Are there more wheels or doors in the world?
That is one question that Risedesk simply cannot answer, but when it comes to wheels, we are the experts.
Whether you’re looking for mobilization on your desk, chair, filing cabinet, or any other object, if you’re asking “How do I choose the right castor?” we have you covered. This article is for anyone and everyone trying to navigate the world of castors.
What is a Castor?
Here’s an argument in favour of more wheels than doors! Castors are wheels to attach to the bottom of an object, typically your furniture, for mobility. Castors are most often used on chairs and desks. You might hear them called desk wheels or chair wheels.
They can be easily attached to the bottoms of most furniture so that you can move the object around as you so please! Enjoy redesigning? Have a free-flowing office? Castors are must-haves.
Castors or Casters?
We’re office furniture specialists, not grammar specialists, but we can tell you that “castor” is the British-English spelling, while “caster” is the American-English spelling.
We’re proudly Canadian so we use castor, just like the beaver.
Are Hard or Soft Castors Better?
Castors can be categorized simply into soft and hard castors.
Other features include the size (diameter), the width, the material, and the lockability.
Soft castors are best for more sensitive materials under your chair, such as hardwood floor and hard plastic chair mats. They’re known to be noiseless and non-damaging–you won’t see any scratches or slide marks!
On the other hand, hard castors are designed to be easier to roll on thick or soft surfaces like carpets. These softer surfaces are also less prone to breaking under pressure, so the castors can be made harder and more robust.
What Size Castor is Best?
Are bigger castors always better? No, not always.
If your object is smaller, more delicate, or more expensive, you’ll need as much control as you can get with movement. We’d recommend castors with smaller diameters that are thicker. These subtle wheels will prevent your object from rolling too quickly.
If your object is heavier, opt for a wider castor. Wider castors provide much more stability and balance, keeping your object from tipping especially when turning.
Note: the larger the wheel (diameter), the more easily it will roll.
Can You Put Castors on a Desk?
Yes! They’ll see you rolling, but they’ll be loving. Many desks, such as this sit-to-stand desk are made with the option to easily install castors on all legs.
How Many Castors Do I need?
Depending on your object, you’ll need anywhere from 3 to 6 castors or even more.
You’ll need as many castors as your object has legs. Most desks have 4 legs and most office chairs have 6 legs.
Castors are typically sold in packs of 4 or 6 as well.
 |
 |
How Much Weight Will 4 Castors Hold?
This answer depends on the type of castor. Castors, even plastic ones, are very sturdy and reliable to mobilize your furniture and other objects; however, be sure to check and respect the weight limits specified on product labels/descriptions.
If your object is particularly heavy, choose a wide castor to better stabilize the object and avoid tipping over.
How Can You Tell If a Castor is Good?
Like all products, castors come at different qualities and price points. It’s important to note that harder castors are not necessarily better than soft castors. Hard and soft castors serve different purposes.
Soft castors are best for more sensitive materials under your chair, such as hardwood floor and hard plastic chair mats. They’re known to be noiseless and non-damaging–you won’t see any scratches or slide marks!
On the other hand, hard castors are designed to be easier to roll on thick or soft surfaces like carpets. These softer surfaces are also less prone to breaking under pressure, so the castors can be made harder and more robust.
Additionally, the thickness or width of the castor also does not reflect the quality. These serve different purposes as well.
If your object is smaller, more delicate, or more expensive, you’ll need as much control as you can get with movement. We’d recommend castors with smaller diameters that are thicker. These subtle wheels will prevent your object from rolling too quickly.
If your object is heavier, opt for a wider castor. Wider castors provide much more stability and balance, keeping your object from tipping especially when turning.
Note: the larger the wheel (diameter), the more easily it will roll.
In general, to determine the quality of a castor, you can always rely on customer reviews, or even popularity and price. To get technical, thin plastic wheels do not prove to be as sturdy as rubber and metal wheels.
Once again, be sure to choose a material suitable for your floor and your object.
How Much Does a Castor Cost?
Usually sold in packs, 4-pack castors range from $10 for smaller, lighter castors to $70 for heavy-duty industrial castors.
Choose with regards to your budget, your floor, and your object.
The best castors on the market, the Risedesk Castors, can be acquired at $55. All of the quality of the heavy duty castors, for a fraction of the price.
