Stacking metal filing cabinets properly is essential for safety, accessibility, and organization. Following some basic guidelines can help ensure your filing cabinets are secure and the contents easily retrievable.
Preparation
- Clear a space where you want to stack the cabinets. Make sure the floor is level and strong enough to support the weight.
- Remove any contents from the cabinets before stacking. This makes them lighter to move.
- Have a helper on hand if the cabinets are large or heavy. Trying to stack loaded cabinets poses a safety risk.
Stacking Basics
- Place the cabinets side by side if they will be stationary. Leave a small gap between to allow the doors to open fully.
- If the cabinets will be moved, stack two cabinets back to back. This provides stability when rolling or sliding the stack.
- Stack the heaviest cabinet on bottom for a lower center of gravity.
- Make sure the cabinets are aligned properly so the weight is evenly distributed.
- Insert shims or small wood pieces if one cabinet sits slightly lower to level them.
Securing the Cabinets
- Once stacked, secure the cabinets together if they did not come with pre-installed hardware. This prevents swaying or shifting when opening drawers and doors.
- Clamp the cabinets using C-clamps on the sides and back. Tighten the clamps securely.
- Alternatively, use brackets or cabinet locking kits screwed into studs on the sides or top and bottom. Follow the hardware instructions.
- For a more permanent installation, anchor the bottom cabinet to the floor or wall studs.
Safety Tips
- Do not overload the top filing cabinets which can make them unstable. Heavier items should go in bottom drawers.
- Open one drawer at a time to prevent tip over. Close lower drawers before opening uppers.
- Be careful when opening upper drawers in tall stacks. Sudden pulling can topple the stack.
- Secure cabinets to a wall with appropriate hardware if not stacking back to back against a wall.
Properly stacking metal filing cabinets with a focus on safety and security ensures you can safely store and access important contents. Always take precautions when moving or installing high stacks. With proper care, your filing cabinets can serve your organizing needs for many years.
Frequently Asked Questions About Stacking Metal Filing Cabinets
How many filing cabinets can I safely stack?
Most manufacturers recommend safely stacking no more than 2-3 standard 4-5 drawer filing cabinets. Beyond that height, the stack can become unstable and hazardous to move or open the drawers.
Should the cabinets be empty when stacking?
Yes, remove all contents before stacking. The lighter weight helps with maneuvering, and prevents shifting or falling items inside the drawers.
Can I stack lateral file cabinets together?
Lateral file cabinets are designed for back to back stacking to form a row. The top can support printers, lights, or other accessories. Do not stack lateral cabinets side by side.
How do I prevent scratches when stacking metal cabinets?
Use protective pads, plywood, or cardboard between the cabinets and on the bottom of the stack. Alternatively, place strips of duct tape along contact points. Avoid sliding cabinets when positioning them.
What type of flooring is best for stacking cabinets?
The flooring should be hard, even, and level such as wood, concrete, or linoleum. Avoid carpeting which can compress unevenly. The floor must support the substantial stacked weight.
Can I stack a lateral file cabinet on top of a vertical one?
This arrangement risks tipping since lateral cabinets have a higher center of gravity. Stick with vertical on vertical stacks, or lateral on lateral aligning the sides.
Conclusion
Stacking filing cabinets properly relies on careful prep, step-by-step installation, safety awareness, and common sense. Assess the total weight, placement, floor strength, and type of cabinets before starting. Secure tightly once stacked and use extra anchors or hardware for added stability with tall stacks. Maintain safety by opening one drawer at a time and keeping the contents organized with heavier items on bottom. With smart stacking strategies, your filing cabinets can offer secure and accessible storage solutions.