Roller cabinets can be just as essential a tool to your garage, laboratory, repair shop or for an avid DYI-er as a screwdriver, hammer and a bottle of WD-40. Choosing the right cabinet can be bothersome so we have compiled this little guide for your convenience.
Size
First, let’s start with the size of the cabinet you may need. When thinking about the size you should take into consideration both the space you have available and the amount of tools the cabinet will have to hold. There are many types of roller-cabinets, from those that will have only drawers to just cabinets or a mixture of both. Depending if you need the roller cabinet for heavy tools or to hold and organise smaller tools and odds and ends, you should think of the appropriate size first.
Shelving should also be taken into consideration. Roller cabinets come with various shapes and sizes of shelving like open cubbies or adjustable shelving, to meet your needs. When buying a roller cabinet, it is also good to check how deep the shelves, drawers and cubbies are. If you need to store smaller tools a shallower cabinet consisting mostly of drawers may be preferred, while if you are storing bulkier equipment a deeper shelf cabinet may be better.
Material
The second thing to think about is the different materials that are used in making the cabinets. The two most commonly used are steel and plastic. Other materials include hardwood and laminate.
- Steel Tool Boxes are sturdy, have a long life and can hold heavy objects. Unfortunately, they are not waterproof and can become quite heavy.
- Plastic Tool Boxes are lighter, waterproof and more affordable. However, they are more limited in the weight they can hold.
- Laminate Tool Boxes are light, easy to maintain and are affordable. However, like plastic boxes they are not recommended for heavy objects or as storage for chemicals.
- Hardwood Tool Boxes are usually heavier than steel and laminate boxes, which makes them more durable and sturdier. It also blends well with most décor.
Doors
Depending on the use of the Roller Cabinet, you should think about what kind of doors you would like. Most would look into the option of handles or no handles, but there are a few more to consider.
- Solid Doors are the most durable option. They are perfect for privacy and safety. If you need to store unsafe chemicals or heavy machinery that needs to be handled with caution, this type of door is perfect for that.
- Clear Doors usually clear doors will be made from glass or plastic. They can be locked and allow you to keep an eye on any valuables you may be storing in the cabinet or on quantities of supplies you may need.
- Mesh Metal Doors a sturdier alternative to clear doors. Mesh metal doors are still see-through but more durable and safer. They are perfect for laboratories.
