Mezzanine Floor Frequently Asked Questions

What is a mezzanine floor? A definition

A mezzanine floor is an additional level between the main floors in a building. Mezzanine floors have a wide range of applications and are often used in retail, office and warehouse spaces to provide valuable additional floor space. A mezzanine floor is an additional level between the main floors in a building. Mezzanine floors have a wide range of applications and are often used in retail, office and warehouse spaces to provide valuable additional floor space. In industrial applications, mezzanine floor systems are semi-permanent floor systems typically installed within buildings, built between two permanent original stories. These structures are usually free standing and in most cases can be dismantled and relocated.

 

Are mezzanine floors subject to business rates?

It's unlikely that your business rates will change if your mezzanine flooring is used for warehouse storage purposes. For office accommodation though, your rates may be affected.

 

What is a mezzanine floor used for?

Maximizing the potential of each clients available space demands intelligent design and specification of the mezzanine floor accotding to its intended use. Our resident design team will create a solution that exactly matches your requirements.

 

Do I need building regulations before I start my mezzanine floor?

A mezzanine flooring does not require planning permission, but you will need to get building regulations approval. You'll need to apply to the local council by sending them drawings, structural calculations and plans. We can provide these for you or carry out this for you.

 

Can the mezzanine floor be installed before building regulations are approved?

Yes, we can commence works after 48 hours from the initial Building Regulations Application.

 

What are the typical installation times for a mezzanine floor?

The whole process normally takes 6 - 8 weeks depending on the Mezzanine Floor size and manufacturing capabilities at the time of order.

 

Does my mezzanine floor need to be fire protected?

The answer is yes if any of the following apply:

if the mezzanine is used as an office or has permanent occupants.

if over 50% of a building’s space is encompassed by the mezzanine.

if the mezzanine extends more than 20 meters in either direction.

When the building has a sprinkler system that can extend below the mezzanine level, fire protection will not be required for the mezzanine

 

Does my mezzanine floor need a protected escape route?

A fire rated stair enclosure is sometimes required for Office Mezzanine Floors and large Mezzanines with personnel working on them to comply with Building Regulations.

 

How much load capacity is required on my mezzanine floor?

In line with the recommendations in BRE Digest 437 – Mezzanine Floor Design, the recommended load capacities are as follows:

Office use / Light Storage – 3.5kn/m2 UDL (350 kgs / m2)

General Storage Use – 4.8kn/m2 UDL (480 kgs / m2)

Heavy Storage – 7.2kn/m2 UDL (720 kgs / m2)

Please consult us for heavier load requirements.

 

Will a new mezzanine floor require Disabled Access?

Mezzanines used for storage purposes don't usually require disabled access, but if you're using the flooring to create offices or additional retail space you may have to consider this.

 

During the installation of my mezzanine floor, how will it impact my business?

We will plan for the installation so that the impact on your business is minimised. In accordance with Health and Safety procedures, the installation area must be cordoned off during installation to keep your staff safe. Ideally, the area should be as clear as possible, with unrestricted access for our installation team. Should you require temporary work areas for your staff, our team can assist you.