Wondering how often you should upgrade or replace your office furniture is a burning question for businesses that have been operating for many years. If you’re a few decades through running your business, chances are it’s time for a refresh. However, there are also many other signs apart from time that suggest your corporate furniture might need a replacement set.
Let’s take a look at some of the indications you should upgrade your corporate office furniture.
When it’s been 7-10 years
As a general rule of thumb, you should replace your office furnishings every 7 to 10 years at a minimum. This includes cubicles, desks and office chairs. Like most things, this timeframe depends on the quality of the furniture, and some pieces will usually last longer than others. For example, a leather office chair will typically need replacing less often than a mesh or fabric chair.
When furniture is damaged
Using office furniture five days a week will naturally cause it to become damaged over time. And one day, this repeated use might cause the furniture to suddenly break completely. Before you get to this point, there are a few signs of significant damage that suggest it’s probably time for a furniture upgrade:
- Flattened seat cushions
- Upholstery is ripped
- Paint is peeling heavily
- Pieces are missing
- Legs are broken
- Wheels are worn
When new upgrades are available
Keeping your business at the forefront of innovation includes your office furniture as well. Staying updated with the latest furniture upgrades is an easy way to see if your furniture is still fit for purpose or if it’s time to upgrade it. One example is the development of office desks. Previously, these desks were created to support bulky computer monitors. These days, all they need to support is a lightweight screen and a slim keyboard.
When furniture fashions shift
Just like clothing fashions, furniture fashions are also constantly changing. Your furniture is an easy way to impress potential clients, so keeping up to date with the latest trends shows that you are actively adapting your business to suit the times. However, it’s just as important to choose furniture that reflects your business, too. Investing in second hand office furniture will help you not only save money when purchasing new pieces but will also add some character to your workspace to show clients your business is truly one-of-a-kind.
When morale is down
A sure-fire way to decrease office morale is the same old furniture every day. This can also be a big problem if the furniture doesn’t function properly; for example, office chairs that don’t provide enough back support. If it seems like your employees are stuck in a rut, it might be time for some new workstations and chairs to revitalise your office environment.
If you’re wondering how often you should upgrade your corporate office furniture, chances are, the time is now. However, these indicators above are also a good way to judge when new furniture replacements might be on the cards.
