Tag Archive for: improve air quality

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!

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.

Why HDPE Is a Superior Material

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HDPE (high-density polyethylene) is a durable solid plastic that has a variety of applications. Most notably, HDPE is used for bathroom partitions and stalls, commercial lockers and student lockers within educational facilities. Many businesses and schools have implemented HDPE materials with amazing results. So, why is HDPE being considered a super material for facilities?

Durability

As a facility manager, when it comes time for remodeling and renovations, you need to think ahead. Choosing a highly durable material has its advantages because you want the material lasting throughout the years without having to pay a fortune for replacements. HDPE has proven to be a stronger, more stable material than most plastics, wood, and even metal. It’s impact-resistant, so it can stand up to the pressures and elements of your facility.

When you choose HDPE, you no longer have to worry about any exterior damages. HDPE won’t scratch or dent, so you don’t have to have replacements on-hand. You don’t even have to worry about graffiti, because with HDPE, it can be easily wiped away.

Improving Air Quality

One of the main reasons why HDPE materials are utilized as restroom stalls is because it not only provides security and privacy, but it can also help keep the air quality high. Restrooms are a hotbed of moisture and humidity. Most plastic partitions have a kraft paper or cardboard core that can become moist, and eventually will sprout mold. Mold will not only lower the air quality, but it’ll result in a pungent odor that won’t be corrected with air fresheners.

When standard plastic partitions have mold sprouting inside of them, it’s too late, and they’ll have to be replaced in order to get rid of the mold. HDPE, on the other hand, resists mold growth because of its solid plastic construction. Because mold can’t grow in HDPE partitions, your air quality won’t drop, and you won’t have to replace your partitions anytime soon.

Low Maintenance

One phrase that facility managers love to hear is “low maintenance.” HDPE plastic doesn’t require a lot of upkeep. Because it’s a highly durable material, it doesn’t get the normal wear and tear that most materials get. In fact, it can outlast most plastics and won’t rust like metal. It doesn’t even require any fresh coats of paint because of its homogenous coloring. All that HDPE requires is a light cleaning every now and again.

Sustainability

Another major benefit to HDPE is that it’s made from 100% post-consumer recycled material. They’re even recyclable themselves. You can effectively take your facility in a greener, more eco-friendly direction by installing HDPE lockers and partitions. Because it doesn’t require new coats of paint, you greatly reduce the risk of VOC (volatile organic compound) emissions in the air, which can reduce the quality and have a negative effect on occupant health.

 

To learn more about why HDPE is a superior material, download our FREE eBook, The Ultimate Guide to HDPE Plastic Lockers, or contact us at Scranton Products.

HDPE Toilet Partitions: Everything You Need to Know When Choosing Plastic Partitions

If you’re going through a much-needed renovation of your facility’s restroom, or if you’re planning out a new facility, it’s crucial to choose the right materials to ensure safety and security for the occupants. When it comes to replacing toilet partitions, there are numerous types of material that can be suitable for the job. However, depending on the material you choose, you may have to replace them sooner than later.

What Is HDPE?

HDPE (high-density polyethylene) is a solid plastic material that can be used for a variety of uses. Due to its solid construction, it proves to be highly durable and even resistant to scratches, dents, and impacts. Its homogenous color makes it resistant to graffiti, which is a common scourge with bathroom stalls. HDPE actually has several advantages over other materials that are commonly used with toilet partitions in commercial bathrooms.

Other Toilet Partition Materials

As you’ve probably noticed, not all restrooms are the same, especially when it comes to their partitions and stalls. Most toilet stalls are made from phenolic and plastic laminate, which on the surface can appear to be suitable materials. However, there are a few drawbacks.

Plastic laminate and phenolic aren’t resistant to scratches, dents, and graffiti. But, one of their weakest attributes is the interior core. Due to restroom location, these toilet partitions are subjected to constant exposure to humidity and moisture. Over a brief period of time, their core interior can actually begin to sprout mold. Once mold has taken over the interior, they need to be replaced immediately, because the mold not only reduces air quality, but it can also lead to respiratory issues with your occupants.

Why HDPE Is a Better Pick

One of the major advantages that HDPE has over traditional plastics and laminates is that it has a solid body construction, allowing it to bask in the humidity and moisture without the threat of mold growth. Because it stands up to the elements and mold, it helps keep the air quality in the restroom safe and clean. Other materials would need a costly replacement if the presence of mold is detected.

HDPE is also stronger than the other toilet partition materials. It can take a few hits and still retain its overall aesthetic. During the presence of graffiti, other materials need to be repainted, which results in VOC (volatile organic compounds) emissions, reducing the air quality. Graffiti on HDPE materials can simply be wiped away.

Lower Maintenance Costs

Another major benefit to choosing HDPE over other plastics is that it’s relatively low maintenance. It doesn’t require a fresh coat of paint or any replacement parts. Other plastics go through plenty of wear and tear; not only do they need a lot of upkeep, but sometimes, they need to be replaced entirely. HDPE just needs to be cleaned every once in a while. HDPE toilet partitions are generally low maintenance and worry free.

 

Are you looking to make the jump to HDPE? Check out The Professional’s Guide to Commercial Bathroom Renovations and Remodels or Choosing Bathroom Materials eBooks, courtesy of Scranton Products.