When planning the layout of your workplace, you may be debating between access floors and suspended ceilings as storage and ventilation solutions. In modern office environments, there is always a need for storage space due to the various requirements of the 21st century workplace. Both suspended ceilings and raised access floors have different advantages which make them an appealing and practical option, but which is the right fit for your office? Let us compare the two to help you make a more informed decision.
Suspended ceiling
These are secondary ceilings suspended from the structural ceiling above, often referred to as dropped ceilings or false ceilings. They are constructed with large metal sections that form a grid, filled in with sound absorbent tiles. The space in between the two ceilings, known as a ceiling void, has many uses in a modern office and is often utilised for its storage space and cost effectiveness.
- Storage
With most ceiling voids ranging from 3 to 8 inches, this provides plenty of room for any wiring or cables that you may need to run throughout the building. Suspended ceilings are also suitable for lighting installation, as you are able to store cables safely and out of sight. Best of all, ceiling tiles allow for easy access should you need to replace any lighting fixtures or bulbs. - Ventilation
The space above your suspended ceiling will allow for airflow to travel throughout the building and provides the necessary space for air vents and ducts to be installed. This ensures that everything will be in place so that you can maintain a comfortable temperature in your office space. Suspended ceilings can also help to prevent heat loss during the winter months. - Fire safety
Suspended ceilings provide a suitable place to install fire safety devices, such as sprinklers and smoke detectors. They also offer significant fire resistance, helping to prevent fire from spreading to the floor above and passing quickly through your building.
Access floors
Depending on your office requirements, you may find that access floors are a suitable alternative to suspended ceilings, due to the practicality and flexibility they offer. You may find this to be a more suitable option for your workplace.
- Storage
The storage space under access floors can be more compact than a suspended ceiling, which is ideal if you are looking to save space, and still allows for plenty of room to run cables underneath. This helps to keep your floor organised and avoids any health and safety risks to your employees. - Ventilation
Access floors allow air to travel beneath them, circulating throughout your building and maintaining a constant temperature. This can prevent any IT equipment and technology from overheating whilst also keeping employees comfortable at work. - Easy access
As opposed to suspended ceilings, access floors offer superior access. There are no ladders required and no need to work at height, meaning that maintenance and repairs can be carried out simply and safely. You can just remove the tiles in the area that requires attention, and slot them back into place once complete.
When it comes to making your final decision, why not take advantage of the expertise of our team at Fieldmans Access Floors. We can answer any queries you may have about the installation process for access flooring or the benefits it can provide your workplace. To discuss your requirements, give us a call today on 020 8462 7100 or email and we would be happy to provide further details.
