Mezzanine Floors

Frequently Asked Questions

Mezzanines Explained

What are Mezzanine Floors?

A mezzanine floor, comprised of ‘lightweight steel structures’, is used to create additional storeys within existing buildings. They are completely independent of the building structure and are supported via structural steel columns.

 

They maximise the vertical space between the floor and the ceiling of a building, by constructing an, often, free-standing structure, built between two main floors, or floor and roof.

 

They offer increased capacity for storage as well as the opportunity to create separated spaces off the main floor in which to accommodate living spaces, offices or other resources, for a minimum investment that utilises otherwise unused potential within the existing construction.

How are mezzanine floors constructed?

Designed to cover a specific area of a building, rather than the entire floor space, mezzanines are installed to make full use of available vertical space to create additional room both above and below.

 

The basic construction consists of columns, primary beams, purloins (or joists), and then decking. Depending on the materials used, and the chosen flooring, they can be rated to carry a range of heavy loads, as well as incorporating loading bays and other lifting machinery and of course access by stairs.

 

They can be built entirely free of existing structures and often as semi-permanent structures found in industrial settings, used as offices or warehouse mezzanine floors, providing increased storage and other facilities. Mostly, they custom-made to the specifications of the building and the client.

Do you need planning permission for a mezzanine floor?

Being free-standing structures the number of permissions required are often fewer than for other types of constructions.  Requirements also change depending on local ordinance as well as national regulation.

 

Our skilled and experienced team are available to guide you through every step of the process, liaising between technical and administrative advice, to ensure safety and full compliance with all the applicable licenses and regulations, for your mezzanine project.

Are Mezzanine Floors fully accessible?

According to Section M of the Building Regulations, accessibility does depend on the purpose of the Mezzanine however at TDI we are well aware of the importance of inclusivity and will work with you to create suitable options for your project.

 

Staircases for disabled access have specific requirements that we can advise you on.

Why are Mezzanine Floors so cost-effective?

Mezzanine floor installation offers a really affordable option for improved usage of space and resources. Mezzanines increase functionality, whether in a domestic, industrial, retail or other commercial setting, by creating clean, new, custom-built floor spaces, allowing for growth and greater utilisation of the building’s existing capacities.

 

Whether freestanding or suspended mezzanine floors, within the fabric of the original structure, they offer an economically sound way to improve overall aesthetics and diversify usability of existing and available space.

 

In comparison to moving to larger premises, and all of the associated marketing & relocation costs, Mezzanine Floors make complete financial sense.

What Can You Use Mezzanine Flooring For?

A mezzanine floor can be used to create additional storage space, first and second storey office extensions, manufacturing plants, retail outlets and more. Each mezzanine floor that we install is bespoke to meet the needs of our customers, whether it’s large column spacing’s required, heavy loads or the most economical of designs.

 

Our Mezzanines can be used for:

But the opportunities are endless!

How long does it take to install a Mezzanine Floor and how much disruption will there be?

The TDI team work quickly and efficiently to ensure that your project is completed in the shortest time possible. We work with you to consider all the logistics to ensure that any disruption and downtime is kept to an absolute minimum.

Will a Mezzanine Floor increase my business rates?

If you use your new mezzanine for storage or warehouse purposes it will not affect your business rates. If you use it for office or retail space then there may be some increase. We would advise you to contact your local council to ask the question.

How large can a Mezzanine Floor be?

Building Regulations do not specify limits in terms of Mezzanine Floors. If you are classed as an out-of-town development there are some restrictions from the Government that we will need to consider.

 

You may also be able to have multiple tiers if your ceiling height is high enough.

 

TDI Systems will be able to advise you regarding your specific situation and will ensure your designs take into account any relevant guidance.

Will a Mezzanine Floor disrupt the area below it?

By their nature, Mezzanine Floors do require support columns that will need to be anchored in the area below. During the design & planning process, TDI Systems take this into account and create a design that meets the needs of the lower area and the mezzanine level.

What about Health & Safety & Building Regulations for Mezzanine Floors?

As mezzanine floor installers, all our products are manufactured to the highest standards and from the best quality components. We work closely with your Local Authority, or our approved inspector, to ensure that your mezzanine structure complies with current legislation and is installed safely and practically, with minimum disruption to your business.

 

All Mezzanine Floors require a ‘Building Regulations’ Application to be submitted for approval. Our experienced site technicians will advise on every aspect of the necessary steps required to satisfy the regulations governing individual floors in any type of office, retail, or industrial environment. Initial consultation is made with the specialist Building Regulations department to ensure that the mezzanine floor is designed in accordance with up-to-date legislation.

 

The safety of our customers, employees and members of the public is paramount. Our installers work to strict Health & Safety guidelines at all times. They have a wealth of experience completing Risk Assessments, Method Statements and following Safe Systems of work.

How do Mezzanines affect our fire safety?

Mezzanine Floors are covered by Section B of the Building Regulations.

 

If your floor is mainly used for storage, is less than 20m in width and depth, doesn’t exceed 50% of the original floor plan and has a means of access it may be exempt however TDI Systems will be advise you on this matter.

 

We offer a full fire protection service as part of our quote.

Do we need a separate company to fit-out our new mezzanine floor so that we can use it?

Our mezzanine floors are of the best quality in the industry, and TDI Systems can provide all of ancillary items you might need, i.e storage, racking, pallet gates, staircases and handrails (powder coated as standard, to provide many years of trouble free performance).


As an independent company, we are committed to providing the best service to our clients by providing flexible solutions. We are proud of our ability to provide bespoke services to suit all our customer’s need.

If you require a full office refurbishment, we can take care of this for you too. For more information click here.

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