In an era where many individuals are prioritising health and wellbeing, workers are seeking ergonomic solutions for their workspaces. As a result of this, standing desks have emerged as a popular choice.
Offering the flexibility to alternate between sitting and standing positions with a push of a button, these desks promote better posture, blood circulation, productivity and overall well-being.
However, as with any big investment, it’s important to understand the lifespan of a standing desk.
Typically speaking, standing desks can last anywhere between 5-15 years, depending on a range of factors such as the quality of materials used to make the desk, usage habits and how many times it's being used.
Let's look at these influences in more detail..
Here are 5 factors that will determine how long a standing desk lasts:
1. The Materials Used
As with all furniture, the build quality is a major factor in how long standing desks will last, and this is the case with the desktop, frame, leg and mechanism materials.
Standing desks made from high-quality strong materials such as steel, aluminium, or premium wood will last much longer than those made of weak parts. We’re talking 10-15 years or more with the proper care.Here are some of the top materials you can find to create high-quality standing desks:
Desktop Materials
- Solid Wood: Solid woods like oak, maple, walnut, and bamboo are highly durable and can last for many years. While they are typically more expensive, they offer a premium look and feel.
- Reclaimed Wood: Eco-friendly and unique in appearance, this type of wood is highly durable and often used in high-end standing desks.
- Laminate: High-pressure laminate (HPL) is durable, scratch-resistant, and available in various finishes. It’s a good balance between quality and affordability.
- Powder-Coated MDF: Medium-density fiberboard (MDF) with a powder-coated finish can provide a sleek look and is durable, though not as premium as solid wood.
Frame and Leg Materials
- Steel: High-grade steel is the most common material for the frame and legs of standing desks as it features excellent strength and stability, which is pretty essential for height-adjustable mechanisms.
- Aluminium: Aluminium is more lightweight meaning that it’s easier to move around. It is typically used for a modern look, though it can be more expensive than steel.
Browse our quality range of adjustable desk frames and desktops here.
2. The Frequency of Use
The longevity of a standing desk is also greatly influenced by how frequent it is used.
For example, a standing desk that is used every day, especially if it's adjusted multiple times throughout the day, will naturally experience more wear on its mechanical and electrical components.
However, desks that are adjusted less frequently will have less wear on their moving parts, and these desks might last a bit longer because their components aren't stressed as often.
The more a standing desk is used, naturally, the more wear and tear it will encounter.3. The Type of Desk
The quality of the lifting mechanisms, such as electric motors or pneumatic systems will also greatly impact durability and lifespan.
The lifespan of electric standing desks heavily depends on the quality of the motors used. As you would imagine, high-quality motors from reputable brands will last longer, whereas cheaper motors may wear out faster. However, getting the desk maintained regularly and ensuring the motors are clean can prolong the life of an electric standing desk.
On the other hand, manual standing desks adjust their height using mechanical mechanisms such as cranks or pneumatic levers. This means they have fewer components that can fail compared to their electric counterparts.
The mechanical components, like the crank and gears, are generally robust but can wear out over time with frequent use, but regular maintenance, such as lubricating the moving parts and avoiding excessive force, can further prolong their lifespan and usability.
Learn more about electric vs manual standing desks here.
4. Usage Habits
How a standing desk is used will also determine how long it will last for.
For example, placing heavy desk equipment like multiple monitors, desktop computers, or other office equipment can strain the desk's frame and lifting mechanisms, leading to quicker wear… especially if the desk isn’t made from strong, high-quality materials.
Rough handling and exceeding weight limits can also hinder its integrity and functionality over a long period. It’s important to ensure you’re properly distributing weight across the desk and not exceeding the weight capacity.
Also, standing desks that are used by multiple people in a professional setting are likely to be used more rigorously, increasing the frequency of adjustments and overall wear.
Home office desks typically experience less frequent adjustments and lighter loads, which might extend their lifespan.5. Maintenance
As touched on in the points above, maintenance plays a crucial role in determining the lifespan of a standing desk, whether it be electric or manual.
Proper care can prevent premature wear, keep the standing desk functioning smoothly, and address minor issues before they become bigger problems.
It’s therefore a good idea to establish a regular maintenance routine, including elastic component lubrication, surface cleaning, and visual inspection for damaged or loose parts are examples of integral maintenance procedures.
Looking for a standing desk for your home, office or workspace? Check out our full collection of standing desks, available for next working day delivery if ordered by 3pm.
Our desks come with a 7 year warranty, 30 day risk free return, as well as access to a UK-based customer service team to answer any questions that you might have.
Need additional help choosing a standing desk? Get in contact with our expert team with any queries.
Otherwise, our standing desk blog provides more useful tips on using a standing desk for a more balanced lifestyle. Feel free to contact us with any questions, with the handy live chat feature on our site, or via email at info@ergodesks.co.uk.
