Upside’s Access Solutions for Cold Storage Buildings Call (513) 889-2492 ORDER NOW Silvana Gold Silvana is Upside's Marketing Analyst - qualifying leads that come through the website and assisting in marketing initiatives. With experience in copywriting and a degree in Marketing, her expertise is at work. Jun 13, 2024 Estimated reading time: 4 minutes At Upside Innovations, we specialize in manufacturing high-quality aluminum access products tailored to meet unique requirements. Our loading dock stairs, stair towers, and canopy products are the perfect addition to ensure safe access in and around these buildings. Enhancing Cold Storage Buildings With the increasing demand for fresh produce, pharmaceuticals, and other perishable goods, cold storage buildings are becoming more vital than ever. Outdated cold storage buildings are also receiving improvements. These facilities require specialized environments to maintain low temperatures, ensuring the integrity and longevity of stored products. However, managing these environments also necessitates robust and reliable access solutions that can withstand harsh conditions. Why Choose Aluminum? Aluminum is an ideal material for access products in cold storage buildings for multiple reasons: Rust/Warp Free: Aluminum will never rust, warp, or rot. Making this material favorable over steel or wood. This can be crucial in cold storage environments where moisture and temperature fluctuations are common. Low Maintenance: Aluminum stair towers and loading dock stairs require minimal maintenance compared to steel alternatives, translating to lower long-term costs and fewer operational disruptions. Cost Savings: Our prefabricated solutions often come in at a lower price than steel fabrication. The products are turn-key solutions and do not require on-site welding. Upside is able to deliver across the country and install. Aluminum Stair Towers: Safe and Efficient Access Our aluminum stair towers provide safe and efficient vertical access on the interior or exterior of cold storage facilities. Designed with safety in mind, these stair towers offer: Non-Slip Surfaces: Safety is paramount in cold storage environments. Our stair treads feature non-slip surfaces to prevent accidents, even in icy or wet conditions. We also offer open-tread decking, we have a grip strut decking and bar grating decking. Both designed to allow rain and snow to pass through or create a grip for foot traffic. Compliance with Codes: All Upside products meet ADA/IBC-compliance or OSHA-compliance, ensuring peace of mind for facility or safety managers. Project Specificity: Although our products are prefabricated, our sales team quotes a configuration specific to your elevation height and footprint. Then, our engineers create project specific drawings for your approval. Aluminum Loading Dock Stairs: Streamlining Operations Loading docks are a hub at cold storage facilities, where goods are constantly moved in and out. Our aluminum loading dock stairs are designed to facilitate this critical function: Easy Access: Our stairs provide employees with easy and safe access to loading docks, improving operational efficiency and reducing the risk of accidents. Heavy Duty: Built to withstand heavy foot traffic and the rigors of daily use, our loading dock stairs are a dependable choice for busy cold storage facilities. Prefabricated: Our heavy duty loading dock stair design is manufactured to be a turn-key solution for easy install, unlike steel loading dock stairs that require welding on-site. Aluminum Walkway Canopies and Awnings: Protection from the Elements Our walkway canopies and cantilever awnings are other essential products to assist in operations of cold storage facilities: Internal Drainage: Both our walkway canopy and cantilever awning are equipped with internal drainage, no need for attaching a gutter. The walkway canopies drain through the posts and the awnings have internal drainage in the frame, using a scupper plate to redirect the water. Unique Layouts: We can achieve any length with each canopy product. The walkway canopies have a maximum width of 12’ between the posts and we can connect canopies side by side with shared posts. The cantilever awning has a maximum 5’ projection off the building using hanger rods to tie back to the building. Standard or Custom Color: Powder-coating the aluminum product allows for a clean look. Our standard colors are white or black and other custom colors can be requested. Conclusion At Upside Innovations, we are committed to providing top-quality aluminum products that enhance the safety and efficiency of cold storage buildings. Whether you need aluminum stair towers for vertical access, loading dock stairs for streamlined operations or a canopy to protect material or employees from the elements – our solutions are designed to meet the challenges of these essential facilities. As the demand for cold storage grows, you can trust Upside Innovations to deliver the access solutions you need to stay ahead. Take a look at this recent project for a cold storage facility. One of our sales representatives Brittany Dozier sold the walkway canopy pictured in the far right of the loading dock, to a facility in Georgia. Have a similar project you need to be quoted? Reach out to Brittany at bdozier@upsideinnovations.com Interior Stair Tower for Roof Access Warehouse Rooftop Stair Tower Installation Loading Dock Stair for Man Door Cantilever Awning spanning over Loading Dock Area StairsTools & Resources Types of Stairs for Commercial and Industrial Use Read More » June 7, 2022 Project Profile Dry Van Storage – The Ideal Trailer Access Ladder Solution Read More » February 21, 2025
How to Clean Aluminum Stairs Call (513) 889-2492 ORDER NOW Tracy Mikulec Tracy Mikulec, a seasoned leader in the digital marketing realm, currently serves as the Director of Digital at SixAxis, a pioneering manufacturer of industrial and commercial safety products from renowned brands like SafeRack, ErectaStep, and Upside. With a career spanning over three decades, Tracy has been at the forefront of digital innovation, ecommerce, and technology strategy. Since January 2015, Tracy has been instrumental in shaping the digital landscape at SixAxis, LLC, based in Andrews, South Carolina. His role involves leading digital strategies and overseeing technological advancements for SixAxis and its diverse portfolio of brands. Jul 31, 2022 Estimated reading time: 4 minutes Cleaning Untreated Aluminum Steps Aluminum is a light but strong material common for outdoor stair applications because it is weather-resistant. It is weather-resistant in that it doesn’t rust, but it forms a natural layer of oxide through the process called “oxidation.” Oxidation can be a baffling occurrence because it is a natural chemical reaction. Unlike corrosion on other metals, it does not weaken the aluminum but strengthens the material. This makes aluminum superior to other metals because of its inherent quality. The galvanizing process protects other metals, wherein a zinc coating envelops the base metal like iron or steel to slow down oxidation. IMPORTANT – Do not use abrasive cleaning pads on aluminum stairs or ramps Oxidation creates a protective barrier against water and rust, but it can make the aluminum less attractive over time. If you know how to clean aluminum stairs properly, it will decrease the chances of severe oxidation. Step 1: The first step is to ensure that all debris, including mud, dust, and leaves, is cleared off the steps. To do this, you must start at the top landing of the steps with a stiff-bristled broom and sweep all the debris over the side of the platform or down the steps one by one; the stringers that run along both edges of the steps may make it difficult to push the debris over the sides. The stiff-bristled broom is recommended to clean out the grooves of the step treads, but don’t try to scrub them with the broom as it might scratch the aluminum. Step 2: After sweeping the debris off the aluminum stairs, rinse it with water and a mild detergent such as dish soap. Use a generous amount of dish soap over the length of the staircase, and put a concentrated amount on tough spots. Let it sit for a couple of minutes. Next, hose off or lightly pressure wash the steps to remove the soap and dirt. If possible, it is suggested to use filtered water because unfiltered water may contain sulfur, chlorine, fluoride, and other minerals that could damage the aluminum over time. Ensure all dish soap is washed off before the steps are used because the soap and water make the aluminum slippery. Step 3: If dirt is still on the stairs, scrub the area with a towel and dish soap. Do not use steel wool or scouring pads because these materials can scratch the aluminum and give it a dull appearance. Do not use harsh cleaners like baking soda or alkali-based cleaners, as these can cause discoloration. If you want to try a new type of cleaner, test an area on the underside of the staircase to see if it discolors the aluminum. Step 4: If the aluminum has already oxidized, try spot-treating the oxidized areas with an aluminum cleaner like Aluma Kleen or Aluma Bright. Cleaning Powder-Coated Aluminum Steps Cleaning aluminum metal stairs that are powder-coated is similar, but the powder-coating is a little more delicate than the aluminum. If the aluminum steps are powder-coated, there is less chance of oxidation because the powder-coating provides an extra layer of defense. However, if the coating is scratched, oxidation spots can still form. Step 1: Brush off the steps, moving from top to bottom, with a stiff-bristled broom. Do not try to scrub the steps with the broom, as it might scratch the aluminum. Step 2: The most efficient way to clean outdoor aluminum steps with a powder-coated finish is by using filtered water at low pressure with a pressure washer. Use a mild detergent such as dish soap, and DO NOT use chlorine or harsh cleaning solutions. High water pressure and aggressive cleaning products can damage the powder-coated finish. The commercial cleaning solutions will clean the surface, but they also remove micro-layers of finish. The layer might later become hard and crack while losing its protective barrier. Step 3: As stated above, use a soft brush or cloth to clean the surface; do not use anything with stiff bristles or a scratchy pad. Step 4: To keep powder-coated steps looking nice, try a high-grade, non-abrasive car wax that contains a U.V. blocker and/or U.V. inhibitors. Be sure to wipe off residual wax because it could bake in the heat and cause permanent staining. As with any other product applied to the staircase, making a test area on the underside of the steps is recommended. How to Clean Aluminum Ramps Related Articles: Best ADA Ramp Material Know the Difference: Hot Dip Galvanizing vs. Powder Coating Cleaning Aluminum Ramps ADARamps How to Clean Aluminum Ramps Read More » December 19, 2022 StairsTools & Resources Types of Stairs for Commercial and Industrial Use Read More » June 7, 2022
Aluminum Generator Access Platform Call (513) 889-2492 ORDER NOW Tracy Mikulec Tracy Mikulec, a seasoned leader in the digital marketing realm, currently serves as the Director of Digital at SixAxis, a pioneering manufacturer of industrial and commercial safety products from renowned brands like SafeRack, ErectaStep, and Upside. With a career spanning over three decades, Tracy has been at the forefront of digital innovation, ecommerce, and technology strategy. Since January 2015, Tracy has been instrumental in shaping the digital landscape at SixAxis, LLC, based in Andrews, South Carolina. His role involves leading digital strategies and overseeing technological advancements for SixAxis and its diverse portfolio of brands. Jan 16, 2018 Estimated reading time: 2 minutes A generator access platform and the steps are important for providing safe, compliant access to the employees who provide maintenance to generators. Platforms and steps typically comply with walking-working surfaces and OSHA regulations for fixed stairways which means that there are several regulations for tread depth, tread width, riser height, platform size, guardrail height, and more. A generator access platform requires a guardrail system if the platform is more than 4′ above the ground or lower level. Still, for optimal safety, many employers choose a guardrail system regardless of the platform height. The guardrail system consists of top rails and midrails (or some other intermediate object between the top rail and platform). The top edge of the top rails must be between 39″ and 45″ above the walking surface, while the midrail must be installed at the midpoint between the walking surface and the top edge of the top rail. Stairs for generator access Platform run and generator access stairs Steps leading to generator Generator Platform installation for Northwood Ravin in Tampa, FL Generator Platform OSHA-Compliant Dimensions Typical OSHA-compliant dimensions for generator steps: 6.5″ riser height 11″ tread depth 38″ tread width 38″ clearance between handrails 36″ handrail height Read the OSHA regulations for fixed stairways to view all generator access step regulations. Upside Innovations worked on a project involving two generators that required OSHA-compliant access consisting of platforms and steps. The end-user wanted the two generators to be connected by the platform so that maintenance personnel wouldn’t have to go up and down each generator’s set of steps. Upside designed a custom solution so that employees could access both generators via a continuous platform. Get a Quote Tools & Resources Stair and Walk Surface Glossary of Terms Read More » December 1, 2022 NewsStairsTools & Resources How a Catwalk Walkways Can Improve Workflow in Your Facility Read More » June 28, 2024
Modular Classroom Access – ADA Steps and Ramps Call (513) 889-2492 ORDER NOW Tracy Mikulec Tracy Mikulec, a seasoned leader in the digital marketing realm, currently serves as the Director of Digital at SixAxis, a pioneering manufacturer of industrial and commercial safety products from renowned brands like SafeRack, ErectaStep, and Upside. With a career spanning over three decades, Tracy has been at the forefront of digital innovation, ecommerce, and technology strategy. Since January 2015, Tracy has been instrumental in shaping the digital landscape at SixAxis, LLC, based in Andrews, South Carolina. His role involves leading digital strategies and overseeing technological advancements for SixAxis and its diverse portfolio of brands. Dec 20, 2017 Estimated reading time: 1 minute Our team designs, manufactures, and installs ADA steps, ADA ramps, and canopies for modular classrooms. We work on all types of projects from single classrooms to large, modular school complexes. Get a Quick Quote Case Study: We manufactured and installed steps, ramps, and a canopy for modular classroom access in West Virginia. The modular classrooms were a temporary solution because the original school building had water damage from the 2016 flood. FEMA helped provide resources for the school, and the organization contracted Modular Genius to supply the modular classrooms. In total, the Modular Genius supplied 45,000 square feet of space. After installing the modular classrooms, Modular Genius purchased aluminum steps, ramps, and a canopy from us. Below are overhead images of the completed project. In total, we supplied 10 ADA steps, 3 ADA ramps, and a walkway canopy. We installed the steps and ramps throughout the complex, so each building had ADA access. We installed the canopy over the shared walkway, which connected three of the modular classrooms together. Ramps, Steps, and Canopy provided by Upside InnovationsOrange dot = ADA-compliant steps; Black dot = ADA-compliant ramps Check out Upside’s ADA stairs and ADA ramps. News Creating Safe & Equal Access for All with Wheelchair Accessible Ramps Read More » September 4, 2022 Project Profile ADA Accessibility Ramps at Virginia State University Read More » August 5, 2024
Reusable Aluminum Steps Tracy Mikulec Tracy Mikulec, a seasoned leader in the digital marketing realm, currently serves as the Director of Digital at SixAxis, a pioneering manufacturer of industrial and commercial safety products from renowned brands like SafeRack, ErectaStep, and Upside. With a career spanning over three decades, Tracy has been at the forefront of digital innovation, ecommerce, and technology strategy. Since January 2015, Tracy has been instrumental in shaping the digital landscape at SixAxis, LLC, based in Andrews, South Carolina. His role involves leading digital strategies and overseeing technological advancements for SixAxis and its diverse portfolio of brands. Aug 09, 2017 Estimated reading time: 4 minutes Our aluminum steps debuted at the U.S. Women’s Open Golf Tournament this July! One of our customers ordered several sets of second-story steps last year for multiple event locations in Florida. This year, they disassembled the steps, moved them to New Jersey, and set them up for the golf tournament. View the installation guide to see just how easy it is to assemble and disassemble Upside’s aluminum steps. Lay the platform upside down on the ground. Insert 4 platform legs into the corner pockets, and make sure the holes align as shown in the picture. Use (2) 1″ bolts with (2) flat washers to secure each leg to each pocket. The bolts will thread into the pre-installed rivet nuts at the ends of the platform legs. Insert 4 platform base legs into the platform legs, and make sure the holes align with the slots as shown in the picture. Use (2) 1″ bolts with (2) lock washers and (2) flat washers to secure each base leg to each platform leg at the desired height. The bolts will thread into the pre-installed rivet nuts in the base legs. This connection may need to be adjusted later in order to level the platform. Set the platform against the building just below the threshold. Use a 4′ level to determine if the platform is level in both directions. If adjustments need to be made, loosen the (2) 1″ bolts that connect the base leg to the platform leg, and telescope the base leg up or down to the appropriate height and retighten the bolts. A bolt may need to be completely removed if it runs into the end of the slot. Reinstall the bolt in another hole that will appear at the opposite end of the same slot and retighten. Locate the step connector hook and bolt it to the platform on the side where the step will be installed. As shown, the step is at the center of the platform. Consult the job-specific layout to determine where the step should be connected to the platform. Use (4) 1″ bolts with (4) flat washers and (4) flange nuts to connect the plate to the platform side through the four holes. If holes in the platform edge are missing, they will need to be drilled through with a 7/16″ drill bit. Lift the upper end of the step riser, and hook it onto the hook that was previously bolted to the platform. Insert the step guardrail posts into the upper and lower pockets on the step riser until the pre-installed rivet nuts in the posts align with the slots in the pockets. Use (8) 1″ bolts with flat washers to secure the four posts to the four pockets. Thread the bolts into the rivet nuts in the step rail posts through the slots in the upper and lower pockets on the step riser. Steps over 50″ high will have three posts per guardrail instead of two, as shown. At the top of each step, two-step keys are required to secure the step to the platform. Orient the key against the back side of the upper pockets on the step riser. Use (2) 1-1/4″ tek screws to secure the step key to the platform decking. The holes in the key should be used as a drilling guide. Suppose you want to add aluminum stairs or ramps to your home, business, or industrial space. In that case, the best way to ensure your safety and satisfaction is through tools like a ramp slope calculator or software. At Upside Innovations, we appreciate the importance of convenience and reliability – that’s why our aluminum staircases are designed for commercial and industrial use! So why take any chances when you can contact our experts now for top-of-the-line aluminum ramps? You can rest assured knowing your installation will be on point and within code. Tools & Resources Stair and Walk Surface Glossary of Terms Read More » December 1, 2022 StairsTools & Resources How to Clean Aluminum Stairs Read More » July 31, 2022
