Maintenance

Maintenance and cleaning of a raised floor

The raised floor is made up of many removable elements; in particular the panels that constitute the walking surface lean against each other; the stability of the product must therefore be safeguarded by following some simple maintenance rules:

  • Always use lifting trolleys to move large loads, placing rigid systems (boards or plates) between panels and wheels, in order to distribute the loads.
  • Having to disassemble several panels, it is advisable to avoid the formation of “islands” or long “channels”, removing only the minimum amount necessary to reach the point of intervention and restoring the plan step by step until the operation is completed.
  • Be careful not to damage or move the seals of the cross pieces and supports; if necessary, replace it.
  • The removal and installation of the panels must be carried out using the appropriate lifting tools. Pay particular attention to the removal of panels containing accessories (grids, electrical distribution, etc.) in order not to damage the connections.

In case of removal of non-whole panels, care must be taken to reposition them in their original position. Regular and appropriate cleaning is an important factor in maintaining the characteristics of the raised floor:

  • Do not use water or liquid detergents directly on the raised floor; use a damp and well wrung cloth and pay close attention to the electrical and telephone distribution systems; do not use water for cleaning under the floor.
  • Do not use alkaline detergents, soda, soaps, solvents.
  • Do not use pumice, glass paper, steel wool, various abrasives.
  • Having to use waxes or other treatments, before proceeding on the entire surface, it is advisable to perform a preliminary test on a limited area of ​​the raised floor.
  • When the floor has particular electrical characteristics, remember that synthetic waxes are generally electrically insulating.

During cleaning it is necessary to pay particular attention to water: if used in improper quantities and not collected immediately, it could penetrate into the cavity, passing through the various openings (for example those for power sockets, sockets for fire extinguishers, connections for vacuum cleaners, etc.) and cause damage to the proper functioning of the underlying systems.

The infiltration of water could then cause the creation of mold and accumulations of moisture which, over time, could also damage the metal structures and panels. In addition to water, all cleaning products containing substances such as resin or wax that can form an insulating film must also be avoided, which could prevent electrostatic discharge to the detriment of the most sensitive equipment.

It should be remembered that, depending on the type of coating adopted, there are specific cleaning products and relative technical data sheets.

Normally no maintenance contracts are stipulated with the manufacturers or distributors of raised floors. This, both in the case of ordinary and extraordinary maintenance, is entrusted to the cleaning company of the client.