Space is limited, and business decision-makers have very few options when it comes to adding more space. Undertaking an expansion can be a costly endeavor, and renting warehouse space can lead to unnecessary logistical challenges. The solution? Add a mezzanine.

A mezzanine essentially creates a whole new workspace or storage area within an existing facility. It’s a second floor—a place to store slow-moving products, seldom-used equipment, or even create more office space or a break room. And, when erected properly, a mezzanine can be reconfigured further down the road to accommodate evolving needs.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when building a mezzanine:

• Understand Your Needs. What will you be storing on the mezzanine? This will help determine weight capacity, which typically starts at 150 lbs per sq. ft., and how big the mezzanine needs to be. Also, think about who will need access and how often. For instance, employees wearing heels will appreciate a solid deck instead of grated metal.
• Measure Twice, Cut Once. Once you know what you’ll be storing, measure! Make sure you have enough room below the deck for whatever activity will take place there, and on the mezzanine to fit the equipment or products you intend to store there.
• Keep Building Codes In Mind. Building codes in your area may mandate a certain stairwell pitch (which is usually a 7 inch rise by 11 inch deep tread), or other safety or fire precautions. You may also need a “Professional Engineer” (or PE) stamped drawing prior to build-out to ensure it is sound and suitable for the intended use.

Mezzanines are a cost-effective solution to help overcome a wide range of space limitations.