A Guide to Laboratory Modular Storage Management

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A Guide to Laboratory Modular Storage Management

This guide is for materials managers, lab supervisors, and facilities planners who manage laboratory inventory. Many labs struggle with cluttered spaces, expired supplies, and inefficient workflows. These issues can increase costs and create safety risks.

A smart laboratory modular storage management program uses a system of flexible components. These include mobile shelves, adjustable racks, and specialized carts. Together, they create an organized and adaptable storage strategy that saves space and improves daily operations.

What is Laboratory Modular Storage?

Laboratory modular storage is a system that uses interchangeable parts to organize supplies, samples, and equipment. Unlike fixed casework or traditional shelving, modular components can be easily reconfigured. This adaptability allows labs to change their storage layouts as research needs or inventory levels change.

The core components of this system are high-density mobile shelving, adjustable rack systems, sterile storage units, and medical lab carts. By combining these elements, a facility can create a tailored solution that maximizes space, improves workflow efficiency, and supports safety and compliance standards.

A high-density mobile shelving aisle in a hospital supply room, filled with medical supplies in organized bins.
High-density mobile shelving can double the storage capacity of a room by eliminating fixed aisles.

5 Steps to Plan Your Modular Storage System

Implementing an effective modular storage system requires careful planning. Following a structured process ensures the final solution meets the specific needs of your laboratory or hospital. This five-step checklist will guide you from initial assessment to final workflow design.

Step 1: Document Current Inventory and Pain Points

Before making any changes, you must understand your current situation. Create a detailed list of all items in storage. Note their size, quantity, and any special requirements like temperature control or sterility. More importantly, talk to your team to identify the biggest problems with the current setup. Common issues include:

  • Time wasted searching for supplies.
  • Frequent stock-outs of critical items.
  • Expired products found due to poor stock rotation.
  • Cluttered workspaces that create safety hazards.

Step 2: Measure Rooms, Aisles, and Clearances

Accurate measurements are critical. Measure the length, width, and ceiling height of each storage area. Note the location of all permanent fixtures, such as support columns, doorways, light switches, and ventilation ducts. Remember to plan for clear aisle space that allows staff and carts to move safely and easily.

Step 3: Segment Storage Needs by Department

Different departments have different needs. A pathology lab’s requirements are very different from those of a central supply unit. Group your inventory based on which department uses it, how often it is accessed, and any special handling it requires. High-use consumables should be stored at the point of use, while bulk supplies can be housed in high-density systems.

Step 4: Select the Right Mix of Storage Components

Once you understand your inventory and space, you can choose the right hardware. Most effective systems use a combination of storage types. Consider a mix of modular storage management components to create a complete solution.

  • Mobile Shelves: Use for high-density storage of bulk supplies or archives.
  • Static Racks: Best for point-of-use storage where quick access and visibility are key.
  • Lab Carts: Ideal for bringing supplies directly to workstations or patient care areas.

Step 5: Plan Labeling, Binning, and Restocking Workflows

A great storage system can fail without clear operational procedures. Design a consistent labeling system for every shelf, bin, and drawer. Map out the restocking process, including who monitors stock levels and how new inventory is added to ensure a First-In, First-Out (FIFO) rotation. Documenting these workflows is essential for long-term success.

Core Components of a Modular Storage Program

A successful laboratory storage strategy relies on a few key components. Each piece serves a specific purpose, and together they create a flexible and efficient system. Understanding these building blocks will help you design a solution tailored to your lab’s unique challenges.

Medical Inventory Mobile Shelves

If your lab is short on space, medical inventory mobile shelves are an excellent solution. These high-density systems are mounted on floor tracks, allowing you to slide units together and open an aisle only where you need it. This design can double a room’s storage capacity by eliminating wasted aisle space. Mobile shelving is ideal for central supply rooms, archives, and bulk pharmacy storage. For detailed specifications, you can download the medical inventory mobile shelves spec sheet.

Medical inventory mobile shelving system with color coded bins in a hospital supply room.
Mobile modular shelves keep medical supplies organized and easy to access in tight rooms.

Modular Rack Systems

While mobile shelves maximize density, hospital modular rack systems offer maximum flexibility. These static units feature slotted posts that allow shelves, baskets, and bins to be adjusted to any height. This adaptability is perfect for labs with changing inventory. The open design of these racks also makes it easy to conduct quick visual inventory checks and identify low stock levels.

Hospital Sterile Storage Racks

Storing sterile instruments and supplies requires specialized equipment. A hospital sterile storage rack is designed specifically for this purpose. Typically made from stainless steel or chrome wire, these racks are easy to clean and promote air circulation. This is vital for maintaining sterility and supporting infection control protocols in operating rooms, sterile processing departments, and cleanrooms.

Medical Lab Carts

Modular storage is not limited to walls and closets. Medical lab carts bring organized storage directly to the point of care. These mobile workstations use the same bins and dividers as static racks, creating a consistent system throughout the facility. Carts are essential for tasks like phlebotomy rounds and emergency response, as they reduce staff travel time and improve workflow efficiency.

A medical lab cart with multiple drawers and bins for organizing and transporting supplies.
Medical lab carts bring modular, mobile storage to the point of care for improved workflow.

Comparing Laboratory Storage Options

Choosing the right storage solution depends on your specific needs. This table compares common options to help you decide which mix is best for your facility, balancing space savings, flexibility, and suitability for different environments.

Storage Type Best Use Cases Space Savings Potential Flexibility and Reconfiguration Suitability for Sterile Environments
Mobile Shelving High-density archives, bulk supplies, central storerooms. Very High Low Moderate
Modular Racks Point-of-use supplies, procedure rooms, frequently used items. Moderate Very High High
Wire Shelving General supplies, sterile storage, areas needing good airflow. Low High Very High
Traditional Casework Fixed lab benches, permanent installations, chemical storage. Very Low Very Low Low

Decision Scenarios for Modular Storage

The ideal mix of modular components changes based on the project. Here are a few common scenarios that show how to apply these storage principles to solve real-world challenges.

Scenario 1: New Hospital or Lab Construction

A new build offers the chance to establish a unified storage standard from the start. Use high-density mobile shelving in the central supply to maximize bulk storage. Install static modular racks and bins in department closets for flexible point-of-use access. Equip clinical areas with medical lab carts that use the same bin system for consistency.

Scenario 2: Renovation of a Crowded Central Supply Room

For an existing, cramped supply room, the goal is to increase capacity without expanding the footprint. A high-density mobile shelving system is the best solution. It can often double storage capacity in the same room, freeing up floor space for staging or receiving.

Scenario 3: Department-Level Projects

Different departments have unique needs. In a surgery department, stainless steel sterile storage racks are essential for infection control. In pathology, mobile shelving is perfect for archiving slides, while adjustable racks near workstations hold active supplies. An emergency department benefits from a mix of modular racks and exchange carts for rapid restocking.

Scenario 4: Satellite Labs or Clinics

Small clinics need compact, efficient storage. A combination of wall-mounted modular racks and a few mobile lab carts is often the best fit. This approach utilizes vertical space, keeps the floor clear, and makes supplies mobile for use in different exam rooms.

A detailed view of a modular storage bin system with clear dividers and labels.
Modular bins and dividers can be configured to organize supplies of any size.

Integrating Storage with Lab Operations

A well-designed storage system does more than just hold items. It becomes an active part of your daily workflow, improving efficiency and safety across the board.

First-In, First-Out (FIFO) Inventory Control

Modular systems with clear bins and open shelves make it easy to see inventory. This visibility naturally supports First-In, First-Out (FIFO) stock rotation. Staff can easily access older items first, which reduces waste from expired supplies and saves money.

Reducing Expired Items and Stock-Outs

Better organization leads to better inventory control. When supplies are easy to see and count, staff can more accurately track stock levels. This proactive approach helps prevent both costly overstocking and disruptive stock-outs of critical items.

Supporting Infection Prevention

Storage materials play a key role in infection control. Modular components made from non-porous materials like polymer and powder-coated steel are easy to clean and disinfect. Sterile storage racks with open wire designs promote air circulation, helping to keep sterile packs dry and compliant with health standards.

Maintenance and Lifecycle Management

Proper maintenance ensures your storage system remains safe and reliable for years. A simple schedule for cleaning, inspection, and planning will protect your investment and prevent downtime.

Cleaning and Disinfection

Regular cleaning is essential in any lab. Use mild detergents for routine cleaning of shelves, bins, and carts. For disinfection, always consult your facility’s Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) department and the product’s Safety Data Sheet (SDS) to ensure you use approved cleaning agents that will not damage surfaces.

Inspection Schedule

Periodically inspect all moving parts. Check the wheels on carts and the tracks on mobile shelving systems for wear and debris. Ensure all locking mechanisms are functioning correctly. A quarterly or semi-annual inspection can catch small problems before they become serious issues.

Planning for Expansion

One of the greatest benefits of modular storage is its adaptability. As your lab grows or changes, shelves can be readjusted, bins can be reconfigured, and new units can be added easily. Planning for future changes ensures your storage system can evolve with your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose between mobile shelves and static racks?

Choose mobile shelving for high-density storage of items you do not need to access constantly, such as archives or bulk supplies. Choose static racks for frequently used items at the point of care, where quick visibility and access are most important.

What are the typical lead times and installation timelines?

Lead times vary by product. Standard racks and carts may ship in a few days. Larger projects like mobile shelving systems typically require 4 to 10 weeks for manufacturing after design approval. We can provide current timelines with a quote.

What is the weight capacity of shelves and baskets?

Weight capacity depends on the specific product. Standard wire shelves often hold 600-800 lbs, while heavy-duty solid shelves can support 1,200 lbs or more. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure safety.

How do modular systems support audits and regulatory requirements?

The high visibility of modular systems simplifies audits. It is easy for auditors to verify lot numbers and expiration dates. The cleanable surfaces and specialized sterile racks also help demonstrate compliance with infection control standards.

Are these systems compatible with barcoding or RFID?

Yes. The flat surfaces and standardized bins are perfect for applying barcode labels. Many facilities integrate these systems with RFID technology to automate inventory tracking for high-value items.

How much space can I save with mobile shelving?

By converting stationary aisles into usable storage, mobile shelving systems can increase storage capacity by 50% to 100% within the same room footprint. This reclaims valuable floor space for other critical functions.

Conclusion: A Smarter Approach to Laboratory Storage

Effective laboratory modular storage management is a strategic advantage. By moving beyond traditional, fixed shelving, labs can build adaptable systems that save space, improve inventory control, and support safer, more efficient workflows. A well-planned modular system provides a strong return on investment by reducing waste and freeing up staff time.

Labs USA can help you design the right storage solution. We offer design support, layout reviews, and a wide selection of products, including quick ship options. Our team can help you find the best mix of components to meet your specific needs.

Ready to improve your lab’s efficiency? Compare modular storage options and see how a new system can transform your space. To get started on your project, request a quote today.

Contact Labs USA

If you are planning a new project or need help optimizing your current storage, our team is ready to assist. We work with hospitals and laboratories across the United States to plan, budget, and implement effective modular storage solutions.

To discuss your upcoming project or get expert advice, please visit the Labs USA contact page to get in touch with one of our specialists.

Laboratory Wood Casework: How It Compares to Steel and Specialty Options

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Laboratory wood casework offers a distinct combination of aesthetics, acoustic performance, and cost-effectiveness for many lab environments. While steel is often considered the default, understanding where wood fits helps lab managers and specifiers make smarter decisions. For teaching labs, dry research areas, and instrument rooms, wood provides a durable and appealing alternative to metal or plastic systems, balancing performance with budget and design goals. Explore our full range of lab casework to see all available configurations.

Casework Comparison Snapshot

  • Choose Wood Casework for teaching labs, dry research spaces, instrument rooms, and office areas where aesthetics, noise reduction, and budget are key factors. It provides good performance in environments with light chemical and moisture exposure.

  • Choose Steel or Stainless Steel for wet labs, corrosive environments, or sterile spaces requiring frequent washdowns and harsh disinfection. Steel offers superior durability, while stainless steel provides the ultimate chemical and moisture resistance.

  • Choose Specialty Plastics or Phenolic Frames for areas with extreme humidity or constant exposure to a wide range of harsh chemicals where a non-metallic solution is preferred.

  • For detailed material criteria, review our casework specifications.

How to Choose Laboratory Casework in 5 Checks

Selecting the right casework material is a critical decision that impacts lab safety, workflow, and long-term budget. This five-step checklist provides a framework to match the material to the real-world demands of your facility.

1. Chemical and Disinfectant Exposure

First, identify all chemicals, solvents, and disinfectants used regularly. The type and frequency of exposure are the most important factors in your decision.

  • Light Exposure: For mild acids, bases, and standard cleaners, wood casework with a factory-applied chemical-resistant finish is a suitable and cost-effective choice.

  • Moderate to Heavy Exposure: If protocols involve frequent use of harsh solvents or aggressive disinfectants, painted steel provides a more durable surface.

  • Constant Harsh Exposure: For environments with continuous contact with corrosive agents, stainless steel or specialty phenolic casework is necessary.

Remember that the work surface takes the most abuse. Pairing wood base cabinets with durable phenolic work surfaces is a common strategy to enhance durability where it matters most.

2. Humidity and Moisture Control

Assess the ambient moisture conditions in your lab. Wood is more sensitive to humidity changes than steel or composite materials.

While modern wood casework performs well in labs with stable HVAC systems, it is not suitable for high-humidity areas, spaces around sinks with frequent splashes, or rooms requiring regular washdowns. In these cases, painted steel, stainless steel, or phenolic resin is the correct choice. The importance of phenolic resins is clear in these environments, as they are completely immune to moisture damage.

3. Impact, Abrasion, and Noise Considerations

Consider the physical demands of your lab. Will heavy carts bump into cabinets? How much noise can your workspace tolerate?

  • Noise Profile: Wood naturally dampens sound, creating a quieter work environment. This is a significant advantage in instrument rooms or open-plan labs where focus is essential.

  • Impact Resistance: Steel is very durable but its painted finish can chip, exposing the metal to potential rust. Wood is often more forgiving with minor impacts and is easier to repair cosmetically.

4. Flexibility and Reconfiguration Needs

Think about your lab's future. If you anticipate changes in workflow, equipment, or layout, choose a system that can adapt.

Traditional, fixed casework offers maximum stability but locks you into a single configuration. For labs that require agility, reconfigurable wood benches and mobile cabinets provide the flexibility to change layouts easily without major construction.

5. Budget, Lead Time, and Aesthetic Goals

Finally, align your technical requirements with project constraints. Wood casework generally has a lower upfront cost than stainless steel or phenolic systems.

From a design perspective, wood offers a warmer, less clinical appearance, which is often preferred in educational and some research settings. Lead times vary by material and customization, so confirm availability early in the planning phase to align with your project timeline.

Side-by-Side Analysis: Wood vs. Steel vs. Stainless vs. Specialty

Each casework material offers a unique profile of strengths and limitations. This direct comparison helps clarify which option best fits your lab's specific application, budget, and performance needs.

Wood Casework

  • What It Is: Cabinets and benches constructed from hardwood veneer plywood or industrial-grade particleboard, protected by a factory-applied, chemical-resistant UV finish.

  • Top Strengths: Excellent aesthetics, natural sound dampening, cost-effective, and easily repairable for minor cosmetic damage.

  • Limits: Not suitable for high-moisture, corrosive, or sterile environments requiring frequent washdowns. Performance depends heavily on the integrity of the finish.

  • Best Environments: Teaching labs, dry research labs, physics labs, instrument rooms, and office areas within a lab suite.

  • Maintenance: Clean with mild detergents. Avoid abrasive cleaners and wipe up all spills promptly to protect the finish.

  • Cost & Lead Time: Generally the most budget-friendly option with competitive lead times for standard configurations.

  • Choose this if… you need a functional, quiet, and visually appealing solution for a dry lab environment on a controlled budget.

Painted Steel Casework

  • What It Is: Heavy-gauge steel, typically fully welded for strength, with a durable, baked-on powder-coat epoxy paint finish.

  • Top Strengths: High durability, excellent structural strength, very good chemical resistance, and an easy-to-clean, non-porous surface.

  • Limits: The painted finish can be chipped or scratched, exposing the underlying steel to rust. It can be noisy (clanging drawers and doors).

  • Best Environments: General chemistry labs, industrial R&D facilities, and any high-traffic area requiring robust, long-lasting furniture.

  • Maintenance: Inspect regularly for deep scratches and touch them up to prevent corrosion. Clean with standard lab-grade disinfectants.

  • Cost & Lead Time: Mid-range cost, typically more than wood but less than stainless steel. Lead times can vary.

  • Choose this if… your priority is durability and chemical resistance for a general-purpose lab.

Stainless Steel Casework

  • What It Is: Casework constructed from Type 304 or Type 316 stainless steel with welded and polished seams for a seamless, non-porous surface.

  • Top Strengths: The highest level of corrosion, moisture, and heat resistance. It is the standard for sterile and hygienic applications.

  • Limits: The highest initial cost. It can be dented or scratched and tends to show fingerprints.

  • Best Environments: Cleanrooms, pharmaceutical labs, vivariums, biological labs, and any facility requiring aggressive, frequent washdowns.

  • Maintenance: Can be cleaned with nearly any harsh disinfectant or sterilizing agent. Use non-abrasive cleaners to avoid scratching.

  • Cost & Lead Time: The most expensive option, often with longer lead times due to specialized fabrication.

  • Choose this if… sterility, corrosion resistance, and cleanability are non-negotiable and budget is a secondary concern.

Specialty Plastics or Phenolic Frames

  • What It Is: Casework built from solid phenolic resin, a composite material created by fusing layers of resin-saturated paper under high heat and pressure.

  • Top Strengths: Completely waterproof and immune to a very broad range of chemicals, acids, and solvents. Will not delaminate, swell, or corrode.

  • Limits: Higher cost than wood or painted steel. May have lower load-bearing capacity compared to fully welded steel frames.

  • Best Environments: Highly corrosive labs, high-humidity rooms, and applications where guaranteed moisture protection is essential.

  • Maintenance: Extremely low maintenance. Can be cleaned with harsh chemicals without risk of damage.

  • Cost & Lead Time: A premium price point, higher than painted steel but sometimes competitive with stainless steel.

  • Choose this if… you need absolute protection against moisture and a wide array of chemicals in a non-metallic form.

You can find more detailed information on all casework configurations to compare these options further.

HTML Comparison Table

Feature Wood Painted Steel Stainless Steel Specialty Phenolic/Plastics
Chemical Resistance Good (Finish-Dependent) Very Good Excellent Excellent
Moisture Resistance Poor Good Excellent Excellent
Cleanability Good Excellent Excellent Excellent
Impact and Noise Excellent (Quiet) Good (Noisy) Fair (Dents) Very Good (Quiet)
Flexibility Excellent Good Fair Good
Typical Use Cases Teaching Labs, Instrument Rooms, Dry Research General Chemistry, Industrial R&D Cleanrooms, Sterile Labs, Washdown Areas High Humidity, Corrosive Environments
Approx. Cost Tier $ $$ $$$$ $$$
Notes Warm aesthetic, easy to repair cosmetically. Workhorse durability, finish can chip. Ultimate corrosion resistance, highest cost. Completely waterproof, non-metallic.

Where Wood Shines: Ideal Applications

Wood casework is a strategic choice in many modern laboratories where its unique advantages align with the facility's goals.

Teaching Labs

In educational settings, wood creates a warmer, more inviting atmosphere than steel. Its lower cost is also a significant benefit for institutions with limited budgets. The durable finish is sufficient for the light chemical use typical in teaching environments.

Offices within Labs

For integrated lab and office spaces, wood provides a seamless design transition, creating a cohesive and less clinical work environment that promotes collaboration.

Dry Research and Instrument Rooms

For physics, electronics, and instrumentation labs, wood is an excellent choice. Its natural sound-dampening qualities help reduce ambient noise from equipment, creating a quieter and more focused atmosphere for precise work. This is especially true for facilities using modular wood workspaces for reconfigurable layouts.

Spaces Where Acoustics and Aesthetics Matter

When the goal is to create a professional, comfortable, and quiet workspace, the aesthetic warmth and noise-absorbing properties of wood make it a superior choice over metal alternatives.

When to Step Up from Wood

Wood casework has its limits. In certain demanding environments, upgrading to steel or specialty materials is essential for safety, compliance, and longevity.

Choose painted steel, stainless steel, or phenolic frames for:

  • Corrosive Environments: Where strong acids, bases, or solvents are used frequently.

  • Frequent Harsh Disinfectants: If protocols require daily use of aggressive cleaning agents that could degrade a wood finish over time. For worktops that must handle this abuse, phenolic work surfaces are a great choice.

  • High Humidity or Washdown Rooms: Any area with constant moisture will cause wood to fail. Stainless steel and phenolic are the best choices here due to the importance of phenolic resins in wet applications.

Specifying Wood Casework

Proper specification is key to ensuring performance and longevity. For architects, lab planners, and facility managers, focusing on the right details is crucial.

Key specification points include:

  • Substrate and Veneer: Specify hardwood veneer plywood or industrial-grade particleboard for stability.

  • Finish System: Mandate a factory-applied, multi-layer, chemical-resistant UV finish for protection.

  • Edge Banding: Require high-quality, durable edge banding to seal the core from moisture.

  • Hardware Quality: Specify heavy-duty, full-extension drawer slides and institutional-grade hinges.

  • Drawer Load Ratings: Ensure drawers are rated for the anticipated weight of lab equipment and supplies.

  • Specialty Units: Include details for sink bases with moisture-resistant properties, service voids for plumbing and wiring, and appropriate seismic anchoring where required.

For complete technical guidance, refer to our detailed spec guidelines. Our full line of wood casework options meets these stringent requirements.

Integration with Benches and Tops

Wood base cabinets are often paired with different benching systems and work surfaces to create a tailored solution.

Wood bases can be integrated into reconfigurable wood benches that allow for easy layout changes. This modular approach provides long-term flexibility.

For work surfaces, pairing wood bases with high-performance tops is a smart strategy:

  • Phenolic Resin: The top choice for chemical and disinfectant resistance. Pair with wood bases for a durable yet cost-effective workstation.

  • High-Pressure Laminate (HPL): A budget-friendly option for dry labs, write-up stations, and areas with very light chemical exposure.

This hybrid approach allows you to invest in performance where it is most needed—on the worktop—while gaining the benefits of wood for the base lab casework.

Decision Scenarios: Mini Use-Case Guides

Here are five common scenarios to help guide your decision:

  1. A high school teaching lab with light chemical use.

    • Decision: Wood bases with HPL or phenolic tops. This balances budget, durability, and provides a warm, inviting learning environment.

  2. A mixed office and lab suite needing a quiet, professional finish.

    • Decision: Wood casework throughout. This creates a cohesive aesthetic and the sound-dampening properties of wood reduce workplace noise.

  3. An industrial QC lab with a corrosive environment and frequent washdowns.

    • Decision: Stainless steel casework. This is a non-negotiable choice for safety and longevity in such a harsh environment.

  4. A dry instrument room with equipment that is frequently reconfigured.

    • Decision: Modular wood workspaces on mobile frames. This provides maximum flexibility to adapt the layout as needs change.

  5. A biosafety lab with constant use of harsh disinfectants.

    • Decision: Consider painted steel or phenolic frames with solid phenolic tops. These materials can withstand aggressive cleaning protocols without degrading.

Maintenance and Lifecycle

Proper maintenance ensures your wood casework lasts for decades.

  • Cleaning: Use mild, non-abrasive detergents compatible with the wood finish. Always refer to EHS guidelines for approved cleaning agents.

  • Humidity Control: Maintain a stable indoor climate with a modern HVAC system to prevent wood from swelling or shrinking.

  • Repairs: Minor scratches or dings in the finish can often be touched up, extending the cosmetic life of the cabinets.

  • Hardware Checks: Periodically inspect and tighten hinges and drawer slides to ensure proper function.

  • Replacement Triggers: Consider replacement if there is significant damage to the substrate from moisture or chemical exposure, or if hardware is failing beyond repair.

Consult our casework specifications for more on material care.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is laboratory wood casework durable enough for my lab?
Yes, for the right application. It is engineered with a high-density core and a chemical-resistant UV finish to withstand the demands of teaching, dry research, and instrument labs. It is not intended for highly corrosive or wet environments.

2. How does wood handle daily disinfecting?
It holds up well to standard, non-abrasive lab disinfectants. The chemical-resistant finish protects the wood, but harsh agents like bleach or abrasive cleaners should be avoided. Always wipe surfaces dry after cleaning.

3. Can I pair wood bases with phenolic worktops?
Absolutely. This is a very common and cost-effective combination. It provides the superior chemical resistance of phenolic on the work surface while retaining the aesthetic and acoustic benefits of wood for the base cabinets.

4. What about humidity and long-term stability?
In labs with stable HVAC systems, modern wood casework is very stable. The core materials and sealed edges are designed to resist typical ambient moisture changes. However, it is not suitable for high-humidity rooms or areas subject to washdowns.

5. Can wood be part of a modular lab plan?
Yes. Wood is an excellent material for flexible lab designs. Systems featuring modular wood workspaces allow labs to adapt layouts easily as research needs evolve.

6. How do lead times for wood casework compare to steel?
Lead times are generally comparable for standard configurations. Highly customized steel or stainless steel systems often have longer lead times. Always confirm current production schedules early in your planning. You can explore all lab casework options with our team.

Your Next Steps

Laboratory wood casework is an excellent choice for facilities that prioritize aesthetics, acoustic comfort, and budget without sacrificing performance in dry, light-duty environments. By matching the material to the application, you can create a functional and inviting workspace. For labs with more demanding chemical or moisture conditions, steel or specialty systems remain the superior option.

Ready to find the right fit for your facility?