Mezzanines
Mezzanine Floors
Mezzanine floors are an ideal solution if you want to increase the capacity of a warehouse or retail unit without the cost and inconvenience of relocation. A mezzanine floor allows you to optimise your existing space, in certain cases it can at least double (or greater) available floor space, without the need to extend your building or relocate your business to a larger facility.
For over 30 years, WSL has been at the forefront of Mezzanine Floor Design, Manufacture & Installation and have successfully implemented mezzanine floors in buildings across a number of sectors. All under one roof, our Design Technicians, Steel Fabricators and Project Managers work closely on each project however large, small or complex, achieving the best results every time, and even when time-sensitivity is a crucial factor the WSL team can use the advantage of in-house manufacturing to deliver your mezzanine solution on time.
What Is The Purpose Of a Mezzanine Floor?
Is a Mezzanine Floor sustainable?
When we say the mezzanine is a “semi-permanent” structure, you many question durability and longevity however there is no need for concern. Mezzanine floors are specifically designed to suit the intended space and use and as one of the UK’s leading mezzanine floor designers and manufacturers we can assure you of endurance and stability. Whether you require additional office space or storage areas, with the right design you can rely on your mezzanine floor to provide a long term sustainable solution. With a long lasting lifespan, the sustained mezzanine floor is made up of structural steel parts with weight load bearing requirements designed in to support any intended use. WSL has always been CE Marking BS EN 1090 accredited and although this has now changed to the UKCA accreditation for UK manufacturers it still upholds the same level of stringency in safety regulations. This alongside our full SEMA membership (Storage Equipment Manufacturers Association) reflects our ability to ensure continual safety and quality.
Mezzanine Floor Components
Generally, a mezzanine floor structure is constructed of four main components:
- Columns – reaching from the floor to the base of the mezzanine. The number and type of the columns will have been stipulated in the planning and design stages.
- Primary steels or beams – the primary beams are usually made from UB Sections on a standard warehouse floor, though this will depend on the weight bearing requirements of the floor.
- Secondary steels or purlins – purlins are fixed to the primary steels, bearing the weight of the mezzanine flooring. The number and type of purlins will again depend on the decisions made in the planning stage, including the amount of deflection expected for the floor.
- Decking – Decking is placed on top of the purlins. 38mm P6 chipboard is standard flooring, though there are a wide variety of different options including moisture resistant.
Mezzanine Floor Access Features
Alongside the mezzanine floor, we work closely with you to understand the range of ancillaries required to support the efficient & safe use of your mezzanine floor.
There are numerous ways to safely transport goods and people too and from a mezzanine floor level and the most suitable methods will largely depend on the functions carried out on the mezzanine platform. Access features include:
Staircases – However the mezzanine level is used, a staircase is the easiest and simplest form of human access. Providing they meet UK standards, staircases vary in terms of colour, material and shape and can be designed to add style as well as practicality to your mezzanine floor. This presents an opportunity for those using a mezzanine for retail or office purposes to create an attractive mezzanine staircase feature
Lifts – There are two types of lifts, a goods lift and a passenger lift. In addition to stairway access, the passenger lift is ideal if disabled access is a priority or if your just looking for extra convenience. The goods lift is purposely designed to take the weight of heavy goods so they can be transported safety to and from the mezzanine levels. The goods are placed in the lift on one level then collected on arrival at the level intended which works even better with an operator at each level working together.
Pallet gates – Positioned at the edge of the mezzanine level a pallet gate is cleverly designed to accept pallets onto the platform having been placed by the fork lift truck from below. The pallet gate opens to allow the pallet access and closes once placed whilst ensuring edge protection throughout the process.
Chutes – Using gravity a chute transports hand held items from upper to lower levels very quickly and easily making this an ideal solution when looking for speed and efficiency.
Conveyors – These powered belts move continuously transporting goods between the mezzanine levels. The conveyor does all the work once the item has been placed and can be implemented to suit the size and weight of your inventory.
Mezzanine Floor Edge Protection
A mezzanine floor is an upper level platform therefore it’s needless to say that edge protection is an essential part of the design and structure. Fitted to secure all exposed edges along the perimeters of the floor level and staircase, edge protection acts as a barrier to prevent people or items from falling over the edge. Whilst any mezzanine platform will carry the risk of falling, for some environments, certain factors such as vehicle movement or children being present means the risks become much greater. In order to minimise those additional risks it’s important to be guided by UK Building Regulations when choosing the components, configuration and structural strength loadings of your edge protection. Or you can leave this extra consideration with your WSL Design Technician whose daily role in mezzanine floor design mean the standards set out by UK Building Regulations are always instinctively met as a result of proficient knowledge and understanding.
Does a mezzanine floor add value?
Making sense financially for those looking to increase usable space at a relatively low cost, a mezzanine floor enables you to achieve this quickly and effectively whilst adding value. When comparing two empty properties of the same dimensions yet Property A has a mezzanine whilst Property B doesn’t, although both are the same in terms of height space and footprint area property A offers more capacity therefore more value. This contributes towards a positive ROI and enhances the cost benefits as property A can offer more functionality within the same space dimensions.
Is a mezzanine floor rateable?
Generally speaking, rates are measured on how much a property is worth and because the market value of a property increases after a mezzanine floor installation it’s possible for rates to increase too, however the degree of permanence is the deciding factor. Although a mezzanine is seen as a temporary structure its often in the interest of the landlord and subsequent tenants to keep a structure that offers sustainability and long term value, rather than removing it at the end of a leasing contract. It’s probable, for example that an office mezzanine floor would become a permanent feature because it enhances the building’s offerings however its permanence could incur chargeable rates. Guidance on rates can vary from council to council so for clarity on whether a particular mezzanine floor would be rateable, your Chartered Surveyor can advise.
Does a mezzanine count as a storey?
Because a mezzanine floor is built within an existing building it cannot be classed as an extra storey of the property, however the mezzanine floor itself can be multi storey. This is known as a multi tier mezzanine floor and is a perfect way to gain maximum use of tall spaces. The first tier can multiplied by as many times as the buildings height will accommodate, providing a substantial amount of usable floor space in comparison to a single tier mezzanine and all within the same footprint area. The upper levels can be utilised in ways that will best support the business and can even accommodate multiple functions across the levels.
How much does a mezzanine floor cost?
As a bespoke solution a mezzanine floor is priced mainly on its size and weight load bearing. Factors including fire rating, access features and accessories are also included in the cost so it’s difficult to state an accurate price before a site survey is carried out, however as a mezzanine floor manufacturer, WSL can immediately add value and save you money. We manage your project through every stage including design, manufacture and installation so middle man mark up cost is eliminated and those savings are passed directly to you. If it’s a choice between relocating the business, extending the building or installing a mezzanine floor, the latter certainly has the upper hand especially when you consider the added savings WSL can offer.
Will a mezzanine floor be suitable for my particular businesses premises?
The mezzanine floor has many great advantages and because every mezzanine is a bespoke solution, suitability is one of them. Whatever your environment, if your floor space is becoming scarce whilst unused height space is plentiful then a mezzanine floor is certainly an option to be examined. Not only because it’s a cost effective way to create additional workspace, but because a mezzanine floor can support any operation and is a great way to improve your business:
Industrial Premises – An increase in productivity is just one of the multiple ways in which a mezzanine floor can benefit warehouse facilities or manufacturing hubs. This highly economical option allows you to use the raised platform in a way which will be most beneficial to your business. An increase in productivity induced by a mezzanine floor installation will soon see a return on your investment and because a mezzanine floor can provide a future proof solution, further growth can be accommodated quickly and easily. The mezzanine floor can be designed to incorporate storage systems, heavy machinery, production lines, offices, staff facilities or automation with a choice of access staircases, pallet gates, chutes and lifts incorporated as part of the design.
Commercial and Retail Premises – Give your office or retail unit an uplifting boost by transforming the area with a mezzanine floor which not only increases practical floor space, but can bring character to the premises. Beyond the basic steel structure, a retail or office mezzanine floor can be designed and accessorised to match your business brand and colours as well as creating a light, airy and comfortable workplace or environment for visitors. From staircase style to floor type and everything in between you can choose many aspects of your mezzanine floor to match your desired look and interior preferences. For offices, studios, restaurants, bars, gyms, theatres and retailers, this is an inexpensive solution which allows the business to operate from the same premises without the need to extend the building.
Does a mezzanine floor require fire-rating?
In many cases yes, however there are some circumstances that exempt this requirement such as the mezzanine of less than 10m2 which is used for storage purposes only. A larger storage only mezzanine up to 20m2 will require smoke detectors and any mezzanine accessed by people regularly will require fire rating. This includes office, retail, warehouse, manufacturing and hospitality settings. Mezzanine fire rating barricades the structure itself protecting it from heat, smoke and flames for an extended period of time. This allows a time-delayed effect giving you a longer period of time to evacuate and have the fire distinguished before the flames reach the structure underneath. Fire rating entails:
Are Mezzanine Floor Inspections Required?
Under the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (Puwer 1998) the commercial mezzanine floor which is categorized as workplace equipment, must be appropriately constructed to meet its purpose with minimal risk to the health and safety of those expected to use it. Despite its robust steel framework, a mezzanine floor is still structurally vulnerable to knocks, bumps and general wear and tear which can cause progressive weakening. It could be that the handrail on the staircase has become loose, a fork lift truck collision has weakened the structure or the decking is becoming worn, affecting the surface. A professional, annual mezzanine floor inspection can help ensure the continual integrity of the structure with the early detection of weaknesses and risks. This enables appropriate action to be taken earlier rather than later, which can help to prevent a catastrophic event making your annual mezzanine floor inspections an effective way to ensuring your compliance with PUWER 1998.
At WSL we offer professional mezzanine floor inspections for all types of mezzanine floor structures for which SEMA codes are followed. We can inspect your mezzanine floor structure after which you will receive a detailed report of any findings and paperwork to document that the inspection has taken place. For a quotation and availability, contact our inspections coordinator on 0113 2045350.
Underside – Fissured tiles are fitted across the entire span of the underside delaying the time for fire and heat to reach the structural floor.
Columns – Moulded around the columns fire resistant castings work to protect the columns which hold the deck from extreme heat. These can be either galvanised or colour coded for visibility.
Edges – Coated fascia is placed around the edges including stairway and open loading areas.
Cavity Barriers – Where the space between the floor and ceiling is over 20m vertical cavity barriers are fitted within the mezzanine ceiling, concealing any pocket openings to prevent smoke seeping through.
All of the above allow up to one hour of protection. Trying to understand the regulations and requirements around mezzanine floor fire safety can often seem very complicated. This is why WSL take care of all aspects of fire safety and building regulations on your behalf. We work closely with regulating bodies and officers so you don’t have too, before passing all approved safety documentation to you.
Mezzanine Floor Design
The key element for a mezzanine floor design will be to understand the loads going onto it; how many people will be working on the floor, whether there will be any pallet racking or shelving and what Material Handling Equipment (MHE) will be used to move materials around. These will be the factors in calculating the standard deflection for the floor, impacting decisions on what the floor will be made of and whether the load needs to be dispersed with spreading plates on the floor below. Generally, office and retail mezzanines will need to have less deflection than is allowable in a standard loadings storage mezzanine floor.
Mezzanine Floor Manufacture
As a semi-permanent steel structure a mezzanine floor should be manufactured in compliance with UKCA (was CE marking) regulations. As a manufacturer of mezzanine floors ourselves, WSL constantly maintain our UKCA accreditation alongside our Full SEMA membership so we can confidently guarantee quality assurance and the highest levels of safety. We follow the stringent standards of BS5950-1:2000 for steel sections and BS EN 1993-1-3 and UK National Annexes for cold roll sections. There are many benefits of sourcing your mezzanine floor directly from a manufacturer including the elimination of mark-up costs, customisation, flexibility, and shorter lead times. WSL’s in-house factory sits side-by-side with our office where our design and project management teams work closely to ensure every project is executed with client-centricity.
Building Regulations, Health & Safety
Building regulations will dictate a number of issues, particularly the access routes. In order to comply with building regulations, designers and engineers will be considering the escape distance and types of access that are required. They will look at who is intended to be on the floor and how many people may require access at a time. The safety regulations for your mezzanine will be dependent on numerous factors, including the size of the mezzanine floor, its use, and intended users. You will need expert help to clarify the exact specifications that you need to follow for your project – more information can be found in our article “Mezzanine Floor Safety – What You Need To Know About The Law”
Mezzanine Floor installation
Your mezzanine floor installation by WSL will be overseen by your assigned Project Manager as a construction project. As a steel structural build involving numerous contractors, Construction Design and Management 2015 Regulations (CDM) will be adhered to at every stage ensuring health and safety is prioritised throughout. Your WSL Project Manager will oversee and monitor all health and safety aspects whilst undertaking steps to ensure standards remain consistently high during the full length of the build.
As the mezzanine floor construction takes shape, you’ll be kept informed on progress and if at any point you have any questions for our installation team, just ask! You’ll find them very informative, friendly and approachable.
A mezzanine floor constructed by WSL will not result in a messy area on completion. Before leaving your site, our team will take care of any leftover packaging, debris and any other bits and pieces so your space is clean and tidy, ready for you to start using your new floor level.
Want to learn more? See WSL’s very focused guide to mezzanine floor solutions where you’ll find ample information based on the knowledge and experience of our expert team.
Even a small mezzanine floor can make a big difference to your business
It may be true that many of the mezzanine floor projects carried out by WSL are large scale, but it is also true that many are of a smaller size too. Mezzanine floors of any size are the perfect way to maximise limited spaces without compromising the ground floor area. A small mezzanine floor is certainly worthwhile if you just need that little bit of extra floor space to accommodate new or expanding working areas. By making a significant improvement to your workspace, a small mezzanine floor can bring huge value to your operation, and all you need is sufficient height space and the expertise of the WSL design team for this to be possible.
In all types of settings, WSL has installed a small mezzanine floor for all kinds of purposes including additional storage, offices, veterinary treatment rooms and a dance studio. However you intend to use your raised platform, WSL will design and implement a bespoke solution to match your exact needs and on budget. Your project will be carried out with the same level of attentiveness as any other project, because at WSL we focus on your requirements individually to ensure we create a bespoke solution that will bring you long term savings in terms of time, money and space.
You can even future proof your small mezzanine floor
A small mezzanine floor with a future proof design will be much easier to extend should your needs change later down the line. Investing in additional floor space you don’t currently need makes no sense, however investing in floor space you do currently need with the assurance this can be extended easily and quickly in the future, makes perfect sense. This is a huge advantage should you anticipate future growth because it means that your immediate needs can be met and should you need that extra floor space in the future, it will be simple and easy to achieve.
Mezzanine Floors
Warehouse Mezzanines
Retail Mezzanines
Office Mezzanines
FAQs
The benefits
Mezzanine Floors
Increase Space
Custom & Bespoke
Flexibility
SMEs & Large Corporations
Why use WSL to design and build your mezzanine?
Experienced designers and no up-front costs
Experts in the industry
WSL has a complete knowledge of all building regulations, updating ourselves on any new requirements, so we are able to incorporate building regulations into all designs and production. All our mezzanine floors are manufactured in WSL’s state-of–the-art Leeds factory, ready for on-site installation.WSL is CE certified and purchases steel from companies with the same CE certification ensuring that every part of the mezzanine construction process is CE certified. Unfortunately, not all UK companies can make this claim, but at WSL we believe it is vital to a robust, high quality manufacturing process.
Stress-free installation
Why choose wsl?
What Sets Us Apart
Our dedicated and experienced team will take time to understand your goals and asses your needs. Our extensive market knowledge and practical experience enables us to design and develop a bespoke system that is as unique as your business. Here at WSL we aim to maximise your available space and increase productivity through creating innovative and ‘outside the box’ solutions. Our commitment to excellence, our portfolio and our recommendations provide our customers with confidence in our ability to deliver solutions that are not only superior, but very cost-effective. Our in-house services simplify the process from design, to installation by giving you just one port of call. By continuing to remain independent across the whole market we commit to providing our valued customers with the highest quality and – wherever possible – British products, all at competitive prices. We manufacture a number of storage solution components in our 37,000 sq ft manufacturing facility in Leeds, West Yorkshire and are accredited to CE Marking BS EN 1090. We aim to fit our storage systems with as little inconvenience to our clients as possible, using highly experienced fitters overseen by qualified project managers.
Our Accreditations
client stories
Some Case Studies
Our mezzanine floors experience is extensive. Take a look at a very small selection of some of the mezzanine floor projects we have completed over the years.
Useful Mezzanine Floor resources
Mezzanine floors – Your questions answered in this complete guide
Your new mezzanine floor – our design process explained
Manufacturing your mezzanine floor
Mezzanine floor installation – What’s involved?
The benefits of a warehouse mezzanine floor
A gym mezzanine floor – discover the why’s and how’s
How an office mezzanine floor can transform your warehouse
Trusted by all
Just Some Of Our Clients
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