Need more space in your facility but can’t expand out? Adding a mezzanine floor gets you room to grow without breaking ground. But choosing the right mezzanine floor builders like AW Structures is key to maximizing your investment. This guide will help you pick pros who can deliver the mezzanine you need on time and on budget.
Know the Types of Mezzanines
Not all mezzanines are created equal. The type you need depends on your goals, space and budget. Industrial steel mezzanines are durable and customizable for factories and warehouses. They maximize storage space thanks to open, steel construction. Structural mezzanines are permanent, integrated into a building’s foundation and walls. They essentially create a new floor, requiring major construction.
Shelving mezzanines combine shelving units and elevated platforms. Better for display and retail than heavy duty storage and operations. Office mezzanines convert vacant overhead space into useful offices and meeting rooms. Typically includes walls, lighting and amenities. Once you settle on the perfect mezzanine type and layout for your needs, it’s time to pick the right builder.
Vet Experience and Credentials
This is a major construction project, so you need an expert builder you can count on. When comparing companies, ask how long they’ve been in business and how many mezzanine projects they’ve completed. Look for at least 10+ years experience. Verify they employ in-house designers, engineers and installers. This expertise is a must.
Make sure they have the right licenses, insurance and bonds to operate legally in your state. Look for members of trade groups like the National Association of Mezzanine Manufacturers or Association of Licensed Architects. This signals credibility.
Assess Customization Options
Each factory’s needs are unique, so customization capability is essential in a mezzanine builder. See if they offer flexible sizing and layouts to maximize your space, material options like steel, aluminum and wood to suit different settings, and ample accessory choices, i.e. stairs, gates, railings, shelving etc. Design extras like finishing, lighting, ventilation and sprinklers are also important.
Top builders craft made-to-order mezzanines tailored to your workflows, not one-size-fits-all designs.
Evaluate Project Management Skills
Your mezzanine must be completed on schedule with minimal disruption to operations. Be sure potential builders have documented processes for design, approvals, permitting and installation. They should provide a detailed project timeline and integrate with your business calendar. Assigning a dedicated project manager to oversee the process from start to finish is essential.
Streamlined project management ensures your mezzanine goes in on time, on spec, and on budget.
Compare Warranties and Support
Even with an expert installation, issues may pop up. Make sure your builder offers at least a 5-year structural warranty on the mezzanine materials and construction, maintenance documentation and training to keep everything running smoothly, and ongoing tech support in case questions or problems arise after the project. Having reliable post-project support brings peace of mind.
Inspect Projects in Person
Once you’ve narrowed down the field, visit actual mezzanine projects the builder has delivered in other facilities. Seeing past work firsthand gives the best sense of their capabilities. As you tour completed mezzanines, look for quality construction with sturdy materials and craftsmanship, meticulous attention to safety details throughout, smooth integration into existing space and workflows, and a layout optimized for the client’s needs and goals.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect mezzanine builder for your expanding business may take some homework, but it’s a decision that pays dividends for years to come. Take time to understand your needs, mezzanine provider capabilities and credentials, and inspect finished projects. The ideal partner will construct a custom mezzanine that meets your unique requirements on time and on budget.
