Metal shelving units are an inexpensive alternative when you are in need of storage space. The fact that they are made of metal and hence far more durable than their wooden counterparts is complemented with the fact that these units are also a lot less expensive. The major problem that wood faces in terms of durability is its aging properties. As wood tends to absorb moisture from the air it can cause them to either expand or contract. This results in weakening of the joints and makes them less durable.
The other alternative to metal is plastic shelving units. But in comparison to metal these plastic units will not be able to take as much weight. Plastic units also cannot handle rough handling which is something that storage equipment has to tolerate.
Glass Shelving Unit
Impact resistance and durability are two things that you will not have to bother about with metal units. Depending upon the nature of its use, these metal shelving units can be made from lightweight aluminum to heavier metals that can withstand high impacts. Some of the popular shelving units made of metal are as follows:
Industrial shelving units
These units are made out of heavy duty steel and used in industries where a lot of impact tolerance is required. You wouldn't want your metal unit to break or crumble if hit by a forklift or if heavy weights are loaded on them, especially when it has been designed for industrial use.
These units are primarily of two types; Widespan and Longspan. The traditional shelf is called the Widespan while the more contemporary Widespan offers compartmentalized space.
Steel Warehouse Shelving
This type of shelving is of two types, the open metal unit and the closed metal unit. The traditional form of shelves is the open metal unit that makes provision for both front and side access while the closed metal units are ideal for more secure storage space.
Rivet metal shelving units
These are cheaper options of metal shelving units that offer great storage space and are ideal for corporate and personal use. They can be easily assembled and serve every purpose of storage.
Contrary to popular thought that metal units should be kept away from the public eye and should be put in garages or basements where no one sees them, they are emerging as great style statements. Now with the help of a metal unit you can infuse a new style to your home or office décor. Steel units can be used to give your space a contemporary and minimalist look and incorporate a sense of space in your room apart from serving its purpose of a storage unit.
The options of dressing up your metal unit are enormous. In case you feel that the metal shelving units are not fitting in with your overall décor consider spray painting them or make use of glass to style them. You can also use particle boards and use them as shelves in the metal unit by painting them the same color as the unit.