Updated 29/08/2023
Adding a mezzanine floor is a major undertaking that adds more space and functionality to any building. Installing a mezzanine floor offers space to expand and makes it possible for a business to remain in the same building rather than moving to new business premises. Reputable mezzanine flooring specialists help you figure out how the project will look. And their design and engineering teams will offer the expertise to create an amazing mezzanine for your business. However, before starting the project, it’s essential to consider what you need from your mezzanine. Here are some questions to consider when formulating your mezzanine project :
- What activities will take place on the mezzanine?
- Who will use the space? How many people will this be?
- Will you need flat stairs or a lift (or both)?
- Will the mezzanine need to have the capacity to hold heavy machinery?
- Will you need walkways for the mezzanine level?
- What are the legal, health, and safe requirements for the mezzanine floor?
We’ll take a closer look at these questions in the following sections.
What Purpose Will the Mezzanine Fill?
As you discuss the plans for the mezzanine, it’s important to determine how the mezzanine space will be used. Here, it’s essential to consider who will use the space, what the space requires, and more. For instance, the floor will need to have the capacity to hold people, goods, and equipment such as conveyor belts, forklifts, and more. These may determine where the support columns for the mezzanine are placed. And if transportation and other devices are needed on the floor, it may be necessary to add deflection and stabilising mechanisms. In addition, your facility will have certain limitations as to weight and size. Does the space have enough room to accommodate and support a mezzanine? If so, what size and shape floor will fit in the space? Don’t get too worried about all the many specifics with this part of the planning. Your mezzanine fabricator and installer team will have the answers to the most important questions.
What Kind of Access is Needed?
The mezzanine floor is a major enterprise, and it will make extensive changes to the layout and access of your building’s access. Here, it’s important to consider the needs of employees, the equipment that will be used, and the items stored in the space. Here are some questions to consider:
- How will people get up and down to the floor safely?
- What processes will need to change?
- What workflows will be affected?
It’s a good idea to speak with your employees and take notes on their ideas and concerns. These can be factored in by the engineers designing and constructing the mezzanine.
Type
With the previous considerations out of the way, you’re now ready to consider the type of mezzanine needed to meet your requirements. Today’s steel fabrication technology is advanced and capable of developing different types of mezzanine flooring. For instance, steel is a common material used in offices and industrial buildings. It offers a secure, solid resistance to foot traffic. It’s also stronger and has high moisture resistance, and is low-maintenance. Another popular mezzanine material is concrete. Concrete is a durable material capable of carrying heavy loads, and it’s a popular option in high-capacity and industrial applications in permanent mezzanines. Like steel mezzanine floors, concrete is also low-maintenance and fire-resistant. The high thermal mass of concrete flooring reduces the energy needed to keep the space comfortable for employees. However, for mezzanines that need to be more elegant, wood is a great material. Wood can add warmth and beauty to a space, and it’s a great option for retail stores and offices. Wooden mezzanines can resist heavy foot traffic because it’s durable and strong. Wood is also easy to install and clean.
Size
The next critical factor to consider is the size of the mezzanine floor. The floor size in the location it will be built needs to consider the following:
- Location of the structure
- Overall space within the room’s size
- The dimensions of any items placed on the flooring
The main idea is to save space, so ensure that your measurements provide you with the additional space needed.
Structural Changes
Constructing the mezzanine in an existing building can add extra weight to the support walls, the existing ceiling, and the roof. So, it’s crucial to ensure that the mezzanine will fall within the legal requirements of the structure. That means it’s necessary to consult the engineers on the project to make sure the design and all calculations fall within the building regulations in that location.
Know Your Purpose
Before the construction of the mezzanine starts, it’s crucial to consider the purpose of the space. For instance, will the space be used as a work area or an extra bedroom? Ensure there’s plenty of space to turn your idea into reality. And remember, the space may also require special lighting and soundproofing. These two elements are essential if the space is used as an office or other space where employees work together.
Ventilation
As the mezzanine is being constructed, the area will be enclosed and may be prone to become too hot as the temperatures outside increase. So, consider the cooling and ventilation systems that may be needed to keep the space comfortable and cool.
Legal & Regulatory Issues
There’s a good chance that your mezzanine floor will need to be assessed and approved by the local authority planning permission. And they will need to ensure the project meets the UK’s Building Regulations 2010. Here are some considerations for planning permission:
- Will the additional work change the façade of the building?
- Will the mezzanine be used as offices?
- Will the mezzanine increase the size of an already space-restricted site?
- Will the new floor be used for retail space? If so, how many square metres will it use?
Fire Protection & Fire Prevention
There are also fire protection and fire prevention considerations that go with a mezzanine. For instance, some mezzanines require fire rating. Here are some indicators that a mezzanine floor may or may not require fire rating:
- The mezzanine will be more than 20m long or 20 m wide
- It will cover an area of more than 400m2
- It will occupy more than 50% of the total available floor space of the building
- The mezzanine will be a workspace frequently used by people
Summing It Up
It’s essential to consider the major points in this article and use these to determine the type of mezzanine flooring that’s needed for your project. Before the project can start, consulting with experts is key to the success of the new space. With plenty of research and planning before the construction of the mezzanine floor, you can guarantee a smooth construction process and excellent results. FAQs How much weight can a mezzanine floor hold? The weight capacity of a mezzanine floor depends on various factors, including the design, materials used, and load distribution. Collaborating with structural engineers can help determine the appropriate weight-bearing capacity for your specific project. Are mezzanine floors cost-effective? Mezzanine floors can offer a cost-effective solution compared to traditional expansion methods. They maximise existing space and often require fewer resources than building entirely new structures. Can a mezzanine floor be installed in an existing building? Yes, mezzanine floors can be installed in existing buildings, provided the building’s structure can support the additional load. Structural assessments are necessary to ensure safety and feasibility. What are the legal requirements for constructing mezzanine floors? Legal requirements vary based on location and building codes. Generally, obtaining permits and adhering to safety standards are mandatory. Consulting local authorities or building experts is advised. How can I enhance the aesthetics of a mezzanine floor? Aesthetics can be enhanced through careful design choices, such as selecting visually appealing materials, incorporating branding elements, and optimising lighting for ambiance. Is soundproofing necessary for mezzanine offices? Soundproofing may be necessary in mezzanine offices, especially in noisy environments. Acoustic considerations can create a more productive and comfortable workspace.
FAQs
How much weight can a mezzanine floor hold?
The weight capacity of a mezzanine floor depends on various factors, including the design, materials used, and load distribution. Collaborating with structural engineers can help determine the appropriate weight-bearing capacity for your specific project.
Are mezzanine floors cost-effective?
Mezzanine floors can offer a cost-effective solution compared to traditional expansion methods. They maximize existing space and often require fewer resources than building entirely new structures.
Can a mezzanine floor be installed in an existing building?
Yes, mezzanine floors can be installed in existing buildings, provided the building’s structure can support the additional load. Structural assessments are necessary to ensure safety and feasibility.
What are the legal requirements for constructing mezzanine floors?
Legal requirements vary based on location and building codes. Generally, obtaining permits and adhering to safety standards are mandatory. Consulting local authorities or building experts is advised.
How can I enhance the aesthetics of a mezzanine floor?
Aesthetics can be enhanced through careful design choices, such as selecting visually appealing materials, incorporating branding elements, and optimizing lighting for ambiance.
Is soundproofing necessary for mezzanine offices?
Soundproofing may be necessary in mezzanine offices, especially in noisy environments. Acoustic considerations can create a more productive and comfortable workspace.