Unique Factors That Go Into Choosing A Floor For A Cold Storage Facility
Cold storage warehousing creates some unique structural challenges -- and one of these challenges is, of course, the concrete floor. Cold storage facilities differ from many other industrial facilities in a variety of ways, all of which can be compensated for by a skilled concrete floor contractor. These are the important things to bear in mind when talking to a concrete floor contractor about your cold storage facility.
The Temperature of Various Areas in Your Storage Facility
Will your facility have IMP walls? Will you have products that arrive with ice that melts? Temperature and water will impact the type of floor that should be used throughout your storage facility. If the temperature in your storage facility will ever fluctuate due to type of product stored, it should be a consideration in the floor. Standing water from melted ice or other liquids can be a safety hazard and should planned for in advance. There are a variety of concrete floor systems that can be configured to best accommodate a facility’s particular needs.. An experienced concrete floor contractor can design the right configuration for every purpose in the facility.
The Equipment Used throughout the Facility
The type of machinery needed in your refrigerated warehouse should by all means be discussed with your concrete floor contractor in advance of floor design. Robotic machinery, automatic storage retrieval systems, forklifts, pallet riders or other types of heavy equipment require a durable floor.. If a crack occurs or a joint fails, it can cause maintenance issues with the equipment plus deteriorate the floor at a faster rate. The heavier equipment and the more frequent the traffic you have, the more floor durability matters.
The Need for Drainage and Joints Within the Facility
Does your facility need drainage areas? If so, sloping and other considerations may come into play. The amount of joints in your floor will also matter. Ideally, you want the least amount of joints possible in your floor, as joints can become impaired if not installed properly. However, you do need a certain amount of joints, otherwise the floor itself can crack. The right contractor will be able to find the correct balance, creating a floor that has the least amount of joints needed to maintain structural integrity . Drainage is also necessary in many facilities for easy cleaning. A good floor contractor will be able to install drains as needed while still ensuring that the floor remains properly reinforced.
The Racks and Other Built-Ins in the Facility
Racks and other built-ins will add weight to your warehouse floors, and consequently will be an additional consideration. Racks provide constant pressure on the floor, so unlike equipment, they are less likely to create fractures at joints. They may, however, eventually buckle an improperly designed, engineered and constructed floor if they are overburdened. Reputable designers will make sure that the loads are properly distributed and will accommodate the maximum load of your racks and built-ins.
FRICKS has the experience, knowledge and resources that cold storage facilities need to create durable, resilient concrete floors. If you're looking for floors that will be able to withstand the stresses of a cold storage warehouse, contact FRICKS for a consultation today.
