Time for an Office Checkup: How Long Furniture Lasts

Office furniture often goes unnoticed until it starts to show signs of wear and tear. While the initial investment in quality furnishings can boost productivity and make a powerful first impression on clients, all furniture has a lifespan. Knowing when it's time for new furnishings ensures that employees remain comfortable, the workplace looks professional, and unnecessary costs are avoided. Here's a look at some key fixtures to consider.

Office Desks

Office desks, which are foundational pieces for most workplaces, typically last between 10-15 years, in our experience. This range can vary depending on the quality of the material and the amount of use each desk endures. High-traffic environments reach the lower end of the lifespan range faster, emphasizing the need for regular inspections to ensure stability and functionality remain intact over the years.

Office Chairs

Chairs in an office setting endure the most wear and tear, given they're used more frequently and bear weight consistently. We've found that most commercial furnishings, including chairs, are designed to be replaced every 10 years. However, with regular maintenance, such as tightening screws and checking for worn-out cushioning, some chairs can outlive this average, promoting both comfort and health for their users for a more extended period.

Office Cubicles

Office cubicles are another essential component of many office layouts, offering both privacy and organization. In our experience, the materials used in cubicle walls, such as fabric panels and metal frames, can start to show wear after 10-15 years, especially in high-traffic workspaces. Additionally, hardware like connectors and brackets may loosen or degrade over time, compromising the cubicle's stability. Regularly evaluating your office cubicles for signs of damage ensures a safe and visually appealing work environment while keeping productivity high.

Cabinets

Filing cabinets and similar storage units often last longer than other types of office furniture, frequently serving their purpose for about 15-20 years, according to our experts. Since they aren't used continuously throughout the day, they generally require less frequent replacement. However, sliding mechanisms and locks can degrade over time, so it's crucial to ensure these components are in good working order to protect valuable documents and assets.

Understanding the expected lifespan of office furniture can aid businesses in planning for replacements in advance. Regular inspections and maintenance can extend the life of many items, but being proactive about updates ensures an organized and professional workspace is maintained. By knowing when to invest in new pieces, companies can continue to support optimal productivity and comfort for their employees and clients alike. Are you looking for an office refresh? Contact Wolverine Commercial Furnishings today to request a consultation.