Are you considering adding an elevated platform to your building but unsure which option to choose? Look no further!
In this article, we’ll compare and contrast the two most popular options: equipment platforms and mezzanines. Whether you’re looking to store equipment, provide access to mechanical systems, or simply maximise your floor space, we’ve got you covered.
Read on to learn which option of right for your space.
Equipment Platform
Equipment platforms, also known as work platforms or elevated platforms, are raised surfaces designed to provide access to mechanical systems and equipment while minimising the floor space they occupy.
They’re typically smaller than mezzanines and can be freestanding or rack-supported platforms, allowing for more flexibility in the layout of your space.
Equipment platforms are often used in warehouse settings to create work platforms or elevated walkways for workers to store equipment or perform maintenance tasks. They also generally have fewer building code requirements than mezzanines.
Mezzanine
A mezzanine floor is a more permanent intermediate level that’s integrated into a building’s physical structure. Mezzanines are typically larger than equipment platforms and are designed to add additional floor space to a building.
They’re often used in industrial and commercial settings as an efficient way to create additional space for offices, storage, or production areas.
Mezzanines are generally subject to more building codes and requirements and have a different building approval process for equipment platforms.
How do these work platforms compare?
When deciding between an equipment platform vs mezzanine platform, it’s important to understand the advantages and disadvantages of each option.
While both structures are designed to provide additional space and access to equipment, they have distinct differences in their construction, size, and intended use.
Let’s compare and contrast equipment platforms and mezzanines to help you determine which option is right for you and your space.
Providing access to mechanical systems and equipment
Which one is best?: When providing access to mechanical systems and equipment in smaller spaces, equipment platforms are typically the better option. They’re designed to be compact and efficient, minimising the floor area they occupy while still providing the necessary access to equipment.
Equipment platforms can be rack-supported or freestanding platforms, allowing for more flexibility in the layout of the space, which can be particularly useful in a manufacturing setting.
Additionally, equipment platforms are subject to fewer building code requirements than mezzanines, which makes for a smoother building approval process. This saves time and money in the long run, allowing your business to focus on its core operations.
When space is limited and efficiency is key, an equipment platform is often the better choice for providing access to mechanical systems and equipment.
Adding additional production space
Which one is best?: When adding additional production space to a building, mezzanines are often the better option. They’re designed to be a more permanent intermediate level integrated into the building’s physical structure, allowing for more square footage and overall floor space.
Mezzanines can be designed to fit the specific dimensions of the building, allowing for a customised and efficient use of space.
What’s more, mezzanines are a semi-permanent addition to the building, which can lead to a higher assessed value and potential tax benefits.
When adding additional production space to your building, mezzanines are often the better choice. They provide more square footage and a higher assessed value, but you should be prepared for a more complex building approval process and additional construction costs.
Storing equipment and inventory
Which one is best?: When it comes to storing equipment and inventory, mezzanines are typically the better option. Mezzanines are designed to be a whole new floor level, making them ideal for adding storage space in a warehouse or distribution centre.
One of the advantages of mezzanines is that they can be customised to fit the specific dimensions of your warehouse or commercial space, whereas equipment platforms are typically smaller and not suitable for larger storage needs.
Additionally, mezzanines can be designed to accommodate conveyor systems, which can improve the efficiency of inventory storage and retrieval. This can be particularly useful in a distribution centre where inventory management is crucial.
Bottom line? Mezzanines are often the best option in this scenario. They provide more space, customisation options, and long-term benefits.
Do mezzanines have the same building requirements as equipment platforms?
Mezzanines generally have more building requirements than equipment platforms. Mezzanines are a semi-permanent addition to the building’s physical structure, which means they often need to meet the same building codes as the rest of the building. They may also require additional construction to integrate with the existing building.
In contrast, equipment platforms are often subject to fewer building codes and requirements than mezzanines. They’re typically smaller than mezzanines and can be freestanding or rack-supported, which makes for a smoother approval process (if at all). This can save you and your business time and money, allowing you to focus on your core operations.
It’s important to note that building codes can vary depending on location and intended use. Businesses should consult with local building authorities and specialists to determine the specific requirements for their structure.
Equipment platform vs mezzanine work platforms: final thoughts
Between a mezzanine and equipment platform, the right option for you and your business will depend on several factors, such as the specific needs of the space and the intended use.
Equipment platforms are ideal for providing access to mechanical systems and equipment in smaller spaces, while mezzanines are better for adding additional production space in larger industrial or commercial settings.
By understanding the advantages and disadvantages of each option, you can make an informed decision and create an efficient and effective space for your operations.
Building a mezzanine | Work with the best mezzanine builders in Australia
If you’re looking for more information, or you’re ready to take the next steps and install a mezzanine floor on your business’s work site, look no further than Advanced Warehouse Structures.
From initial consultation and design to final installation and sign-off, we’re committed to delivering high-quality services and solutions that meet the needs of every single client all across Australia. Get in touch with us today to get a free quote.