Types of material for shelving
Chipboard
Plain chipboard – non laminated chipboard is the cheapest and weakest material for sturdy shelving and is generally considered unsuitable for shelving as the finish is poor.
Laminated chipboard is cheaper than solid timber and comes in a number of different types of veneer. It is not as strong as solid timber and will tend to sag except under a very light load. It is best to use 12mm chipboard as a minimum and support the shelf at no greater than 300mm centres for all but the lightest of loads. An alternative is to use 18mm chipboard with supports no greater than 700mm apart.
Block-board
This type of material is stronger than chipboard and is less likely to sag. It is easy to work with and can be finished using paint; the edges will probably need to be covered with a trim to hide the different strips. Use 18mm thickness as a minimum and support the shelf at no greater than 700mm centres for all but the lightest of loads.
Plywood
Plywood is stronger than laminated chipboard and this makes it less likely to sag. It is easy to work with and can be given finishing touches using paint; the edges will probably need to be covered with a trim to hide the different layers that make up the plywood. It is a good idea to use 18mm thickness as a minimum and support the shelf at no greater than 700mm centres for all but the lightest of loads.
Choosing the right material for your specific requirements is essential in getting your shelving act off the ground.
Tags: Shelf Storage, shelving, shelving materials, storage solutions