How to Stack Metal Filing Cabinets
Metal filing cabinets are a practical storage solution for organizing documents and files in the home or office. While individual cabinets are useful, sometimes you need additional storage space that can be created by stacking metal filing cabinets on top of each other. However, there are important considerations when stacking metal filing cabinets to do it safely and effectively. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to properly stack metal filing cabinets.
Selecting Compatible Filing Cabinets to Stack
When selecting metal filing cabinets to stack, you need to make sure they are designed and compatible for stacking. Here are the key factors to consider:
Height and Width Compatibility
The filing cabinets you plan to stack must have the same height and width dimensions so they fit securely on top of each other. Even small differences in cabinet dimensions can make stacking unsafe. Measure the height and width of cabinets you want to stack and verify the dimensions match exactly.
Weight Load Capacity
Verify the maximum weight load capacity of the upper and lower filing cabinets. The bottom cabinet must be rated to safely hold the combined weight of both stacked cabinets plus the contents. The top cabinet must be rated to handle its own weight when empty. Consult the manufacturer specs to find the load capacities before stacking.
Matching Cabinet Styles
For secure stacking, the filing cabinets should be the same or complementary styles from the same manufacturer. This helps ensure the footprint, weight distribution, and contact points are optimized for stacking. Mixing filing cabinet styles can lead to an uneven stack.
Desktop Versions
Some metal filing cabinets are designed specifically for desktop use and not structurally made for stacking. Only use standalone, freestanding filing cabinet models when stacking.
Interlocking Mechanisms
High-quality metal filing cabinets designed for stacking will have interlocking mechanisms such as flanges or grooves to securely connect stacked cabinets. Avoid stacking cabinets without compatible interlocking features.
Manufacturer Approval
Consult the filing cabinet manufacturer or manual to verify whether a model can be safely stacked. Some manufacturers provide instructions, limitations, or safety notices when stacking their filing cabinets.
Preparing the Cabinets and Location
Take time to adequately prepare both the filing cabinets and stacking location to help ensure a safe and successful outcome:
Clear Top Cabinet
Completely empty the top filing cabinet that will be stacked on another unit. stacked when loaded with contents. Only stack an empty top cabinet.
Assess Floor Load Strength
Consider the total combined weight of stacked loaded filing cabinets and verify the floor can handle the load without sagging or structural damage. Stack in a room with a concrete floor or over beams for maximum support.
Check Ceiling Height
Measure the total height of the stacked filing cabinets and make sure there is sufficient room underneath ceilings and fixtures. Account for height of the stacked units as well as needed clearance for opening drawers.
Clean and Inspect Cabinets
Wipe down the top and bottom of the filing cabinets to remove dirt, debris or moisture that could impact friction and stability when stacked. Also inspect for any loose screws, broken components or damage.
Stabilize Bottom Cabinet
To prevent shifting when stacking, temporarily brace or bolt the bottom filing cabinet to the wall or floor using brackets, cleats or anchors. Remove supports after the cabinets are stacked.
Position Cabinets Properly
Make sure the bottom filing cabinet is positioned in the exact final location needed before stacking, with drawers aligned evenly and the cabinet leveled on the floor.
Stacking the Cabinets Securely
When ready to stack, take time and care to follow safety procedures:
Lift Safely and Cautiously
Only manually lift the top filing cabinet if you have the strength, assistance and proper technique to prevent injury. Otherwise use dollies or other mechanized aids for lifting. Keep your back straight and lift with your legs.
Place Precision when Setting Cabinet
Carefully lower and place the top filing cabinet squarely onto the bottom cabinet, ensuring the feet are fully seated and the unit is centered and stable before letting go.
Inspect Alignment and Fit
Verify that the stacked cabinets are aligned flush and the connection points are fitting snugly together as designed. Stacked units should not rock side-to-side or front-to back if properly mated and supported.
Install Interlocking Features
If provided, engage any manufacturer locking parts or mechanisms, such as side flanges, to securely interconnect the stacked filing cabinets. This prevents shifting or separation.
Insert Anti-Tipping Hardware
Securely install anti-tip wall anchors or floor brackets specifically made for anchoring stacked filing cabinets. This prevents accidental tipping if drawers are left open.
Add Reinforcing Brackets (Optional)
For added stability, attach metal L-brackets or cabinet clamps to further brace and reinforce the stacked filing cabinets. Take care not to dent or bend cabinet frames when installing brackets.
Using and Maintaining Stacked Cabinets
Once securely stacked, continue to follow safety practices when using your vertically expanded filing cabinet storage solution:
Distribute Contents Evenly
Fill each drawer evenly across stacked cabinets to avoid concentrated weight in any single cabinet that could cause tipping and imbalance issues. Start filling bottom drawers first.
Open One Drawer at a Time
Only open one drawer at a time to access contents, and fully close that drawer before opening another one. Simultaneously open drawers can lead to a tipped-over stack.
Inspect Cabinet Alignment Periodically
Check for any shifting or misalignment issues over time and retighten wall anchors or brackets as needed to keep cabinets securely stacked. Watch for sagging or bowed cabinets.
Use Caution Moving Stacked Units
Use extra caution and assistance if needing to reposition the entire stack, opening doors to allow wide clearance for the stacked height and depth. Never tilt or twist when moving stacked cabinets.
Check Weight Ratings Before Adding Contents
Verify the combined documented weight ratings of the stacked cabinets and do not exceed the total load capacity spread across the vertical units. Overloaded stacked cabinets can collapse.
With proper selection, preparation and stacking technique, filing cabinets can be safely arranged vertically to double storage capacity while saving floor space. Always follow manufacturers instructions and enlist assistance to prevent tip-overs or damage when working with stacked metal filing cabinets. Handle stacked units with care and take precautions when opening drawers to enjoy stable, expanded filing capabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Stacking Metal Filing Cabinets
Can I stack two different types of metal filing cabinets?
No, only stack filing cabinets that are the same model and size to ensure proper fit and weight distribution. Mixing different cabinets risks an uneven, unstable stack.
How should I align the cabinets when stacking?
Carefully align filing cabinets flush and centered when stacking, ensuring the feet are fully engaged on the cabinet below so there is no front/back or side-to-side rocking.
Should I bolt my filing cabinets together when stacked?
While not mandatory, using bolts or L-brackets to interconnect stacked cabinets provides added stability and prevents shifting or separation over time.
What are anti-tip brackets and why are they important?
Anti-tip wall anchors or floor brackets prevent stacked filing cabinets from tipping over if multiple drawers are open at the same time. This improves safety and stability.
Can I stack a file cabinet on top of my desk or credenza?
No, only stack standalone filing cabinets designed for stacking. Do not try stacking on furniture like desks or credenzas that lack interlocking cabinet features.
How much weight can I put in stacked filing cabinets?
Check the load capacity specs for your cabinets and do not exceed the recommended weight limits. Distribute contents evenly between stacked units starting with bottom drawers first.
Is it safe to stack a lateral file cabinet on a vertical cabinet?
Yes, as long as the cabinets are designed for stacking and the lateral cabinet is securely anchored to both the wall and vertical cabinet for maximum stability.
Do I need any special tools to stack filing cabinets?
You may need tools like a level, screwdriver and brackets to safely stack cabinets. Never tilt or twist stacked units – use moving aids if relocating the entire assembly.
Should I stack cabinets before or after attaching to a wall?
Attach cabinets to the wall only after they are fully stacked and aligned. Wall mounting provides added anti-tip protection after the stack is complete.
How often should I inspect my stacked filing cabinets?
Periodically inspect for any shifting or loosening of brackets and connectors. Tighten any hardware that becomes loose to maintain the safest stacking configuration over years of use.
Conclusion
Stacking metal filing cabinets can double your storage capacity while taking up minimal floor space. With some careful planning to select compatible cabinets, proper preparation of the stacking location, safely lifting and aligning the units, and using anti-tip hardware, filing cabinets can be effectively organized vertically. Maintain safety by loading cabinets evenly, opening one drawer at a time, and inspecting the stack for any signs of loosening or instability. Follow manufacturer guidance and take your time when undertaking this useful filing cabinet stacking process to enjoy the benefits of extra organized storage space.
