Things to Consider Before Buying a Desk

Every home can use a desk. Whether you work from home on a daily basis, want a space for when you do have to bring work home with you or just need a place where you will be able to get organized, a desk allows you work in comfort and store paperwork out of sight. In order to end up with a desk that will perfectly fit all of your requirements, here are some things to consider before purchasing one.

How Much Do You Want to Spend?

Decide how much want to spend. The budget you set will determine the material, style and extra features of the desk you purchase. For example, a contemporary style desk made of laminate that does not include storage options will be less expensive than a traditional style executive desk made of wood with wire management and a file drawer.

What are You Using the Desk For?

With so many types and styles to choose from, you want to first think about the desk's primary function. If you will be using it on a daily basis, a computer desk that has additional features like a keyboard tray, file drawer or enclosed CPU storage will be a good choice. On the other hand, if you intend on sitting at the desk to pay bills, do crosswords or balance your checkbook, a writing desk might better meet your requirements.

How Often Will You Be Using the Desk?

Especially if you are working from home or using the desk daily, ensuring that your work space is ergonomically functional is important. When seated at the desk, you need to be at the right height to have access to everything on the desk without overreaching, straining or twisting. To accomplish this, the desk you choose must work with the chair height and allow for leg room. Selecting a desk or chair or both the desk and chair with adjustable height capabilities will allow you to design a work enviroment that is ideally safe and comforatable for you.

What Size of Desk?

The size of desk mostly depends on available space. But it also depends on the purpose of the desk. If you have decided that an L-shaped computer desk with a hutch will perfectly meet the requirements of your home office, this desk will be larger than one you would select if you're just planning on using it occasionally. Take measurements to ensure that the desk you select will fit in the intended space.

Typical Materials Desks are Made Of

Wood

Desks can be made of varying grades of timber. Timber is the wood of trees, either hardwoods or soft woods, cut and prepared for use as building material. Hardwoods are woods from trees that lose their leaves in autumn, such as oak, walnut and maple. Softwoods are woods from coniferous trees or trees that do not shed their leaves, like pines or cedars. The terms "hardwood" and "soft wood" do not refer to the actual strength or density of the wood.

Pros and Cons

• Can be easily repaired
  Can be re-stained to change color
  Durable
• Most expensive material
  Can be easily scratched
  High maintenance: depending on the type of finish it may need polishing regularly

Engineered Woods

Desks made of an engineered wood generally have the look and feel of real wood without the high cost. Engineered woods are made from recyled materials that are pressed together into panels, and include plywood, particle board and MDF (medium density fiberboard). Desks made of engineered woods can also be paired with veneers, which are thin slices of real wood that have been applied to surface.

Pros and Cons

• Less expensive than real wood
  Some engineered wood products like plywood or MDF can be stronger than real wood
  Has the look and feel of real wood especially when paired with veneers
• Can't be re-stained or sanded easily
  Cheaper engineered products such as plywood or particle board can crack with age

Laminates

Laminates are produced by pressing layers of plastic, metal or wood together, then sealing them with a thermosetting resin. Laminate desks are generally made of plywood covered with the synthetic material.

Pros and Cons

• Inexpensive
  Available in a wide range of colors and finishes, included simulated wood grains
  Easy to clean
• Not particularly durable
  Not easy to repair once scratched or chipped

Glass

Glass desks generally have a glass desk top with a wood or metal frame. They have clean lines and especially when made of metal, can have an ultra-modern, streamlined look. Like decorating with mirrors, glass desks can make a small room appear larger.

Pros and Cons

• Can make the room appear larger and less cramped
  Easy to clean
  Easy to move
  Relatively inexpensive
• Difficult to repair once scratched
  Limited storage options (many types don't include drawers)
  Limited wire management options (cords are often in plain view)

Metal

Metals are a popular material for desks because of their strength and luster. Aluminum and chrome are often used to add metal accents to desks made of wood or glass. Desks made of aluminum are lightweight and versatile. Alloys refer to metals made by combining two or more elements and are stronger than pure metals.

Pros and Cons

• Durable and good for long term use
  Come in a variety of finishes and colors
  Easy to keep clean and maintain
• Need to ensure finishes are moisture resistant
  Esthetically speaking, can make a room appear "cold"