Space is a fundamental part of any warehouse and business. It’s used for storing stock, functional office space, creative studios, or even logistical purposes. When growing as a business, naturally your premises need to grow too, catering for the additional needs and demands of customers and clients. Whilst relocating or extending might be the first thing that comes to mind, you may want to reconsider your current space and how it can be transformed and utilised efficiently by using storage systems like mezzanine floors.
Mezzanine floors are a popular option for many businesses, and we can see why. They are versatile and can be custom-built for your needs, maximising the current usable space without having to expand the building’s footprint.
Read on and discover the top five benefits of installing a mezzanine floor in your warehouse.
1. Mezzanine floors = additional, flexible floor space
Whilst it may seem obvious, adding additional floor space is the number one benefit of installing a mezzanine floor.
However, the mezzanine floor does far more, increasing the profitability of your business by utilising an area you can’t normally use – your overhead space. This is important in an area such as a warehouse where the height of the building is typically vast and often neglected. Why extend outwards when you already have the space to build up? In some cases, you can almost double the floor space you have with very little outlay.
Mezzanine floors are not only to limited storage facilities and with the correct design for your specific requirement, they can also support other business needs such as increased production or an office area.
The size of the mezzanine floor won’t limit your requirements either. Providing the mezzanine meets safety standards set out in UK Building Regulations, the floor can be as large as your space enables and even accommodate multiple levels.
2. Mezzanine floors create a multifunctional warehouse
Warehouses are often used as a central hub for everything, from customer service, office space to delivery and returns. Some warehouses offer the full 360 service with the need for training areas and recycling zones. They might even have a customer shop or outlet on site too.
Using a mezzanine floor allows you to centralise your business and consolidate operations into one space e.g. instead of separate locations, you could instead look at splitting the space in your warehouse for specific roles. Perhaps you need to separate your e-commerce business from your retail and trade business – this could be the perfect solution.
The advantage of having one space is collaboration between teams. Different departments can work closer together and understand systems better when they are all under one roof. They can support one another and resolve issues quicker through better communication. A mezzanine floor allows you to be more flexible with your operations and gives you the space you need.
3. A cost-effective business alternative
Installing a mezzanine floor could seem an expensive outlay, but in reality, it is far more cost-effective than renting another warehouse or relocating to a new unit. With the correct mezzanine for your business, the space should increase productivity and efficiency. Plus, by designing the floor for your exact specification, you can easily future-proof the space by accommodating future growth and changing requirements.
As an attractive asset for other businesses, it can even increase the value of your building if you’re planning on selling it. However, if you do become too attached, as a semi-permanent structure you may take it with you when relocating.
4. Minimum hassle, maximum benefit – Mezzanine Floors
Refurbishing a new warehouse, installing your shelving, relocating your stock and office equipment, and updating your return details can take months to do. That’s on top of dealing with the challenge of running a business efficiently. Installing a mezzanine level will minimise your downtime. The mezzanine can be modular in a bespoke design to meet your individual needs, allowing a fast and efficient installation that reduces disruption to day-to-day operations.
It’s worth noting that mezzanine floors are considered semi-permanent structures. As such, these structures do not require planning permission and you only need building regulations approval. We’d always recommend checking with your landlord and local authority with regards to floor slab suitability and means of escape. Get in touch with our team and we can help with any questions you might have.
5. It’s not a quick fix
Although a mezzanine floor is classed as a non-permanent structure, that doesn’t mean it’s only temporary. In fact, just like your racking, you should view your mezzanine floor as a long-term solution that is designed and built to last. The design of your floor will incorporate the weight load requirements to ensure that the platform will safely support activities.
This makes your mezzanine floor an ideal choice when looking to future-proof operations. Instead of moving to a larger site, you can expand and work with what you already have. It means less risk and more growth.
Of course, as with any structure, you will need to conduct regular inspections to maintain its weight-bearing load and structural integrity.
Looking to install a mezzanine floor in your warehouse?
Are you ready to take the next step in growing your warehouse and business? At Teepee, we’ve been providing high-quality warehouse solutions for over 35 years. We are your trusted partner, ensuring that your warehouse or workplace is as efficient as it can be. Our experienced team will work with you to create tailored designs that meet your needs. We will conduct the necessary assessments to ensure your structure meets safety, building and quality standards. Get in touch with our specialists today.