Raised floor

Types of raised floor 3

The raised flooring systems, also known as access flooring, offer flexible architectural solutions for managing electrical wiring and other systems in buildings. The following are the common types of raised floors:

• Structural Raised Floors

  A structural raised floor has a grid of support beams that make it strong. This type of raised flooring is used in places that need a durable surface, like airports, shopping malls, and offices. The support beams are usually made of steel, and the floor panels can be wood, steel, or concrete. These floors can hold a lot of weight, sometimes more than 1,000 pounds per square meter.

• Non-Structural Raised Floors

  Non-structural raised floors are not as robust as structural ones because they lack support beams. They are used in places where weight support is not essential, like in homes or small offices. These raised floors are easy to install and are made of lightweight materials like particleboard or vinyl. They are good for hiding wires and pipes and are often used for DIY projects.

• Wooden Raised Floor

  A wooden raised floor is a structural raised floor made of wood. They give a warm and natural feeling and are used in theaters, churches, and historic buildings. These wooden raised floors are durable and can be solid or engineered wood. Solid wood floors are made from one piece of wood, while engineered wood floors have a wooden top layer and a plywood base.

• Raised Computer Floor

  This raised floor is specifically for computers and data centers. They help organize and hide wires and provide ventilation for the computers. The raised floor panels have cutouts for wires and air, making it easy to install and maintain the computer system. They are made from sturdy materials like steel and concrete, which can support the heavy computer equipment.

• Panelized Raised Floor

  Panelized raised flooring is a non-structural type of raised floor. It uses removable panels that fit snugly into tracks attached to the subfloor. This allows easy access to pipes and wires below when panels are taken out. They are made from wood or metal and are often used in offices and conference rooms. Installing and removing the panels is simple, making maintenance convenient.

Function and feature of raised floor

• Access to Wiring:

  Raised flooring creates a hidden space where electrical wires, internet cables, and plumbing can run. This keeps everything organized and out of sight. If companies need to add new cables later, it's easy to do without messing up the room. Also, having wires off the ground improves safety by reducing tripping hazards.

• Airflow Management:

  The gap under raised floors helps control where air goes. For rooms filled with computers, extra fans, or cooling machines, raised flooring is a solution. The open space allows cool air to circulate freely, reaching hot areas. This is especially useful in data centers that need proper air circulation to prevent overheating. By directing airflow as needed, raised flooring helps keep machines at safe temperatures and running smoothly.

• Height Flexibility:

  Another advantage of raised flooring systems is adjustable heights. Many models have removable panels or changeable legs. This allows the installer to set the floor at just the right elevation required for the room. From low to high risers, this flexibility lets companies match a raised floor system to specific needs for stability and airflow.

• Material Variety:

  Raised flooring comes in different materials suited for various environments. For office spaces, durable options like vinyl or carpet tiles withstand daily foot traffic while allowing easy access below. In more technical settings, metal panels provide strength and ventilation for computers and cooling machines. These metal surfaces are also simple to maintain.

• Enhanced Safety:

  Another advantage of raised flooring systems is adjustable heights. Many models have removable panels or changeable legs. This allows the installer to set the floor at just the right elevation required for the room. From low to high risers, this flexibility lets companies match a raised floor system to specific needs for stability and airflow.

Scenarios of Raised Floor

Below are some scenarios where raised flooring systems are extensively used.

• Data centers

  Most importantly, raised flooring is used in data centers. This is because computer servers generate a lot of heat. They need cooling to function efficiently. Raised flooring creates a perfect space for air circulation. The cool air from HVAC systems is pumped through the tiles. It then rises up to cool the servers. This system is known as airflow management. It helps to regulate temperatures and prevent overheating. With the right airflow, computers can operate optimally. Additionally, raised floors allow room for electrical wiring. They keep essential cables organized and out of the way. This reduces clutter and prevents accidents. Overall, raised flooring improves data center efficiency and safety.

• Commercial buildings

  Raised flooring is also common in offices and other commercial buildings. It provides a flexible layout design. This means that office components can be rearranged easily. Removable floor tiles allow for quick changes without permanent alterations. This is ideal for modern businesses that need to stay dynamic. For instance, periodic team expansions or downsizing. With a raised floor, integrating new office technology is hassle-free. Cables for computers, printers, and other devices can be installed through the space. This keeps the work environment clean and free from tripping hazards.

• Laboratories and clean rooms

  Clean rooms and labs require a sterile environment. This is to ensure that experiments are not contaminated. Raised flooring systems are used here too. They create an environment without germs. The tiles are often made of anti-microbial material. They can be removed and cleaned easily. This prevents the spread of bacteria. Moreover, raised floors help in air circulation. They support the HVAC system in maintaining a controlled environment. Proper air filtration and regulation are important in clean rooms. For labs, a stable temperature is needed for certain experiments. Raised flooring provides these solutions.

• Healthcare facilities

  Hospitals and clinics use elevated floors for various reasons. First, they provide a clean, sterile environment. The tiles are usually anti-microbial. They prevent the spread of germs among patients and doctors. Additionally, raised flooring systems allow for the integration of medical devices. For instance, ECG monitors and IV drip units. They ensure that the necessary cables are connected without any hazards. Further, hospitals have patients with limited mobility. These patients may require surgical or emergency care. A raised floor can be designed with ramps. This makes it easy for wheelchairs to access different areas.

How to Choose Raised Floor

Considering factors such as material, purpose, and environmental conditions will help buyers choose the right raised flooring panels for their needs. Here is a comprehensive guide for business owners looking to purchase raised floors:

• Purpose

  The primary reason for installing a raised floor significantly affects design and construction choices. Data centers and server rooms require robust, well-ventilated, and easily accessible floors for wiring and cooling systems. In contrast, commercial buildings prioritize aesthetics and comfort, necessitating attractive, durable, and easy-to-maintain raised flooring. Industrial sites need resilient, non-slip, and easy-to-repair surfaces, while residential applications focus on comfort, insulation, and elegance. Therefore, understanding the primary purpose of a raised floor system is vital when selecting the most suitable material and design.

• Location

  The location where a raised floor is to be installed significantly influences the choice of materials and design. In high-humidity environments, opt for moisture-resistant materials to prevent mold and deterioration. For areas exposed to sunlight, choose UV-resistant materials to prevent fading and damage. Locations subject to extreme temperatures require materials with good insulation properties or the ability to withstand temperature changes. If the raised floor is to be installed outdoors, select durable, weather-resistant materials to ensure longevity. Alternatively, if it's intended for indoor use, prioritize aesthetics and comfort in the choice of materials. Therefore, always consider the location's specific conditions when choosing materials for a raised flooring system.

• Materials

  The choice of materials is a primary consideration when selecting a raised floor system. Metal materials, mainly galvanized steel, and aluminum, are widely used in raised floor construction due to their durability and resistance to corrosion and moisture. Steel and aluminum panels can support heavy loads and withstand wear and tear, making them ideal for commercial and industrial applications. Metal panels are also fire-resistant, an essential factor in building code compliance. Additionally, metal panels are often customizable, allowing for color and finish options to meet aesthetic requirements. Metal panels provide a long-lasting, low-maintenance, and safe solution for various raised floor applications.

raised floor_3 Q&A

Q: What is an elevated flooring system?

A: A raised flooring system is a flooring solution that consists of a network of pedestals and stringers that supports floor panels, creating an airspace above the subfloor.

Q: What are the benefits of a raised flooring system?

A: Elevated flooring systems provide numerous advantages, including flexibility in data and power cable management, easy accessibility for maintenance, improved air circulation, and better thermal regulation.

Q: Is elevated flooring a practical solution for all types of spaces?

A: Raised flooring is versatile and can be used in various spaces, including commercial buildings, offices, data centers, and IT rooms. It is also applicable in environments where cable management, air circulation, and temperature regulation are essential.

Q: What are the common materials used in raised flooring panels?

A: Raised flooring panels are typically made of chipboard, steel, and calcium sulfate. Chipboard panels are commonly used in office spaces, while steel panels offer durability and load-bearing capacity. Calcium sulfate panels provide stability and are suitable for heavy equipment.

Q: Can elevated flooring be installed in homes?

A: While raised flooring is more common in commercial and industrial spaces, it can also be installed in residential spaces. For instance, elevated flooring can be used in home offices or areas where cable management and air circulation are required.