10 Reasons You Need HDPE Lockers in Your School

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Are you looking to perform some much-needed renovations in your school? While repainting the walls or having the HVAC system inspected can be useful, what about replacing your lockers with a better material? Schools all across the country have been installing HDPE (high-density polyethylene) lockers throughout their school’s halls and corridors, and have been met with great results. So, here’s a list of the 10 reasons why you need HDPE lockers in your school…

1. Nicer Aesthetics

HDPE comes in homogenous color patterns that you can choose from. They can be tailored to match any design that you’re going for with your school. While lockers can be painted over, do you really want to go through the painstaking task of painting each individual locker in your school?

2. Noise Reduction

The pang of a metal locker slamming shut is enough to remind anyone of their days at school. However, HDPE lockers have a much softer sound. During a test using both an HDPE locker and a metal locker, the sound of an HDPE locker closing was three times softer than that of a metal locker’s sound. The lack of the sharp smack will be more pleasant to the ears of both students and faculty.

3. Durability

While metal lockers have a strong structure, they’re susceptible to a variety of cosmetic damages like scratches and dents. HDPE lockers, on the other hand, are made into a solid plastic construction. They’re highly durable and can take an impact without resulting in exterior damages or scratching.

4. HDPE Doesn’t Rust

A common problem that affects metal lockers is rust. Humidity and moisture can build up, especially near the end of the school year, and sooner or later, the lockers will begin to rust. This is a looming problem in locker rooms, due to the numerous sources of water. HDPE doesn’t absorb moisture, so it won’t rust or sprout mold.

5. Improve Your Air Quality

As we mentioned before, HDPE doesn’t rust, and it can repel humidity and moisture. It won’t sprout mold, which would have a negative effect on your school’s air quality. HDPE also doesn’t need to be repainted, which reduces the risk of VOC (volatile organic compound) emissions from contaminating your school’s air.

6. Easy Installation

Metal lockers require a lot of care and attention when they’re being installed. HDPE lockers, on the other hand, are a quick and simple setup that won’t require a lot of time and effort. By comparison, it takes less time to install HDPE lockers than metal ones.

7. More Secure Storage

Another major benefit to HDPE lockers is that they’re more secure. Metal lockers do have their weaknesses, and students will figure out those weaknesses to gain entry to a locker that isn’t theirs. HDPE lockers have a built-in lock, and you also have options of what type of lock you want, with either inset combination locks or hasps being easily configured into the locker, providing a secure storage compartment for students.

8. Low Cost Maintenance

One of the biggest advantages of choosing HDPE lockers over metal is the lack of serious maintenance that you’ll have to do. Because of their durability, HDPE lockers don’t require extensive repairs. In fact, they just need a simple cleaning every now and again. A simple wipe can even remove unwanted graffiti.

9. Big Return on Investment

On the surface, HDPE lockers may seem like a pricier option. However, due to their strong construction and low maintenance, they simply pay for themselves. Within two years, HDPE lockers will be less expensive than metal lockers, due to the constant maintenance that metal lockers require. They’ll even outlast metal lockers, so you won’t have to worry about a replacement for at least 20 years.

10. Sustainability

Did you know that HDPE plastic is made from recycled materials? Because of the post-consumer materials, and their durability and lifespan, HDPE lockers are 100% sustainable. If you’re considering going greener, or becoming LEED Certified, choosing HDPE lockers is a huge step in the right direction.
Want to hear about more reasons why you should get HDPE lockers for your school? Check out Duralife Lockers now!

Locker Dimensions: Choosing the Right Sized Locker for Your Space

When it’s time to choose lockers for your space, there are a few factors that you need to consider before you go about acquiring the materials. First, you need to figure out how many lockers you actually need based on occupancy. It’s always best to have extra lockers rather than having a few occupants that need to carry around their materials all day. But, you also need to factor in locker dimensions as well as what type of material you’re going to use.

Determining Locker Size, Given the Space & Location

Where do you plan on putting these lockers? Will they be lining a corridor, tucked in a side alcove, or be located in an actual locker room? These are the questions that you need to answer before heading deeper into your locker journey. The important thing is to have big enough lockers to accommodate the students’ or occupants’ items, as well as having enough for each occupant.

When you’ve picked out your designated locker area, you’ll want to be sure of the exact measurements of where you plan on putting these storage compartments. If it’s in a corridor, you can probably get away with the full-length lockers that line the walls. But if you’re planning to put these lockers in an enclosed area, you’ll want to carefully figure out your setup. Using smaller lockers can allow you to maximize the number of lockers; however, it’ll reduce total locker space.

Choosing the Right Locker Materials

While size and dimensions are huge factors when deciding on your lockers, you also need to figure out the material that you’re going to use. Metal lockers have been the traditional choice for many years, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that they’re without drawbacks. While metal lockers may seem secure, they can be scratched, dented, spray painted, and even broken into. You’ll want to avoid these issues at all costs.

Some facilities have begun implementing HDPE (high-density polyethylene) lockers, due to the highly durable plastic construction. This solid plastic is resistant to scratches, dents, and graffiti. Because of its solid plastic construction, you can pick any type of lock, which will be securely placed in the material.

Considering Locker Maintenance

If you’re choosing lockers for a specific locker room, you’ll need to keep up with maintenance. Metal lockers are vulnerable to moisture and humidity, which is always present in locker rooms, and they can rust easily. HDPE can stand up to moisture because it won’t rust or absorb the humidity and sprout mold. HDPE is a relatively low cost in terms of maintenance. All you need to do is clean the lockers every once in a while. They’ll stand up to the pressure and the elements.

Want to learn more about why HDPE plastic lockers are the best choice? Download The Ultimate Guide to HDPE Plastic Lockers, from your friends at Scranton Products.

Plastic Lockers FAQ

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At Scranton Products, we’re more than happy to help any interested party learn more about HDPE plastic lockers, and why they’re a smart choice and a suitable material for your school or facility. In order to help you learn as much as possible about these lockers, we’ve assembled this plastic lockers FAQ page. We encourage you to look below to the relevant question to see if the answer helps you.

Are HDPE Lockers Durable?

Yes! HDPE (high-density polyethylene) plastic lockers have been proven to be more durable than traditional metal lockers. Due to their solid plastic construction, HDPE lockers are more impact-resistant than standard lockers. They won’t even dent or scratch. They’re also resistant to humidity and moisture, making them a valuable storage compartment in locker rooms or other damp areas of your school or facility. They’ll resist mold growth, as well as rust, so you don’t have to worry about costly replacements or repairs.

Do HDPE Lockers Require a Lot of Maintenance?

Because of the durable construction, HDPE lockers require very little maintenance. They’re guaranteed to last up to 20 years without any problems. The only maintenance that they require is a simple cleaning now and again. Imagine how much time and money you’ll save on maintenance! They essentially pay for themselves after a few years.

Are These Lockers Difficult to Assemble?

Installing these lockers is quick and easy. By following the instructions, you’ll see a fast and efficient installation process. With a little help, you can install all your lockers in one day.

Are HDPE Plastic Lockers Secure?

HDPE lockers are customizable, offering you many different options as to what type of locking system works best for you. Duralife lockers come with either an inset combination lock or a hasp. Tufftec lockers provide numerous options like padlocks, keys, in-door combinations, and even an RFID digital lock.

How Big Are HDPE Lockers?

These lockers don’t have a set size. You can actually customize the size and tiers that you want, depending on the needs, as well as the space allotted in your school or facility.

Do HDPE Lockers Need to Be Painted?

HDPE lockers don’t require you to paint them. They’re available in multiple designs, as well as homogenous colors. Any signs of graffiti can simply be wiped away, without you having to paint your lockers. Not only will this save you the effort, but you won’t be risking your air quality with the VOC (volatile organic compound) emissions released by paint.

What Are the Benefits of Choosing HDPE Lockers?

There are numerous benefits to choosing HDPE lockers. They’re durable, low-maintenance, cost-effective, long-lasting, and sustainable. They’re also considered green building materials, so you can get started on making your school or facility more sustainable by utilizing HDPE plastic lockers. These eco-friendly lockers would make a great addition to your school or facility.

 

Want to learn even more about HDPE lockers and the many benefits? Check out our Duralife lockers.

Why Schools Are Choosing HDPE Over Traditional School Lockers

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The sound of metal lockers slamming shut can make anyone have a flashback to when they were back in school. Traditional lockers have been used in almost every school due to their reliable nature and durability. However, many schools have begun choosing HDPE (high-density polyethylene) over the traditional metal lockers, citing it as a much better alternative. We’ll gladly explain why schools are making the jump from metal to HDPE.

The Drawbacks of Traditional Metal Lockers

Metal lockers have been the standard for many years. They allow students to store their books and materials during the day with the benefit of a secure lock to protect their valuables. However, despite the long history of schools implementing metal lockers, there are a few drawbacks to sticking with the old standard.

While it’s more noticeable in actual locker rooms, metal lockers don’t necessarily stand up to humidity and moisture. With enough exposure, your colorful metal lockers will soon begin to rust, and the rust removal process can be meticulous and expensive. Not to mention, if left unchecked, an entire replacement may be required.

A common misconception about metal lockers is that they’re highly durable. In fact, they can incur a wide array of damage to their structure, as well as the aesthetics. They’re easily dented, and considering that slamming the locker is pretty much common practice, keeping up with the damage isn’t the easiest process. Graffiti is another issue that metal lockers face, because the removal of graffiti requires paint.

Why HDPE Is the Superior Material

Many schools have begun installing HDPE plastic instead of metal lockers for a variety of reasons. Due to the solid plastic construction, HDPE offers a strength and durability that thin steel and metal lockers can’t compete with. The plastic is impact-resistant, and given the students’ preferred method of closing their lockers, the HDPE can take the hits and show no sign of damage. They even emit a softer sound than the loud metal clang provided by traditional lockers.

Because HDPE is a more durable material, and endures very little damage, it doesn’t require extensive repairs. Its solid construction doesn’t rust and won’t absorb moisture. Another great advantage to HDPE school lockers is that they’re resistant to graffiti. Any sign of unwanted artwork can be simply wiped away without having to repaint the piece and adding unwanted VOC (volatile organic compounds) emissions into the air.

But what may be the biggest advantage that HDPE has over traditional lockers is the maintenance, or lack thereof. HDPE doesn’t require the constant maintenance and upkeep that metal lockers need in order to last. Instead, HDPE needs a simple cleaning every once in a while, making this material a low-maintenance and low-cost alternative to traditional metal lockers.

Are you looking to make the jump from traditional lockers to HDPE? Download this eBook, The Ultimate Guide to HDPE Plastic Lockers, from your friends at Scranton Products.

School Lockers for Sale: Cost Effective & Durable School Lockers

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When it’s time to replace your school’s lockers, there are a few factors that you need to consider. Low cost and highly durable lockers should be at the top of your list. But are you making the right choice with your lockers?

While metal lockers have been the gold standard for generations to keep their books and bags tucked away during the school day, it’s certainly time for a change. You can easily find cost effective and durable school lockersfor sale that are improved upon the standard metal and steel lockers.

Find a dealer near you!

A Highly Durable Replacement

When you’re looking for a cost effective replacement, don’t continue to spend your money on the same metal lockers. Instead, invest in a newer material like HDPE (high-density polyethylene). This solid plastic has been used for lockers in schools across the country with positive results. There are many factors that make HDPE a more versatile and cost effective material. The number one being that they’re low maintenance when compared to metal lockers.

Metal lockers may seem durable, but their thin surface makes them susceptible to dents and scratches. HDPE and its solid plastic design is actually resistant to dents, scratches, and even graffiti. When graffiti appears on a metal locker surface, the locker needs to be repainted, resulting in the cost of paint and the risk of VOC (volatile organic compounds) emissions in the air. HDPE, however, doesn’t need to be repainted. The graffiti can simply be wiped away without you having to worry about the cost of paint or the harmful chemicals seeping into the air.

Smart & Sustainable

Choosing a locker isn’t only about choosing the best material for the job, but also choosing a material that’s going to last for a long time. Picking a sustainable material like HDPE will have many benefits, one of which is lasting for the years. Going with low cost and low maintenance lockers is the smart move.

Metal lockers have too many vulnerabilities to last the years. Metal lockers require too much maintenance, and when they’re in an actual locker room, they can become rusted. This results in not only costly maintenance, but it’s also meticulous and time-consuming. HDPE just needs routine cleaning throughout their lifespan.

The Benefits of Choosing HDPE Lockers

When you opt for HDPE lockers over the traditional metal, you’ll notice the differences right away. Not only will you save time and money on maintenance, but you’ll also pick up on the fact that HDPE lockers are much quieter than metal lockers. The loud metal slam will be a thing of the past, and you’ll be happy to know that your lockers are strong, durable, and they’ll last for years, so you don’t have to worry about having them replaced anytime soon.

Want to learn more about HDPE lockers? Download The Ultimate Guide to HDPE Plastic LockerseBook. You can even find out where to get HDPE lockers for sale by contacting us at Scranton Products.

Understanding ADA Terms

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According to the U.S. Census Bureau, in 2010 nearly 56.7 million people had a disability. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design were enacted to ensure that both public and commercial buildings are accessible to people with disabilities. Design professionals and facilities managers need to be familiar both with the regulations in the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design as well as with local accessibility guidelines, as many local codes have even more stringent guidelines than the national codes.

Understanding ADA terminology can help you better understand ADA regulations and building codes. The following key ADA terms and information can be found in the ADA national network website at adata.org:

Title III of the ADA pertains to Public Accommodations (private entities). Under ADA Title III, no individual may be discriminated against on the basis of disability with regards to the full and equal enjoyment of the goods, services, facilities, or accommodations of any place of public accommodation by any person who owns, leases (or leases to), or operates a place of public accommodation.

Universal design (UD) is also known as “inclusive design” and “design for all.” This is an approach to the design of products, places, policies and services that can meet the needs of as many people as possible throughout their lifetime, regardless of age, ability, or situation.

Public accommodations are private entities that own, operate, lease, or lease to places of public accommodation and include places such as restaurants, hotels, theaters, convention centers, retail stores, shopping centers, dry cleaners, laundromats, pharmacies, doctors’ offices, hospitals, museums, libraries, parks, zoos, amusement parks, private schools, day care centers, health spas, and bowling alleys.

Public entities are covered by Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and are defined as:

  • Any State or local government
  • Any department or agency of State or local government
  • Certain commuter authorities

Fundamental alteration describes a modification so significant that it alters the essential nature of the goods, services, facilities, privileges, advantages, or accommodations offered. If a public entity can demonstrate that the modification would fundamentally alter the nature of its service, program, or activity, it is not required to make the modification. If a public accommodation (private entity) can demonstrate that a modification would fundamentally alter the nature of the goods, services, facilities, privileges, advantages, or accommodations it provides, it is not required to make the modification.

Architectural barriers are obstacles or other features in the built environment that impede individuals with disabilities from gaining full and complete access to the goods and services being provided.

Architectural Barriers Act (ABA) addresses scoping and technical requirements for accessibility to sites, facilities, buildings, and elements by individuals with disabilities.

Readily achievable refers to an undertaking that is easily accomplished and able to be carried out without much difficulty or expense. Public accommodations are required to remove barriers when it is readily achievable to do so.

Accessibility in the Commercial Restroom

When designing an ADA compliant public restroom, architectural design firms, property managers and facility directors, can be assured that Scranton Products bathroom partitions provide the most material choices, features, and options to meet your highest design and ADA compliance requirements.

To learn more about our ADA compliant products, or to find a dealer in your location, visit our website: https://www.scrantonproducts.com/where-to-buy/

Tracking The Trends – Charter Schools Take The Lead

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Parents in 2017 have several options available to them when it comes to the education of their children. Public schools, traditional and online; privately owned and funded academies; homeschooling; and finally charter and magnet schools, are the options of today. All of these schools are vying for parents’ attention and for available funding. Each have their pros and cons, and although public schools are still the most widely chosen of the options, charter and magnet schools are bright and eager up and comers in the education marketplace. Competition for the mix of public and private funds is stiff, and the pressure is on to perform.

The Pressure Is On For Charter & Magnet Schools To Get High Marks From Parents

Charter and magnet schools, though operated similarly to public schools, are relative newcomers as viable educational venues. They offer specialized curriculum and are often tasked to out-perform traditional public schools in several key areas, including concept and design. Drawing from a mix of public, secure funding as well as private funds, many charter schools now have more options. One of the areas that charter schools can shine is in school design.

You Only Get One Chance To Make That First Impression

As the old adage goes, you only get one chance to make a first impression. Many parents and visitors are touring your school more than ever, and the impression your school makes can impact your school’s opportunity to gain new students. One of the first areas they view is the hallway, and a bright, modern, clean and open area are all positive elements that help make that first impression a good one.

With their superior aesthetics, Duralife Lockers® are sure to make an impact in your hallways. The sleek, clean, modern design and bright color options such as yellow, red and royal blue instantly make a positive statement about your school, while design details such as flush venting and recessed handles, reinforce the clean, updated look.

Unlike metal lockers, Duralife Lockers® stay attractive throughout their lifetime. Made with solid-core HDPE, Duralife Lockers® are highly resistant to impacts, dents and scratches; graffiti wipes off easily; and the non-porous surface resists bacteria, mold and mildew. Another big plus is that HDPE lockers never need painting, making them the low maintenance, smart “green” choice.  As you can see, Duralife Lockers® impress on many levels, and are fast becoming the choice for the busy hallways of today’s well-designed schools.

View our case study that highlights the reasons why this charter school made the smart decision to install Duralife Lockers® in their school. If you need more information, please contact one of our sales specialists to learn more. https://www.scrantonproducts.com/contact/

Just Say NO – To Germs!

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When it comes to a career in the healthcare industry, fighting against germs is an everyday challenge. Even with the all of the quality control measures hospitals and clinics take on a daily basis, germs still present an ever-present risk to good health. We can’t address all the surfaces healthcare workers and clinicians come in contact with every day, but we do have a solution for storing lab coats, scrubs and uniforms. Tufftec healthcare lockers provide an answer for minimizing MRSA, germs and mold due to its non porous HDPE surface.

 

HDPE – Naturally Germ Resistant Surface

While these lockers are designed to meet the healthcare industry’s needs for storage, Tufftec lockers not only meet that need, but exceeds it by creating lockers built from germ-resistant HDPE. The solid core makeup and properties of HDPE provide that much needed bacteria resistant surface that is impermeable to moisture. Since no moisture can permeate the surface, the locker surface can resist bacteria and provide a clean environment to store clothing.

Testing shows that within 24 hours 98% of MRSA bacteria naturally dies off of Tufftec HDPE Healthcare lockers without the use of any cleaning solutions. *

 

*Testing conducted by SiTU Biosciences LLC by the ISO 22196 methods

 

Heavy Metal Not The Right Choice For Healthcare

Outside of the scientific research that makes the case for using an HDPE product, the low maintenance and sustainability provided by HDPE are clear benefits that a traditional metal locker cannot boast. The lockers are impact and dent resistant, making them a better choice than metal in the busy healthcare industry. The 100% recyclable, HDPE materials withstand the harshest daily use, while remaining virtually maintenance free.

Read more about how Tufftec healthcare lockers were the right choice for a new patient care facility in Missouri.

Relevant Trends Driving School Design

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The technological, virtual and physical landscape of the public school system has changed and advanced in many ways since the beginning of the new millennium. We have seen new products, and changes to the services and standards in the educational space evolve over the last 20 years. Add to that the way a student learns in school, as well as how they interact with their educational environment, and the conditions are ripe for change. Here, we are highlighting a few key trends that are relevant to driving school design and shaping it to fit 21st century learning.

Technology And Learning

Many public schools are repurposing the additional space within classrooms that used to house bulky computers and wiring. With the advancements in wireless technology, the PCs are replaced with slimmer laptops and devices that students can easily transport inside and outside the classroom. Desks with power ports are being installed to better access the technology. This additional mobility allows for more versatility in how and where a student learns.

 

Converting Corridors Into Public Spaces

Where hallways were once the main thoroughfares, in some public schools those corridors are being modernized to make way for common seating areas. These areas are proving to be a positive addition to the social and educational behavior of the students.

Flexible Configurations In The Classroom

The traditional square classroom with uniform desk setup is evolving as well. No longer are students and teachers relegated to a desk and chair in a set matrix. Many schools are opting for a flexible learning area where the layout allows for an easier flow into adjoining spaces. Having the ability to rearrange the configuration in a classroom is allowing teachers to foster collaboration and encourage group learning.

Goal to Go Green

Many schools across the country have committed to using sustainable products and making smart use of resources. They are also selecting materials that support excellent air quality and a healthy indoor environment for students. Many schools are taking their commitment very seriously and are working towards a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Certification.

Sustainable Solutions

Scranton Products Duralife Lockers® are the sustainable solution for schools looking to support a healthier environment. Our HDPE products are made in part from recycled materials and are 100% recyclable, helping to reduce environmental impact. The solid color needs no painting, so our products have a zero volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions rating, offering initial and long-term improvements to the indoor air quality of your projects. Duralife Lockers® are GREENGUARD Gold Certified, which meet the strict certification requirements for use in schools and can contribute to LEED certification.

Click to see where you can buy the right sustainable products near you. https://www.scrantonproducts.com/

5 Types of Locker Materials Compared

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Designing a facility and choosing the right materials is never an easy process. There are a lot of factors to be considered before ultimately deciding on the materials. This is especially important when it comes to choosing your facility’s lockers and storage compartments. Choosing the wrong material can be costly due to the poor quality or the overall weakness of the material.

Here are five different types of locker materials and how they compare.

Metal Lockers

Metal Lockers, or more specifically, cold-rolled steel, have been the standard for high schools for generations. They’re easily paintable to choose the optimal color for your facility’s décor, and they’re strong and reliable. But while metal lockers are widely popular and very common, it doesn’t mean that they’re the best choice for your facility.

The sad truth is that metal lockers appear to be a great option on the surface. However, down the road, they can be a costly choice. The metal can easily dent and scratch, and if located near a water source, they can even rust. The maintenance alone can outweigh the cost of the lockers. Not to mention, the sound of these lockers opening and closing isn’t the easiest on the ears.

Phenolic Lockers

Phenolic plastic lockers have proven to have their advantages when put to the test against metal in that they’re a little more durable and easier to clean. However, most phenolic plastic features a kraft paper core that’s susceptible to mold growth. Once the interior is compromised, a costly replacement is required.

Wood Lockers

Nothing beats the rustic aesthetic of wood. This material has been utilized for centuries and is still widely used today. But when it comes to locker materials, wood doesn’t rank high on the list of quality. Of course, wood has its classic appearance, but unfortunately, man-made products outweigh wood in durability. Wood can chip, or worse, become water logged. In order to prevent the wear and tear, it’s best to avoid wood altogether when it comes to locker materials.

Laminate Lockers

Laminate is one of the stronger materials in this list because it’s proven itself to be more durable than metal and wood. It doesn’t dent like metal or become water logged like wood. However, depending on their location, it can delaminate and become susceptible to a variety of wear and tear. In that case, maintenance and repairs can become costly.

HDPE Plastic Lockers

HDPE (high-density polyethylene) is a solid plastic that’s highly durable. It’s impact-, dent-, scratch-, and graffiti-resistant. Due to the solid plastic construction, it can even resist mold growth. Another huge item in the pros column is that this material features a homogenous color that doesn’t require any repainting, making this one of the more sustainable and low-maintenance materials available.

The choice of locker materials in your facility is entirely your call. However, you know the benefits and drawbacks of each of these materials, so make your choice wisely.

Would you like to learn more about the benefits of choosing HDPE lockers? Check out this free eBook, The Ultimate Guide to HDPE Plastic Lockers, courtesy of Scranton Products.