Raised floors

US

All About Raised Floors


As the name suggests, raised floors are elevated structures above a concrete slab which create a void for channeling electrical and mechanical services. These are widely used in office spaces where the requirement to route electric or telecom cables and mechanical services is high. Floor heights can vary from 2 inches to 5 inches depending on the volume of cables beneath. This type of flooring is typically designed with a metal framework that supports the floor panels. These panels can be disguised with a variety of finishes like carpet, marble or lamination. Since raised floors are connected with high power, the tiles must contain conductive material to remove any buildup of static electricity.

Raised floors are the best choice when it comes to safe management of electrical, computer and telecommunication cables and equipment. The space beneath offers effective concealing of an extensive network of cables. The airflow is efficiently managed by use of perforated tiles, which take care of electric cables being subjected to long-term exposure to heat. Unlike normal floors, raised floors provide flexibility in terms of raising the floors as per requirement. Raised floors provide earthing by dissipating static into the floor system. These evenly distribute the load of the cables and equipment. The result is a neat look to the interior by covering all the cables underneath in an easily manageable way.

 

The raised floor industry offers many choices of panels and systems to suit any budget. The right raised floor choice for a building depends on the space in which it is being installed. The marketplace offers a selection of cooling or air distribution systems. The choice of floor panels also varies with the weight and load bearing capacity expected out of it. The choice of material for floor panels varies from wood core to heavy steel to hard concrete, generally available in 24” square pieces. These offer high performing solutions in terms of resilience, durability and aesthetic value.

Expert cleaning and maintenance of raised floors is required for safe operating conditions. Daily maintenance should be performed by dusting with a dry, lint-free mop or vacuum cleaning mats and carpets on floors. Installing mats in the entrance of rooms can avoid dirt and debris from collecting inside. Periodic maintenance requires regular inspection by expert technicians. Perforated tiles and understructure subfloor should be vacuum cleaned at least 3 times annually. It is important to keep this environment clean as airborne contamination can be unhealthy for humans too.

Consumers can choose a raised floor finishing that enhances their interior. The endless array of decorative options creates stunning floors which are totally unique. Raised floor panels can be coated with porcelain stoneware or accessorized with granite flooring to give an enriched look to any setting. From office space to home, complete design flexibility allows the craftsmen to produce striking floors that are totally distinctive and high on performance.