Shelving. It keeps stuff off the floor. That's it, isn't it? Surely it doesn't matter which type of shelving you choose - they all do the same thing?
Not necessarily. If you are in need of shelving, there are many factors to take into account. This is why you'll see a wide variety of options both in our shop and all over the net. A quick google search for 'shelving' will bring you a vast array of differing choices from different suppliers.
Which one is for you? Why are there so many options? The choice depends on:
- Purpose
- Environment
- Price
Purpose
What are you using the shelving for? Yes, we all know it keeps stuff off the floor. You need to identify what will be stored on your shelving – storage boxes, raw meat or fish, cooking equipment? The list is endless, but identifying the shelving’s purpose is key.
Environment
Where will you be using your shelving? Will it be on display, in a kitchen or garage, or in a cold room or freezer? Different temperatures will affect different materials of the shelving. For example, chrome wire shelving could not be used in an environment below room temperature; it would rust and become unusable.
Price
Inevitably, price will be considered in every purchase. However, the phrase “you get what you pay for” is particularly relevant when looking for shelving. Don’t put price over quality – it is important to find a balance.
Why is Aluminium shelving so popular?
Simply put, it ticks our three boxes.
A high load capacity makes it ideal for numerous purposes. For context, the shortest bay of shelving available could withstand the weight of an average motorbike on each tier, which is impressive to say the least.
One very popular feature of the Aluminium range is that it comes with removable infill panels. These are extremely handy for cleaning purposes and genuinely enhance the shelving’s look and feel. The lightweight anodised frame also makes the bays particularly easy to manoeuvre – wheels are available to make the shelving mobile as well.
A common irritation when it comes to shelving is the assembly. No matter which type you choose, the chances are it will arrive flat pack. Struggling to assemble the shelving correctly is a hassle that you simply don’t need, and Aluminium is designed with this in mind. Sturdy ‘H’ shaped uprights and a simple ‘hook and slide’ fitting system means the shelving is easy to assemble.
Another reason customers choose Aluminium shelving is its versatility. The biggest slip up made when ordering shelving is not understanding the effect the room temperature has. Certain finishes – wood, mild steel, zinc chromate, chrome wire, and painted shelving can’t be used in a cold or freezing environment.
If the shelving rusts or corrodes, it will ultimately fail. Weak or broken shelving is no use to anybody – that’s why the Aluminium finish is as frequently chosen. You need not worry about environment temperature – Aluminium is suitable to withstand temperatures from -20°C to +60°C.
Clearly, for all the features making the shelving the perfect choice, the price will be premium? Not the case. Ranging from £144.00 - £256.00, the shelving is extremely affordable.
Who buys it?
So, you know why it is so popular. But who is it popular with? There are many industries that treat the Aluminium shelving as a necessity. To name a few that the shelving is ideal for:
- Restaurants and Take-Aways
- Butchers
- Dairy Manufacturers
- Bakeries
- Pharmaceuticals
- Hotels
- Breweries
The shelving’s versatility is exemplary, and provides a storage solution that is more than just keeping your items off the floor.
An important consideration for any back or front of house facility.