Choosing the correct access floor…

Good day everyone! Its been far to long since I took the time to furiously type out my thoughts (rants and raves) on this computer keyboard. Thanks for clicking on this one as I do believe this is a great topic, especially if you are contemplating or know someone that is contemplating using a raised access floor system.

QUESTION: “Which access floor panel should we use?”

ANSWER: As you guys know if you have read any of my previous posts, or have seen my LinkedIn account there are TONS of manufacturers of raised access floors and a large variety of access flooring panels, from filled cementitious steel, hollow steel, calcium sulphate, concrete, porcelain, the list goes on…

So which one is right for your project?

My question is, why does it have to be one? You project could be an office setting, there would (or could) be a need for a variety of access flooring panels, you might need a laminated panel for your data center, a finished panel for your lobby or elevator area, a heavy duty panel for your walkways and a standard grade panel for your desk/office area.

Most manufacturers will offer a couple of different types of panels, typically an option for a higher loading panel and some finish options - But how do you know which ones to use? I have listed a few points to consider when thinking about your flooring choice….

• The ability to maintain an accessible plenum (under floor space) is very important for future flexibility - meaning a modular type finish option is important

• The ability to incorporate heavy duty and light duty panels in the same project (you wouldn’t want to use 2 different manufacturers)

• Some areas might be better suited for ceramic or stone, take bathrooms for example - this is a topic that comes often, choosing a correct panel for this application is very important to ensure your finishes don’t crack or break after installation

• Air tightness - this is super important if you are running a UFAD system, choosing a panel that is air-tight regardless of finish is so very important. A space could see a variety of clients, therefore a variety of finishes are possible, the system needs to maintain an air seal regardless of carpet, vinyl, tile etc.

Our claim to fame here at Cook’s Construction is that we try to provide our clients with exactly what THEY need, what’s BEST of the project and what is going to be the best for the future, not just what’s available at the time, or what is cheapest etc.

Give us a call, our team of dedicated IN-HOUSE project managers, sales team, engineers and field teams are ready, willing and able to provide every detail and option that we can.

Thanks for clicking this blog post guys, we have some pretty exciting news coming out soon - so stay-tuned!