Glass Display Cabinets FAQs
The Definitive Guide to Glass Display Cabinets:
Safety, Specs & Security
When investing in a display cabinet, specific technical details matter. From BS EN safety standards and Kelvin lighting temperatures to cylinder lock security, this guide covers every specification. Backed by 45+ years of manufacturing expertise, Displaysense helps you choose with confidence.
At a Glance: Specification Comparison
| Cabinet Type | Glass Rating | Max Load (UDL) | Best Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upright (Standard) | Tempered Safety | 8kg - 12kg | Home Collections & Lego |
| Heavy Duty Retail | Reinforced Tempered | 15kg - 25kg | High-Value Retail Merchandise |
| Wall Mounted | Tempered Safety | 5kg - 8kg | Small Collectibles & Vapes |
| Counter Display | Toughened Top | 15kg+ | Point of Sale & Jewellery |
1. Glass Safety Standards & Thickness
Is your glass compliant with BS EN 12150?
Yes. All Displaysense cabinets exceed BS EN 12150 standards.
We do not use standard "annealed" glass, which poses a severe injury risk if broken. Instead, we use Thermally Toughened Safety Glass. This undergoes a heating and rapid cooling process that makes it up to 500% stronger than regular glass. If impacted with significant force, it crumbles into small, blunt granular chunks (dicing) rather than dangerous jagged shards.
What thickness of glass is used?
Glass thickness varies by structural requirement:
- Shelves: Typically 5mm - 8mm thick to support heavy loads without bowing.
- Doors & Side Panels: Typically 4mm - 5mm to reduce the overall weight of the door on the hinges, ensuring smooth operation.
Can I drill holes in the glass?
No, you cannot drill tempered glass.
Because the glass is under tension (which gives it its strength), attempting to drill or cut it will cause the entire pane to shatter instantly. Any modifications must be done at the manufacturing stage before the tempering process.
Do the glass edges have sharp corners?
No, all edges are polished.
We use a machine-polishing process on all exposed glass edges. This removes sharpness and creates a smooth, safe finish, essential for home environments with children or high-traffic retail spaces.
What is 'Low Iron' glass?
Low Iron glass offers superior clarity.
Standard glass has a slight green tint, visible at the edges. Low Iron glass has reduced iron content, making it ultra-clear. While standard tempered glass is used on most models, premium ranges may offer Low Iron options for high-end jewellery displays.
Does the glass block UV light?
Tempered glass offers partial UV protection, but not 100%.
While it blocks some UVB rays, it does not block all UVA rays. To prevent fading of sensitive items (like comic books or fabrics), we recommend keeping the cabinet out of direct sunlight and using our UV-free LED lighting systems.
2. Load Capacity & Shelving Specs
What is the 'Uniformly Distributed Load' (UDL)?
UDL defines the safe weight limit across the full shelf surface.
When we state a shelf holds "up to 12kg," this assumes the weight is spread evenly (e.g., 10 small figurines). Placing a single 12kg item in the exact dead centre of a glass shelf creates a "point load" which can stress the glass. Heavy items should be placed near the supports.
Are the shelves adjustable?
Yes, on the majority of our upright cabinets.
We use a robust shelf-pin system or adjustable shelf ladders. This allows you to customize the vertical space between shelves, typically in increments of 3cm-5cm. This is essential for collectors with items of varying heights.
Can I buy extra shelves?
We do not sell extra glass shelves separately.
However, because the shelving is typically standard toughened glass, a local glazier can easily cut these to size for you. We may be able to supply additional shelf supports (metal fittings) at a cost—please contact our support team to check availability for your specific model.
What are the shelf supports made of?
We use steel or high-grade alloy supports.
Cheap imported cabinets often use plastic clips which become brittle and snap over time. Our metal supports ensure long-term structural integrity and safety for your collection.
How do I prevent glass shelves from slipping?
Our supports include rubber or silicone grommets.
These create friction between the metal support and the glass shelf, preventing it from sliding when the cabinet is bumped or when items are moved.
Can I store heavy die-cast models?
Yes, provided you adhere to the UDL.
For dense collections like die-cast cars, we recommend our Heavy Duty ranges which feature thicker glass (8mm) and reinforced supports capable of holding 15kg-20kg per shelf.
Expert Insight:
"Always check the Kelvin rating."
Many retailers don't specify their light colour. We aim for 4000K-6000K (Daylight White) because 'Warm White' can make clean modern displays look yellow, while 'Cool White' can look too clinical for home use.
3. Lighting Technology & Preservation
Will lighting fade or damage my collection?
Not if you use our LED systems.
Old halogen bulbs emit high heat and UV radiation, which can discolor fabrics, yellow plastics (yellowing LEGO), and warp wood. Displaysense cabinets utilize Cold-Running LEDs. These emit zero UV and almost no heat, ensuring museum-grade preservation.
What is the Colour Temperature (Kelvin)?
Our LEDs are calibrated to 'Daylight White' (approx 4000K - 6000K).
This colour temperature provides a crisp, clean light that renders colours accurately. It avoids the yellow tint of 'Warm White' and the blue tint of 'Cool White', making it the retail standard for showcasing merchandise.
How are the lights powered?
Most units use a standard UK 3-pin mains plug.
Each lit cabinet comes with a transformer/driver included. The cable length is typically 1.5m - 2m. We also offer battery-operated LED spotlights for cabinets placed away from power sockets.
Are the bulbs replaceable?
This depends on the model.
For cabinets with bulb fittings (GU10/MR16), bulbs are replaceable. For cabinets with integrated LED strips, the diodes are built-in for a 20,000+ hour lifespan and are not user-replaceable, though drivers can be replaced.
Do I need a PAT test for these lights?
For home use, no. For commercial use, yes.
If you are installing these in a workplace or public area (shop, school, office), UK regulations require Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) for all electrical items plugged into the mains.
Where is the light switch located?
Usually a floor switch or rocker switch.
Most floor-standing cabinets feature a foot-operated floor switch for easy access. Counter units typically have a rocker switch located on the internal cable.
4. Security & Access Control
How secure are the locks?
We use Barrel Cylinder Locks for superior security.
Unlike basic sliding latches found on budget cabinets, our retail and home cabinets feature integrated steel barrel locks. These provide a strong deterrent against theft in shops or curiosity in homes.
Can I get replacement keys?
We do not supply replacement keys.
For security reasons, we do not hold master keys or replacement cylinders. We recommend visiting a local locksmith, who can usually cut a key from the code on the barrel or replace the cylinder entirely if keys are lost.
Do I need to secure the cabinet to the wall?
We strongly recommend using Anti-Topple Fixings.
Tall, narrow cabinets can be top-heavy, especially when doors are open. We include or recommend wall straps/brackets to anchor the unit, which is critical for safety in homes with children or busy retail environments.
Are hinged or sliding doors more secure?
Hinged doors are generally more secure.
Hinged doors close flush against the frame and lock tightly. Sliding doors have a small gap between the panes to allow movement, which can technically be a weak point for dust ingress or forced entry, though both are secure for standard use.
Can I have keyed-alike locks?
Available on bulk commercial orders.
For large retail fit-outs, we can organize keyed-alike cylinders so staff only need one key for multiple cabinets. Contact our sales team for this specific requirement.
Is the glass break-proof?
No glass is 100% break-proof.
However, tempered glass is highly impact-resistant. It will withstand knocks, bumps, and reasonable pressure that would shatter standard glass immediately. If you need something for storing trophies, consider our trophy cabinets.
5. Material Durability (Aluminium vs MDF)
Why choose Anodised Aluminium?
Anodised Aluminium is the gold standard for high-traffic durability.
The anodising process creates an oxide layer that renders the metal highly resistant to corrosion, scratches, and wear. It is lightweight yet structurally rigid, making it ideal for retail stores.
Is MDF better than solid wood?
For display cabinets, MDF is often superior to solid wood.
Solid wood expands and contracts with humidity changes, which can cause glass to crack under tension. High-grade MDF with a veneer finish is chemically stable, ensuring the glass remains secure regardless of room temperature. Check out our black display cabinets which often use this material.
Are the cabinets fire retardant?
Glass and Aluminium are naturally fire-resistant.
For MDF components, standard furniture regulations apply. If you require specific fire ratings for a commercial venue (e.g., airports or exhibitions), please check the specific product datasheet.
How do I level the cabinet on uneven floors?
Use the adjustable feet.
Most of our floor-standing units come with screw-in levelling feet. It is vital to adjust these until the cabinet is perfectly vertical; otherwise, the doors may misalign or not close properly.
Can I add wheels (castors)?
Only on specific models.
Some of our retail cabinets come with lockable castors. We do not recommend adding aftermarket wheels to standard cabinets as this changes the centre of gravity and can make the unit unstable.
How should I clean the materials?
Use non-abrasive cleaners.
For the glass, a standard glass cleaner is fine. For Aluminium and MDF, use a damp microfibre cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or scouring pads which can damage the anodised finish or veneer.
6. Logistics, Assembly & Delivery
Flat-Pack vs. Pre-Assembled: Which is right for me?
Flat-Pack is the most cost-effective option and is essential if your cabinet needs to go upstairs or through narrow doorways. Pre-Assembled (delivered on a pallet) is ideal for businesses that need immediate setup without labour costs.
What does 'Kerbside Delivery' mean?
For large or palletised orders (assembled or flat-packed), the driver is insured for kerbside delivery only.
The driver cannot enter your property, climb stairs, or unbox items. The pallet will be unloaded onto the nearest hard-standing surface (kerb or driveway). Please ensure you have sufficient help to move the cabinet inside immediately.
How long does assembly take?
Typically 45 - 90 minutes for two people.
Glass cabinets are heavy and require two people to assemble safely. We provide clear instructions, but we recommend setting aside enough time and space to build it carefully.
What tools will I need?
Usually just a screwdriver (Pozi/Phillips) and a mallet.
Allen keys are typically provided in the box. We recommend using a manual screwdriver rather than a high-powered drill to avoid over-tightening bolts against the glass.
How heavy are the boxes?
They can be very heavy (30kg - 80kg total).
Large cabinets are often split into 2 or 3 boxes to make handling easier. However, the box containing the glass panels will still be significant. Ensure you have help lifting them.
How do I dispose of the packaging?
All our cardboard packaging is 100% recyclable.
We use robust packaging to protect the glass, which includes polystyrene and timber corner protectors. Please recycle the cardboard at your local facility.
The Displaysense Difference: Why We Are #1
Many online retailers are just "box shifters" of generic imported stock. Displaysense is different. We are a UK manufacturer with a dedicated design team, ensuring every product is built to commercial standards.
Proprietary Design
We own our mouldings and designs. You won't find our specific reinforced profiles anywhere else.
Architectural Grade Aluminium
We use 6063-T5 Grade Aluminium for our frames—the same grade used in architectural window frames for maximum rigidity.
Safety Exceeding Standards
We don't just meet the BS EN 12150 standard; we exceed it with rigorous impact testing on every batch.
Expert UK Support
Our UK-based team is here for the long haul. Whether you need assembly advice today or guidance on product care in five years, you speak to real experts, not a chatbot.
Find Your Perfect Display
Browse our extensive range of safety-tested cabinets, crafted for homes, retail, and exhibitions.
View All Cabinets45+ Years Expertise
Established industry leaders in display solutions since 1978.
Own-Brand Design
We manufacture our own products to ensure strict quality control.
Certified Safety
BS EN 12150 Compliant Tempered Glass for total peace of mind.
UK Support Team
Expert advice and spare parts available directly from our UK warehouse.