Floor Mount Partitions

Floor mount partitions require a solid structural foundation for proper installation and long-term stability. Key considerations include:

• A minimum 4″ thick concrete floor to securely fasten the expansion wedge anchor
• This mounting style is not suitable for installation on post-tension concrete floors, radiant heat floors, or non-reinforced wood floors
• Floor scans may be necessary to avoid damaging in-floor utilities
• Always consult with a structural engineer if you have concerns about floor suitability

Mounting bars are the primary hardware used to connect floor mount pilasters to the floor. They play a crucial role in the stability and installation of the partition system.

The mounting bar width matches the pilaster’s thickness. For example, a 1.25″ thick pilaster would use a 1.25″ wide mounting bar.

It is preferable to use pilasters at least 8″ wide in floor mount configurations, even if it means sacrificing some aesthetic preferences.

Pilasters less than 6″ wide use mounting bars with a single notch, one connecting bolt, and a 0.25″ diameter hole for a screw to help hold the bar stable. These narrow pilasters require a perpendicular component or wall for bracing on the non-bolt side.

Pilasters 6″ wide and wider use mounting bars with notches on either end and two connecting bolts. This dual-bolt configuration provides increased stability.

By carefully considering these factors related to mounting bars and pilaster width, designers and installers can ensure the proper stability and functionality of floor mount partition systems.

Floor mount partitions offer unique design opportunities. For example, the opportunity to create an open, airy feel in the restroom due to the gap between the top of the partition and the ceiling.

This mounting style is compatible with various door and panel options, allowing customized looks.

Suitable materials for this mounting style include wood veneer, plastic laminate, and compact laminate. Note that solid surface, and engineered stone are not compatible with this mounting style.

This mounting style has a low-profile aesthetic ideal for spaces with high or decorative ceilings.

For stability reasons, the maximum partition height is 70″ AFF without additional support. This limit results in less privacy compared to other full-height partitions. For example, users over 5’10” (178 cm) may be able to see over the top of the partitions. Designers should consider a different mounting style if higher privacy is needed.

Cross pilasters and brace pilasters are additional structural elements used to provide stability in certain floor mount configurations, particularly in inline alcove stalls.

Purpose

These pilasters enhance structural stability in configurations that may lack sufficient support. They are particularly useful in floor mount inline alcove stalls to reduce motion in strike pilasters.

Dimensions

Width: Cross pilasters should be at least 8″ wide. Brace pilasters should be at least 6” wide.

Height: Cross or brace pilaster height should match the height of other pilasters in the restroom.

Thickness: Cross or brace pilaster thickness should match the thickness of other pilasters in the restroom.

Installation Considerations

These pilasters attach to panels and other pilasters using the same bracket type as the rest of the pilasters in the partition.

Where cross pilasters are used, alcove clips may not needed, but additional one-ear and two-ear brackets will be required.

Design Considerations

When introducing a cross pilaster next to an ambulatory stall, care must be taken to ensure the cross pilaster does not interfere with ADA requirements.

If a stall providing a brace pilaster is an ambulatory stall, consider relocating the ambulatory stall to a different location if possible. If relocation is not possible, a cross pilaster might be a better solution to maintain ADA compliance.

By incorporating cross pilasters or brace pilasters into floor mount partition designs, architects and designers can ensure stability and functionality where there might otherwise be excessive movement or insufficient support.