Materials and finishes for raised floors

A raised floor always consists of a metal structure and modular panels . The structure is made up of adjustable feet (pillars) connected or not by beams; the panels are the "tiles" that rest on top and can be lifted to access the utility plenum.

The core of the panel can be made of calcium sulfate or high-density particleboard . Calcium sulfate is more dimensionally stable, has good fire performance, and often offers better acoustic performance; it is ideal for offices, banks, meeting rooms, and spaces where strength and comfort are required. High-density particleboard is a more economical solution, suitable for less critical environments, provided it is properly protected from humidity.

There are also panels with a metal or mixed core , designed for heavy loads (archives, utility rooms, server rooms) or environments where specific requirements, such as static electricity dissipation, are required. These systems can withstand significant concentrated loads with very limited deformation.

The top surface of the panel can be finished in different ways:

• Porcelain stoneware, glued or integrated into the panel, ideal for reception areas, entrances, and public spaces in banks and offices. Wear-resistant and easy to clean.

• HPL laminate , with a wide range of wood, concrete, stone effects or solid colors, suitable for executive environments, open spaces, meeting rooms.

• PVC/LVT or rubber , for dynamic offices, call centers, technical spaces, with good resistance and walking comfort.

• Carpet tiles or textile finishes, often coupled with panels or laid in overlapping layers, to improve acoustics and the feeling of softness underfoot.

The back of the panel is also important: coverings in galvanized steel sheet, aluminum or protective films contribute to stability, fire reaction and protection from moisture rising from the substrate.

The choice between various finishes depends on the use of the space: in a server room, load-bearing capacity, antistatic properties, and accessibility will be priorities; in a bank branch or open-plan offices, aesthetics, acoustic comfort, and ease of cleaning will be more important. In some projects, different finishes are used on the same raised system to differentiate the areas while maintaining technical continuity.

The raised floor, therefore, is not a single standard product: it is a modular system that adapts to the needs of the project, combining structural core, technical performance and surface finish in a single element.