After talking to our clients about better utilizing vertical space in their existing facility by incorporating a prefabricated modular mezzanine their first question normally is, "How much do they cost?" Rarely does someone not see the need in the product and functionality; it all comes down to cost justification. This blog discusses 1) Features and Benefits of Prefabricated Construction, 2) Budgetary Costing, and 3) Guidelines to making sure a project is specified and implemented correctly.
Why a Prefabricated Mezzanine?
There are several benefits to prefabricated mezzanines:
- All components are constructed off-site and trucked to the site.This minimizes disruption to current operations.No painting, welding, or other disruptive construction processes occur on-site.
- Due to its modular design, it is scalable.Adding on to or reconfiguring a prefabricated mezzanine is relatively easy.
- The non-permanent, bolt-together nature of the construction allows for the ability to take down and move or sell.
- Prefabricated mezzanines are considered equipment for accounting, rather than permanent building structure.There are significant accounting advantages to this designation.
How Much Does a Mezzanine Cost?
This is always a very difficult question to answer. There are so many options such has size, capacity, floor decking, column spacing, existing concrete floor conditions, area labor rates, accessibility of work area, and more. In the last month of 2021 McGee quoted four mezzanines ranging in size from 220 sq ft to 2,200 sq ft. All had very similar specifications: Handrail on three sides, IBC compliant, wood floor over steel "B" decking and an access gate. The cost per square foot, delivered and installed, varied from $118 per square foot to $65 per square foot. The overall costs however do not stop there. Most mezzanines must have lighting and sprinkler added per code (bar grating decking does not negate the need for either lighting or sprinkler). One of the four mezzanines demanded concrete footers due to column loading based on design spacing. The last variable cost is permitting. It is very important that you choose a proper, experienced partner to design, build, and install your mezzanine.
Guidelines and Considerations
What are the local codes?Most jurisdictions follow IBC guidelines which are more stringent than OSHA guidelines that focus on structures not accessible by the public.
How will the Mezzanine floor level be used – storage? If so, how will product be transported to and from the mezzanine level? How will product be moved on the mezzanine – carts, pallet jack, or otherwise?Will there be offices or a personnel-driven process taking place?
What is going on underneath the mezzanine?Are there areas where columns cannot be placed?Do you have specifications on the existing concrete floor?If not, an analysis can be scheduled.
There are more questions also, including, but not limited to capacity of deck,
type of deck, deck height, clear height under decking, and access to installation area.None of these considerations should discourage you from seeking a mezzanine solution.It is my hope however that this will encourage you to team with a properly qualified, licensed contractor.McGee Storage and Handling offers no cost analysis, proposal, and preliminary drawings to explore the possibility of installing a mezzanine in your facility.
Interested in learning more about prefabricated mezzanines? Give us a call at 770-458-4346 or contact us today!
