What is warehouse decking used for?
There are several different types of warehouse decking can be used on warehouse shelving or pallet racking. The decking itself is mainly used for the storage of small parts, loose goods or where there are varying sizes of pallets or stillages.
The decks come in all shapes and sizes, from standard timber decks to notched steel variations. Therefore it’s essential to understand the various types of decking and the products that are suitable to store on them.
Timber Decking
Timber decks can be supplied in two options: open or close boarded. They are highly resilient, making them suitable for heavy duty applications but are also suitable for the storage of small, light-weight pallets.
Timber decks are made out of a number of wooden slats which are screwed into the battens. They can be made to any size, and they work to enhance the overall safety of the racking system by eliminating the risk of pallets falling through the beam. They can also be used to support stillages or undersized pallets to provide additional support to prevent stock from falling through the racking.
Features:
- Close or open boarded
- Small parts, loose goods, pallets of various sizes or stillages needing to be stored
Chipboard Decking
Chipboard is made by gluing together wood particles with an adhesive under heat and pressure, creating a board with a relatively smooth surface.
It is available in a number of densities: normal, medium and high-density and is typically used for loads with a maximum weight of 1,000kgs.
They can be used in small parts and picking systems, long span shelving and carpet shelving systems. The decks can be made to any size, and when installed sit flush within the front face of the beam.
Features:
- Densities: normal, medium and high-density
- Maximum weight of 1,000kgs
- Small parts and picking systems, long span shelving and carpet shelving systems
- The decks can be made to any size
Notched Decking
Notched steel decks are galvanised steel panels that slot directly on to shelving and pallet racking beams. They are generally used to store hand loaded products on pallet racking structures when pallets are not available.
Each shelf is supplied as a series of lift out panels to enable cleaning when required. They are easily fitted, more durable than chipboard warehouse decking alternatives, and are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
They come in a choice of sizes to fit various shelving units and are easily replaced if one happens to get damaged.
Features:
- Come in a variety of sizes to fit various units
- Easily replaced if one happens to get damaged
- Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use
Mesh Decking
Wire mesh decks offer an excellent solution when smaller items need to be stored on pallet racking. The mesh deck is placed on the beams, acting as a shelf to store boxes, totes and other smaller items.
They are commonly used as a safety measure to prevent pallets or the products stored on them from falling through the racking structure. The decks are available in various thicknesses and dimensions, and they also prevent dirt and debris from accumulating on the shelves due to the holes in the mesh. They offer a durable solution for all types of warehouse environment.
Features:
- Various thicknesses and dimensions
- Easy to clean
- Durable