A mezzanine floor offers a smart and versatile solution for maximizing space. From offices to warehouses and retail stores, a mezzanine floor can be integrated to fit various layouts, all with minimal investment.
In this guide, we explore the meaning of a mezzanine floor, its benefits and how to choose the right material for your property.
What Is A Mezzanine Floor?
A mezzanine floor is an intermediate floor between the main floors of a building. It is a low-ceiling floor that is often seen in the form of a balcony. The mezzanine floor doesn’t cover the entire floor space and can be relocated easily.
According to experts, lack of space is one of the key factors that hinder business growth. To help businesses overcome this challenge, constructing a mezzanine floor is the most effective solution.
Now, you might be wondering which type of mezzanine floor is perfect for you?
3 Popular Types Of Mezzanine Floors
1. Rack Supported Mezzanine Floor
A rack supported mezzanine floor construction happens without structural columns. Shelving systems or pallet racks act as the support for it. This kind of mezzanine floor offers dense storage space both on top and underneath. Hence, it enables you to enhance your space effectively.
Rack supported mezzanine floor is ideal for small to medium-sized goods. It is also suitable for the storage of a variety of goods that are accessible manually. Movement of goods in this type generally happens through hydraulic lifting, forklifts, or hydraulic pallet trucks.
2. Steel Structural Mezzanine Floor
As the name suggests, a steel structural mezzanine floor is supported by steel columns and beams, making it independent of shelving systems. Also known as entresol, these are high-level platforms that provide additional storage or workspace. Shelving can be installed underneath to enhance storage capacity but does not form part of the structural support.
The steel structural mezzanine floor makes the maximum use of the height of the premises. It has the capacity to increase the surface area by threefold. Hence, it allows itself to be used as an office, storage space, changing room, etc. This type can bear the weight of heavy cargo, given the construction is done with I-beams for support.
3. Concrete Mezzanine Floor
A concrete mezzanine floor is one of the most durable types. Its design involves a high point load and minimal noise transmission via the floor. A concrete floor consists of corrugated steel VL decking. This provides a pour stop to expand the concrete floor up to 6-inch.
This mezzanine is usually used in high-capacity industrial or military applications. All thanks to its durability, it is popular as a permanent floor system.
Benefits of a Mezzanine Floor
Discover the top reasons why a mezzanine floor is an excellent investment:
- Cost-Effective — Installing a mezzanine floor is generally more affordable than constructing a full extension or relocating to a larger space.
- Increased Efficiency — By adding more usable space, you improve workflow and organization.
- Flexible and Scalable — Mezzanine floors can be easily demounted and reinstalled, offering more flexibility for modification, expansion or relocation.
- Robust Support — Designed to endure, these floors offer the strength and stability required to support substantial weight and heavy machinery.
- Seamless Installation — The installation process is usually quick and smooth, allowing business activities to continue with minimal interruption.
- Increased Property Value — Adding a mezzanine floor can significantly boost your property’s worth by improving its storage efficiency and operational versatility.
Types Of Mezzanine Decking Material
When constructing a mezzanine floor, it is crucial to decide which material will fit your needs. The material you select will significantly impact the structure’s design and application. Here are some of the most common options:
1. Steel Decking
Steel decking is one of the most widely used applications for constructing a mezzanine floor. The material offers resistance to moisture, improved strength and stiffness. Moreover, it provides a secure and solid resistance to pedestrian traffic. It’s designed to withstand weather elements much more than any other material. Therefore, looking at its features, steel decking is superior to ordinary plywood. It is not just stronger but even cheaper than other mezzanine floors.
2. Concrete
Concrete, the universal material for construction, is a good option for mezzanine floor construction. The popular material is one of the most durable and resilient options available.
When we talk about durability, it means that the material is difficult to damage. You don’t have to worry, even if you drop something heavy on a concrete mezzanine. It is able to withstand high pressure from extremely heavy goods such as forklifts and cars.
3. Steel Grating or Bar Grating
Steel grating comes with insurance benefits, making it one of the preferable options for mezzanine. Steel grating is excellent in constructing mezzanine floors as it allows the light, air, heat and other fluids to pass through the deck surface. It is strong and durable while being low on maintenance. In general, there are two types of steel grating which include:
- Press-locked grating – This interlocks perpendicular bars and provides impressive horizontal support. Besides, it has a clean and smooth look.
- Welded bar grating – This features incredible strength and has a long life span.
Steel grating is a popular choice for use in mining, food service industries, and waste management.
4. Diamond Plate
A diamond plate or tread plate is a high-strength metal sheet typically installed over a steel deck. This is done to ensure great durability and heavy load capacity. The pattern on a diamond plate may vary between lozenge shapes, diamond and small individual blocks of raised bars in a checkerboard arrangement.
Diamond plate is ideal for constructing a mezzanine floor when a slip-resistant and corrosion-resistant material is your aim. Other primary features of diamond plate include protection from damage and attractive finishes.
Common Uses of Mezzanine Floor
Businesses often construct mezzanine floors when they require space for storage, packing and sorting. Many also use them for office space. Below are common applications of mezzanine floors:
1. Industrial Mezzanine Floor
When manufacturers require additional space in their production environment, they construct mezzanine floors. These floors provide a versatile solution, allowing the space to be used for a combination of production, storage, and office areas.
2. Warehouse Mezzanine Floor
Warehouse mezzanine floors are primarily used for storing goods, especially in facilities that are running out of space or where traditional racking systems aren’t suitable. A mezzanine provides flexible storage solutions, accommodating shelving, block stacking, and long-span options.
To ensure the safe movement of goods between levels, it’s important to include pallet gates, which also protect workers operating at height. Additionally, installing conveyor systems can be a great option for businesses that frequently need to move box-packed goods or cartons.
3. Office Mezzanine Floor
A mezzanine floor is an ideal solution for businesses needing extra office space, commonly seen in industrial facilities and car showrooms. It can also be used for meeting rooms, modern offices, or boardrooms. The space can be further enhanced with glass partitioning for a more open and contemporary feel.
4. Retail Mezzanine Floor
Modern retail buildings often incorporate mezzanine floors as a key element in their design, offering endless possibilities for customization. Mezzanine floors are especially popular in retail outlets and retail parks. They help expand shelf capacity and ultimately boost profits. Additionally, mezzanine floors can be easily dismantled and relocated according to changing business needs, providing long-term flexibility.
Safety Measures You Need To Consider Before Constructing A Mezzanine Floor
When constructing a mezzanine floor, there are certain things to be considered. It is vital to consider the design of the main floor on which it will be positioned.
The type of mezzanine you choose will have a major impact on the presence of the flooring design. Other important considerations are as follows:
- Consider incorporating barriers, like safety gates, to protect your staff while operating at height.
- Follow any building regulations and restrictions related to fire safety, such as installing a fire-rated mezzanine. Collaborate with professionals that can provide you with proper guidance.
- Install handrails that ensure the safety of all the exposed edges. Handrails not just protect your goods but also prevent the workers and customers from falling.
- While constructing a mezzanine floor, consider incorporating a staircase. This will offer protection while enhancing the aesthetic look of the entire floor.
Partner With Kheera Steel Works for Mezzanine Floors in Dubai
Ready to transform your space with a mezzanine floor? Kheera Steel Works is here to bring your vision to life. We are an ISO-certified company with over 40 years of experience serving over 1000 clients across the UAE, Oman, Qatar, and KSA.
We provide free site visits to assess your needs and recommend the best solution. Afterward, we’ll send you a detailed quote that includes the project scope, materials, costs, and timeline. If you prefer a DIY approach, we can simply deliver the materials and let you handle the installation.
Get in touch with our team and learn how we can help optimize your space.
Very nice sir. Thank you for sharing great and valuable knowledge.