Removing and replacing an access floor

One of the advantages of an access floor is – by its very name – the fact you can access the systems and equipment stored beneath it. However, there are a number of considerations to bear in mind before you access the underfloor void.

Click here for more on range of Access Floors!

First of all, make sure you check the drawings that indicate the positions of fire barriers, underfloor trunking and services. Then, plan the most efficient way to get underneath the access floor, i.e. by removing as few panels as possible. Last but not least, make sure you remove the panels safely. You will need the correct panel lifting devices – which your access floor installation company should provide – and you will need to make sure you don't remove panels by levering with screwdrivers etc.

Lifting up carpet

It’s possible your access floor will be finished with carpet tiles, which may be glued down. You may need to lift several carpet tiles to uncover a single floor panel. A useful tip is to mark the carpet tiles and make a note the direction arrow so that you can re-lay them without difficulty.

You may also wish to mark the access floor panels if it is important to store these clearly. Once you’ve removed the first panel it is quite easy to remove other panels in any direction, but make sure you don’t dislodge headcaps or shims or damage the neoprene edge on perimeter panels. Don’t dislodge pedestals from the sub-floor, or attach trunking or pipework to them. Nor should you use pedestals as anchors for pulleys when drawing cables and similar.

Replacing the panels

Before you replace any access floor panels you should make sure the headcaps are free of debris and that locating lugs are intact and square on the pedestal. You should also vacuum the sub-floor so the immediate working area is clean.

Floor panels should be carefully lifted and replaced in their original orientation. Do not force access floor panels into position as damage could occur to the panel edge.

Let us help you

If you need any help or advice about removing or replacing your access floor, Fieldmans Access Floors Ltd is the company to call. As an independent company with over twenty years’ experience in the business, they know every aspect of access floor removal and replacement inside out. For more information, please call 0208 462 7100 or write to Enquiries@Fieldmans.com.