Benefits of Solid Sheet Decking for Pallet Racks: Maximizing Safety and Efficiency

Pallet racks are an essential part of any warehouse, but they can only be as effective as the decking that is used. Solid sheet decking is a superior option to wire decking in many ways, offering increased safety, efficiency, and versatility. The only OSHA regulation pertaining to pallet rack storage is 1926.250(a)(1) that states “All materials stored in tiers shall be stacked, racked, blocked, interlocked, or otherwise secured to prevent sliding, falling or collapse.” With little to go on from a regulation standpoint, how can you know what’s the best for your warehouse and materials? We break down your options to help you decide if solid sheet decking might be the right answer to help your business run more smoothly.

Pallet rack solid sheet decks vs. wire mesh decking

While the difference between solid sheet decking and wire decking for pallet racks may seem obvious, there’s more than meets the eye. Of course, the main difference between the two is the material used. Solid sheet decking is made of a single piece of metal, while wire decking is made of a mesh of wires. This critical difference in construction has a number of implications for the performance of the two types of decking.

Solid sheet decking is rigidly designed providing a more stable and smooth surface for pallets to rest on. This can help to prevent damage to products and equipment, and it can also make it easier to move pallets and products around, giving more options for organizing pallet racking. Wire decking, on the other hand, is more flexible and can sag under heavy loads. This can lead to damaged products and equipment, and can make material movement and organization more difficult. Pallet rack wire decking may not be able to hold certain products or items due to the openings in the wire mesh.

Solid decking’s rigid design can hold anything

Solid sheet decking wins out over wire decking when it comes to versatility. Though wire decking can be sufficient for most normal, standard products and pallets, it can prove unreliable with irregular or bulky items. Solid sheet decking allows storage of all types of products, including bagged goods and small item storage that could otherwise fall through the openings of traditional wire decking. Solid sheet decking ensures you won’t have to think about what and where to store items that don’t fit the mold. While solid sheet decking effortlessly handles and balances any load, wire decking can bend or break under the weight or irregular or uneven loads.

Solid sheet decking has a high weight capacity

Not only is solid sheet decking able to support irregular and bulky items, it also typically has a higher weight capacity compared to wire decking. Combined with its ability to hold any kind of stored product on its smooth surface, solid sheet decking is a smart way to go depending on the type and amount of product needing to be stored. Standard weight capacity is 2,500 lbs. and special die shelves can hold more.

Maximizing safety and efficiency

The benefits of solid sheet decking make it a superior choice for many warehouses. It is safer, more versatile, and typically has a higher weight capacity than wire decking. This can help warehouses to maximize safety and efficiency.

If you are looking for a way to improve the safety and efficiency of your warehouse, consider using solid sheet decking for your pallet racks. You will be glad you did.

Additional benefits of solid sheet decking are:

• It’s easier to clean and maintain than wire decking.
• It can be custom-made to fit your specific needs.