways.
Durbar Plating
Durbar plating is constructed of hot-rolled steel and is extremely strong and long-lasting. It’s ideal for warehouse and logistics facilities, as well as stairs, walkways, and safety platforms, thanks to its extended service life and heat resistance up to 500°C.
Decking made of composite materials
Composite concrete decking is the best option for buildings that require high structural performance. It is made of high-grade galvanized steel and particleboard and can withstand exceptionally large loads, making it ideal for commercial, automation, and industrial environments.
Ancillaries for the Mezzanine Floor
Handrails
This protects the mezzanine’s exposed edges. Edge protection for industrial buildings comprises both the handrail and the toe plate. A glass balustrade system is the most popular design for public-facing areas.
Staircases
Staircases for industrial and public usage give access to the mezzanine floor and are available in a range of styles. The amount of people, travel lengths, and fire protection are all factors considered by the UK Structure Regulations when determining which style of staircase a building requires.
Gates for Pallets
Pallet gates are used in many industrial settings to help in loading and unloading items onto the mezzanine floor. Pallet gates are meant to keep people safe at exposed opening points near the floor’s edge.
Protection Against Fire
The required fire protection will be added to the mezzanine design in accordance with UK Building Regulations. In general, fire protection is necessary if the mezzanine is used for purposes other than storage, such as offices or public usage.
Mezzanine floors, when can it be used?
Industrial Locations
Huge building structures are common in industrial buildings such as warehouses, distribution centers, and factories, allowing for maximum freedom in the installation of large and complicated designs. A multi-tier mezzanine is used by a variety of organizations, with the first level being used for storage or office space and the second level being used for production.
Premises that are visible to the general public
In public-facing locations such as retail establishments, mezzanine levels are a common feature. This is owing to their capacity to enhance sales per square foot while also providing storage at the shop’s back end. Because the mezzanine is frequently constructed with the current shop layout in mind, retail businesses have more rigorous rules. Furthermore, the floor must be fire-rated, and the staircase and handrail must be appropriate for public usage.