If your inventory is growing faster than your warehouse can handle and you’re seeking an immediate solution; mezzanine storage may be your best bet. These versatile solutions can create between 30% and 100% additional storage capacity. They allow you to make the most of vertical space without expanding the physical footprint of your facility. But how do you know which mezzanine floor is right for your warehouse? Let’s use this article to review the types of systems available, highlight Krost’s mezzanine floor solutions designed to meet countless operational needs, and help you get closer to the best solution.
What Is a Mezzanine Floor?
A mezzanine floor is an ancillary level that augments the internal structure of a building. It provides added warehouse storage or operational space to help businesses make the most of their vertical real estate. Warehouse mezzanines can be used for storage, offices, or supplementary workspace. They can also be modified with a variety of practical features such as handrails, stairways, and safety barriers.
Types of Mezzanine Floors
Several types of mezzanine floors exist on the market, each providing unique benefits that depend on your warehouse’s layout and requirements. Here’s a brief overview:
Free-Standing Mezzanine Floors
Free-standing mezzanines are the most flexible types of mezzanine floors because they are supported by steel columns. They are installable anywhere in the warehouse, so they are most suited for creating more storage without interfering with workflow.
Rack-Supported Mezzanines
Perfect for warehouses that already use pallet racking systems, rack-supported mezzanines integrate with your existing racks. They are an economical option because of this, and they improve both your storage and operational capabilities. Rack-supported mezzanines compare to bolted shelving in strength.
Shelving-Supported Mezzanines
Like rack-supported mezzanines, these are built on top of shelving units. They are an excellent alternative for warehouses with small, high-density goods. Shelving-supported mezzanines are typically used in environments with regular picking operations.
Concrete Mezzanines
Known for their stability, concrete mezzanines are optimal for heavy-duty operations where strength and longevity are decisive. However, they can be more expensive and less adaptable than steel selections.
Custom Mezzanines
If your warehouse has distinct needs, custom-built mezzanines can be individualised to meet distinctive operational conditions, like incorporating specialised equipment or meeting stringent safety regulations.
Krost’s Mezzanine Floor Offerings
At Krost, we supply two primary types of mezzanine storage: Free-Standing Steel or Structural Mezzanines and Rack-Supported Mezzanines. They are each crafted to meet different warehouse needs.
Structural Mezzanines
Krost’s structural mezzanine floors provide the utmost resilience and can be converted to your exact warehouse dimensions. Such mezzanines are supported by steel columns, letting you maximise vertical space without disrupting your ground-level operations. They’re the best mezzanine floor for your warehouse if you’re looking to generate increased office or storage space expertly and quickly. Plus, given their easy disassembly, they can be relocated or reconfigured as your business expands.
Rack-Supported Mezzanines
Our rack-supported mezzanine floors effortlessly integrate with your existing pallet racking systems, making them a systemized solution for storage development. Rack-supported mezzanines use the strength of your racking to support extra levels, reducing material costs while magnifying your storage capacity. They are mainly beneficial for warehouses with high-volume, heavy-duty storage needs.
Practical Considerations
It’s important to consider how the space will be used during daily operations as you choose the best mezzanine floor for your warehouse. A primary factor to think about includes lighting. Sufficient lighting is fundamental for safety and operational effectiveness. Your warehouse mezzanine must be well-lit to prevent accidents and facilitate a secure working environment. Others are handrails and stairways because safety is always a priority. Installing sturdy handrails and safe, accessible stairways will help prevent accidents and assure compliance with safety regulations.
The types of mezzanine floors you choose can impact longevity and functionality. Take steel grating; it is exceptional for heavy-duty storage, while plywood or concrete flooring might be better applied to offices or lighter storage areas. Safety measures in the form of guardrails, loading gates, and fire protection systems must be installed to prevent accidents and certify that your warehouse mezzanine floor meets local safety standards. Ultimately, the role of mezzanine floors in modern warehousing is absolute practicality for your organisation.
Conclusion
Choosing the best mezzanine floor for your warehouse comes down to getting to know your storage objectives and daily operations. Krost supplies genuine solutions that will help multiply warehouse space without compromising on safety or productivity for businesses that need a structural, or rack-supported mezzanine, and everything in-between. As you note practical elements like lighting, safety features, and material, you can be satisfied that your mezzanine exceeds your warehouse capacity expectations.For all the information you need on types of mezzanine floors and how Krost can assist with your warehouse needs, visit our website.
