If you're just setting up your own workshop and intend to keep sheet metal in stock--whether for artistic purposes or industrial ones--you're probably wondering how best to store it. The sheets can be large and cumbersome, so a good storage solution is essential! So what are your options? Read on for a bit of assistance with this potentially complex decision.

Vertical Racks

Vertical racks for sheet metal storage tend to look a lot like canvas storage racks, and are usually made of tubular steel. They're small, lightweight and inexpensive, making them an ideal choice for someone who is just starting out with a small workshop. They're also perfect for artists working with sheet metal for sculpture or other reasons, because they can be re-used for canvases or other things once you've moved on to a new project. Their major downsides are that they don't hold a lot and they can be hard to label clearly. So, if you need to store sheet metal in large quantities or you will have many different types to store, you might want to look at other solutions.

Shelved Cupboards

Anyone needing to store small quantities of many different varieties of sheet metal in an organised way should look into a sheet metal storage cupboard with multiple shelves. They won't take up a huge amount of room in your working space, they can be re-used for other things later and they're easier to label than racks. They also have a greater number of individual slots, making it simple to stay organised. They're generally pricier than vertical racks, but still affordable.

Horizontal Drawers

Drawer systems are pretty much the next step up from sheet metal cupboards, and are a good choice for anyone who needs great organisation and a reasonably high quantity of storage space. The drawers are trivial to label, and it's easy to see what's where. They also come in any number of shapes, sizes and styles, making it easy to fit your workshop out however you need to.

Built-In Storage

If you really need the space to hold as much sheet metal as possible, built in custom storage is the way to go. It can be pricey, but it's the only way to be sure you'll get exactly what you need if your storage requirements are a little more complex! Contact a local construction firm to ask about having plans drawn up if this is the right choice for you.