MEZZANINE FLOORS
Mezzanine Floor FAQs
Why should we build our Mezzanine Floor with WSL?
WSL provides a complete package, from the planning of a mezzanine floor, through the design process, to every aspect of the building work; including providing access and electrics. We have knowledge and experience of all applicable regulations, so our clients can be confident that all work is completely safe and built in line with current policy. WSL are the only company in the UK that has the CE mark for the production of mezzanine floors, over all stages of the process; all the way from qualified sales personnel, design, project managers, production department and the installation process. We understand the importance of keeping warehouse down time to a minimum and have excellent lead times, so many clients find that the construction is far less disruptive than they had anticipated. We also have site foremen onsite daily to ensure that all operations are running smoothly.
How much weight can a mezzanine floor take?
Mezzanine floors can be engineered to take any weight that is required. For the purposes of designing and manufacturing mezzanine floors, weight is measured in Kilonewtons (kN); a measure of gravitational field strength. Generally, for office mezzanines, designers would be planning for a loading of 3.5 kN. For a mezzanine floor storing 500kg pallets it would be a 5 kN loading, and for a floor storing 800kg pallets the loading would be 7.2kN.
Past this point, the issue becomes the floor that the mezzanine is being built on. In most cases there will be a piling cap required; parts of the floor will need to be taken up as far as the bed rock and filled with concrete to form an exceptionally strong foundation.
Past this point, the issue becomes the floor that the mezzanine is being built on. In most cases there will be a piling cap required; parts of the floor will need to be taken up as far as the bed rock and filled with concrete to form an exceptionally strong foundation.
Do I need planning permission for a mezzanine?
Planning permission is not usually required, as a mezzanine is built inside an existing building and because a mezzanine floor is defined as a temporary structure. However, Building Regulations will need to be consulted as well as the local fire officer who will want to see evidence of a design facilitating easy escape routes.
Do I need to alter the fire safety plan for the mezzanine floor?
Yes, you will need to alter the safety plan with details of the route that any personnel working on the floor will need to take to get to the nearest exit.
Can I run a forklift truck on a mezzanine?
A forklift can be run on a mezzanine floor, but at a greater expense than a floor designed for product to be handled by personnel on foot. The issue is that the weight of a heavy forklift is carried on only three or four wheels (as opposed to heavy pallets, where the weight is distributed across a wide area). Standard Mezzanine floors tend to be constructed with 38mm particle board, which is not strong enough to withstand the pressure of forklifts. Therefore the floor will have to be constructed of something with a much higher puncture load, such as concrete. This in turn may mean that the floor below also needs to be reinforced. Speak to WSL today for more information or to discuss your requirements.
Can mezzanines be made exclusively from wood?
Mezzanine floors cannot be made of flammable materials such as wood. They should be made out of steel, with a proven design.
When do I need a fire rating?
Needing Fire rating is dependent on the location, size and use of your mezzanine floor, as well as use of and size of building. The use and environment of the floor also needs to be taken into account. Contact WSL today to discuss your situation.
How long does it take to build a mezzanine floor?
The production of a mezzanine from WSL is generally about 4 weeks from the sign off of the design. However, in some cases, this can be quicker if required.
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Some Case Studies
Our mezzanine floor experience is extensive. Take a look at a very small selection of some of the mezzanine floor projects we have completed over the years.
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Our service is completely client-centric. We provide all manufacturer types, as well as fitters, engineers and inspectors; which means that not only can we deliver your entire project from start to finish, but that we can provide a fully bespoke solution for your individual needs. Get in touch to find out more.