Installing a mezzanine floor is a great way to double your space. Mezzanine kits make it easier by providing all the materials you need pre-packaged. However, taking the right precautions when buying a kit is crucial. Let’s explore key Precautions you must take when you buy mezzanine floor kit products from an authentic seller like AW Structures to make a smooth, successful mezzanine kit purchase.
Choose the Right Kit Type
Mezzanine kits come in different types depending on usage:
- Industrial – For warehouses and manufacturing facilities handling heavy loads. Steel construction.
- Commercial – For retail stores, offices, etc, needing a sleek look. Aluminum or steel.
- Residential – For homes, lighter storage needs. Wood construction.
- Outdoor – For exterior uses with weather-resistant materials.
Consider your primary application and purchase the appropriate kit type suited for it.
Take Precise Measurements
Success starts with detailed measurements of the area:
- Room dimensions – Length, width, and height. Include overhead obstructions, too.
- Load capacity needs – Weight the mezzanine must hold. This determines the materials needed.
- Stair placement – Measure exact stairwell dimensions and location.
- Beam locations – Note any support columns, posts, or walls for attaching beams.
Precise measurements allow proper sizing and customization of the kit for your space.
Consult Local Building Codes
Most areas have codes for structural additions like mezzanines. Research codes covering:
- Maximum floor load capacities based on use
- Minimum headroom clearances
- Required railing heights and gaps
- Fire safety and sprinkler requirements
- Restrictions on stair designs
- Allowed mezzanine size relative to room
Consulting codes in advance prevents having to redo non-compliant aspects.
Choose Safe Materials
Selecting kit materials suitable for the intended use is vital:
- Floors – Plyboard, steel plate, fiberglass, etc. Materials that can handle expected weight loads.
- Beams – Structural steel I-beams or wide-flange beams to support floor spans.
- Decking – Non-combustible types like steel, concrete, or fiberglass panels for fire safety.
- Railings – Sturdy steel or aluminum rails, as well as glass barriers, if transparency is needed.
Don’t skimp on materials – they directly impact safety and durability.
Review Included Components
Kits should contain all components for complete installation:
- All hardware – Bolts, connectors, fasteners, adhesive, etc. Verify sufficient quantities.
- Detailed plans – Step-by-step assembly instructions with diagrams.
- Handrails – Railing for stairs and mezzanine perimeter. It may be pre-welded for easy assembly.
- Safety gates – For the top and bottom of stairs.
- Electrical – Lighting, switches, outlets, and wiring if needed.
- Plumbing – Sinks, drains, and water lines if incorporating a bathroom.
Having all the pieces eliminates delays and added costs post-purchase.
Consider Acoustics
Factor noise transmission, if used below, produces sound. Options to isolate noise include:
- Floating floors – Floors suspended above structural beams via resilient clips.
- Insulation – Sound damping material added during construction.
- Sound masking – White noise systems help cover ambient noise leakage.
- Carpeting – Soft flooring helps absorb footfall noise above.
Stopping sound transmission improves functionality and privacy.
Conclusion
Purchasing a properly constructed mezzanine kit engineered for your exact specifications reduces hassles and ensures the new level functions safely for years to come. Follow these precautions and you can install your kit with confidence.
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