What's the Best Finish for Shelves in a Walk-In Cooler/Freezer?
(or any damp environment)

This is the number one question we get asked. And it's a good one, because if you choose the wrong finish, you could end up paying more for it down the road.

These suggestions are not only applicable to walk-in coolers or freezers, but if you live in a high humidity area, like Florida, Hawaii, etc., then these suggestions will help you out, as well.

#1

Starting off in the number one position – the best all around finish is Stainless Steel. It is suitable for any application and will last a lifetime – literally.

PRO's:
  • It's impervious to water (indirect or direct contant), most chemicals, and abrasion (within reason, of course)
  • Lifetime warranty against rust and corrosion
  • 304 stainless steel with a gorgeous polished satin finish
CON's:
  • Let's be honest – it's expensive! So unless you're made of money, you may want to keep reading. However, that's the only con of this product. It's that good!

#2

Coming in at #2, the next best finish to use in a damp environment is the Nexelon finish. It has a dark, metallic blue color that can only be described as “lustrous”. This shelving would look good anywhere, but we're just talking coolers/freezers here. This finish will stand up to temperature extremes and damp environments.

PRO's:
  • About 1/2 the price of stainless steel!
  • Limited lifetime warranty against rust and corrosion
  • A beautiful looking and durable finish
  • Includes NexGARD™, an anti-microbial agent that protects the finish against bacteria, mold, and mildew that cause stains
CON's:
  • Won't stand up to abrasive content, so don't store cement core samples on it (don't laugh – it's happened)
  • Not for use with direct water contact

#3

In the number 3 position, we have both the Poly-Z-Brite and Poly-Green finishes. The only difference between the two is the color. Florists tend to go with the green, while ice cream vendors tend to prefer the silver Poly, but you can use whichever one you want.

PRO's:
  • 15 year limited warranty against rust and corrosion
  • Also includes NexGARD™ – the anti-microbial agent that protects against bacteria, mold, and mildew
CON's:
  • Not for use with direct water contact

#4

A close 4th place goes to Black Epoxy and Silver Epoxy (aka Nexelate™). Both have an attractive, baked-on enamel finish that's durable and suitable for damp environments. Since all of these finishes tend to last a lot longer than the warranty duration, this is probably the best deal going!

PRO's:
  • 7 year limited warranty against rust and corrosion
  • The least expensive of all the finishes
CON's:
  • does not include NexGARD™
  • Again, not for use with direct water contact

#5

And in last place, we have... chrome! Even though chrome is a fantastic and beautiful finish, and it's the most popular finish we sell, it's not suitable for a damp environment. It might last a year or two before it starts to rust, but eventually it will. And being that the Epoxy finish costs less than chrome, why even contemplate using it if you're concerned at all about rust?

CON's:
  • no warranty against rust and corrosion
  • more expensive than the Epoxy finishes
PRO's:
  • perfect for office or warehouse environments
  • toughest finish available, second only to stainless steel

Final Thoughts

Keep in mind that stainless steel is the only finish suitable for, and warranted against, direct water contact. So if you have a sprinkled environment, or you want to hose down your potted plants with them still on the shelves, you may void the warranty doing that with another finish. The manufacturer usually requests a sample to determine if it was used inappropriately, so keep that in mind before you break out the hose. Just a little heads up to keep you out of the dog house if you should ever need to collect on the warranty.

For a full explanation of all warranties, see the manufacturer's literature or website.

And don't forget about our 100% Cash Back Rebate, where you can be refunded up to 100% of your purchase price simply for telling others about us! No foolin'!

 

Trust Superior Shelving for all your storage needs. Since 1969 – and still going strong!