Open Shelving vs. Closed Shelving

What shelving meets your needs?

Your decision on open vs. closed shelving will be based on your application. Where protective storage and a more finished look are desired, closed-type shelving is desirable. In instances where more accessibility and more economical shelving is the priority, consider open-type shelving.

Open Shelving

  • More economical and offers greater accessibility than closed-type shelving. Stability is achieved with the use of back and side braces. 
  • Back braces eliminate lateral sway. They fasten to the flanges of offset angle posts. Braces also bolt to each other at the center hole to ease installation.
  • Side braces eliminate front to back sway. They fasten to the flanges of the front and rear posts.

 Closed Shelving

  • This shelving uses panels to enclose the backs and sides of the shelving unit, giving greater stability. Closed units offer greater protection of stored items than do open units. Closed shelving confer a cleaner, finished look and can be combined with a variety of options, including doors to create a lockable cabinet. 
  • Back panels fasten to the posts. The center of the back panel is held tight against shelves with a back panel clip, furnished with each back. Back-to-back units are able to utilize a common back, provided the units are securely bolted together.
  • Backs 36" wide are furnished as one piece through 87" high. Over 87" high, they are split horizontally into two pieces. 42" and 48" wide backs are furnished in one piece through 51" high; above 51" they are split horizontally into two pieces. All hardware is included.
  • Side panels fasten to the front and rear posts and are furnished in one piece up to 87" high.