A mezzanine is an elevated platform constructed between the floor and the ceiling of a building. It is mainly used in warehouses and retail spaces. In particular, a mezzanine is a self-supporting structure whose flooring is made of steel, wood or concrete. For warehouses, mezzanines are ideal for maximizing available vertical space. Once a mezzanine is set up, the area below and above it can be used for storage or production purposes.

The idea of mezzanine systems in the industrial environment was introduced to optimize available vertical space and improve workflow and order in such buildings as warehouses. This extra floor provides owners with a whole new platform to store materials.

Additional Usable Space: The first and most crucial benefit of mezzanine systems is the increase in available space. As opposed to more costly and time-consuming renovation or relocation, mezzanines allow you to easily add extra usable spaces for storage, production, or whatever you need them for. It is the best way to save money and time that would have otherwise been used to renovate/relocate.

Cost-Savings: Similarly, mezzanine systems allow you to increase space in your building without necessarily denting your budget. Additional space will enable you to store more items and have extra space for more personnel, when combined with a modular office, without having to move to a new facility. Mezzanines also help save on heating costs- because upper floors do not require heating like the lower floors thanks to warm air that rises into the upper layers of the building. This helps reduce energy consumption.

Increased Retail Space: If you sell directly to the end consumers at your facility, you will appreciate mezzanine systems because you’ll get space to set up demo areas, create displays or even design secluded areas for meetings. Having the additional space helps to pique the interest of target customers quickly away from the bustle of the shops below.

Easily Customizable: Probably the best thing you’ll appreciate about mezzanines is their ability to be customized to your particular needs, regardless of what you do or what you want to use the mezzanines for.

Productivity and Efficiency: Finally, the most significant benefit of mezzanines, especially to business owners, is that the increased space helps workers get things done faster and more efficiently. Clutter can create confusion and even cause unnecessary accidents, but with all the extra space, you can expect better workflow and performance.

Tax Benefits: Because most mezzanines are considered equipment, they qualify for accelerated tax depreciation and can be amortized over a period of 7 years versus conventional construction which is 39 years.

Lighting and Aesthetics: Mezzanine systems also provide more light to a building that lacks natural light. Because the lower side of these systems is usually fitted with bulbs, they help brighten dark buildings like warehouses. Further, buildings that have high ceilings often look empty and hollow, and mezzanine systems can be introduced to create depth and substance while enhancing aesthetics.

There are several ways in which mezzanine systems can be used in businesses. These can include smaller floor spaces for minimal use and large floor spaces for multiple purposes.

Storage: One of the most important uses of mezzanine systems is to provide extra space. Only a simple steel structure with sufficient load bearing can create considerable space for extra boxes, equipment, and packages. With storage, it is essential to consider how items will be stored and accessed. Stairs may work for smaller objects, but heavy equipment may require the use of forklifts and elevators.

Office Space: A mezzanine system can be combined with a modular office, and incorporate all the features of a typical office, including sockets, lighting, heating, and internet cables, to create a highly professional office environment complete with decorated walls, doors, windows, and a ceiling. The office will not be any different from offices on the ground floor – except they will be exceptionally affordable, yet practical.

Other applications of mezzanines include:

• Observation decks
• Watchtowers
• Work platfoms

For the many benefits and applications listed above, mezzanine systems are more than just another addition to your facility. They maximize available vertical space, increase cost savings, and improve productivity and efficiency in your business. If you want to find out more about the different types of mezzanine systems and how they can benefit your business, contact us at 877-764-0453 or find us on Facebook.