Mezzanine floors are a great way to double your space and expand offerings in warehouses, stores, hotels and other facilities. Prefabricated mezzanine kits allow for quick, affordable installations that transform unused overhead air into valuable real estate. But with so many supplier options, how do you ensure you get a top-quality Mezzanine floor kits and solutions tailored to your needs? Follow this buying guide for expert advice from the likes of AW Structures.
Determine Your Requirements
Before contacting any mezzanine company, outline key requirements so you choose the right solution:
- Space and Dimensions – Measure where the new floor will stand to determine needed square footage and any clearance or height issues. Account for stairs, columns and potential openings.
- Load Capacity – Estimate weights of anything stored on the structure, like inventory, equipment or furnishings, and add a safety margin. Select rated floor panels.
- Access Needs – Decide if multiple access stairways are preferable for separation of activities. Note any locations where floor openings for lifts or chutes are needed.
- Safety Railings – Open sides require protective barriers, gates and kick plates to prevent falls. Define style and materials like steel cable, glass or metal mesh.
- Use and Activities – How the space will function should guide choices like modular components allowing future reconfigurations, sound-insulating decking between events and dining, etc.
By clearly defining purposes, spatial constraints, necessary capacities and desired components, you enable mezzanine vendors to put together a custom recommendation fulfilling your fundamental needs.
- Research Multiple Suppliers
Rather than going with the first search result, vet a few top mezzanine floor vendors. Reputable companies will offer free consultations and recommendations. Be wary of quotes that seem too good to be true. Carefully compare:
- Quality – Examine images and components lists. Opt for sturdy steel or aluminum over cheaper woods prone to wear and corrosion over time. Prioritize stability and safety.
- Customization – Look for a range of decking, columns, stairs, rails and modular pieces to adapt the kit perfectly to your facility. Avoid one-size-fits all packages.
- Experience and Credentials – Choose an established vendor with extensive expertise designing commercial mezzanines. Ask for client references and verify any certifications related to engineering standards.
- Price and ROI – Get multiple bids for your defined needs to compare pricing. Also calculate long-term return on investment and payback period based on new income streams the mezzanine unlocks.
- Warranties and Support – Reputable companies offer warranties against defects for multiple years. Ask about responsive customer service, spare parts availability and maintenance guidance.
By taking time to thoroughly evaluate prospective vendors, you can gain confidence choosing an ideal partner for flawless mezzanine execution.
Secure Required Permits & Approvals
Before finalizing a kit purchase, your vendor will determine local construction permitting needs for adding a structural second floor, electrical installs or renovations to enable the new mezzanine. Some areas have strict seismic regulations as well. They should submit plans to authorities and confirm regulations are met prior to ordering materials. Choose transparent experts who proactively handle compliance.
Oversee or Assist with Installation
Mezzanine installation may take just days with pre-engineered kits spelling out assembly. Opt to oversee progress or assist where reasonable to ensure proper adherence to safety procedures and your custom needs. While vendors handle the heavy lifting, provide access arrangements and a realistic timeline accounting for interruptions.
Inspect & Certify the Completed Structure
Before stocking any new mezzanine, conduct a rigorous walk-through checking:
- Deck interface with supports for any gaps indicating instability.
- Level floor alignment with steps and ramps for tripping hazards.
- Baluster spacing on railings conforming to codes.
- Safety signage and visibility of fire exits.
- Proper lighting and ventilation.
- Anchoring integrity to handle expected weight loads.
The vendor should provide official engineering certification of the floor’s design capacity before you begin full operations.
Read Also: Engagement with Dealia
Conclusion
By clearly planning needs, vetting suppliers, securing permits, overseeing build-out and certifying safety, you can realize maximum ROI on a custom mezzanine enhancing your facility. Partner with reliable experts to create durable overhead space supporting business growth for decades to come.
