General guidelines for assembling office furniture products
Introduction to Office Furniture Assembly
This guide provides general directions for assembling Office Elements furniture products. Always refer to the specific product manual included with your purchase for detailed, product-specific instructions.
Important: Before beginning assembly, verify that all parts are included and undamaged. Contact our support team immediately if any parts are missing or damaged.
General Assembly Preparation
Required Tools
Most Office Elements furniture products require minimal tools for assembly. The following tools are commonly needed:
Phillips screwdriver
Flat-head screwdriver
Allen wrench (typically included with the product)
Rubber mallet (for non-threaded connections)
Adjustable wrench
Workspace Preparation
Before beginning assembly:
Clear a flat, clean workspace with adequate lighting
Lay down a blanket or cardboard to protect both the floor and product surfaces
Arrange all components according to the parts list in your product-specific manual
Sort hardware (screws, bolts, washers) by type to avoid confusion
Tip: Take a photo of all components before beginning assembly. This can be helpful for reference if you need to contact customer support.
General Assembly Guidelines by Furniture Type
Desks and Tables
Always attach legs or supports to the underside of the work surface first
For adjustable-height desks, ensure the lifting mechanism is properly secured before attaching the work surface
Tighten all fasteners gradually in an alternating pattern (similar to tightening car wheel lug nuts) to ensure even pressure
Install wire management components after the main structure is assembled
Office Chairs
Assemble the base and wheels first
Install the gas lift cylinder into the base
Attach the seat mechanism to the seat cushion before mounting on the cylinder
For chairs with armrests, attach them after the backrest is secured
Adjust all tension settings after assembly is complete
Filing Cabinets and Storage
Assemble the outer frame first, ensuring it's square before attaching backing
Install drawer slides before assembling drawers
For units with doors, attach hinges to the doors before mounting to the cabinet
Add adjustable shelving after the main structure is complete
Install locks and handles last
Cubicles and Partitions
Begin with corner posts or connectors as your anchor points
Attach panels in sequence, securing each completely before moving to the next
Install levelers at the base to accommodate uneven floors
Add work surfaces after all panels are properly positioned and secured
Install electrical and data routing components according to local building codes
Warning: Panel systems and large storage units must be properly secured to prevent tipping. Follow all anchoring instructions provided with your specific product.
Common Assembly Challenges and Solutions
Issue
Possible Cause
Solution
Parts don't align properly
Component orientation incorrect
Double-check the orientation against diagram in manual; verify you're using the correct part
Screws won't tighten fully
Cross-threading or incorrect screw
Back out the screw and realign before reinserting; verify you're using the correct hardware
Drawers don't slide smoothly
Drawer slides not aligned
Loosen slide mounting screws, adjust alignment, then retighten
Wobbling or uneven furniture
Uneven floor or loose fasteners
Adjust leveling feet if available; verify all fasteners are fully tightened
Finish damaged during assembly
Improper handling or tool usage
Contact customer service for touch-up options; use felt pads on tools for future assemblies
After Assembly
Final Adjustments
Verify all moving parts operate smoothly (drawers, doors, height adjustments)
Check that all fasteners are fully tightened
Adjust levelers to ensure stability on your floor surface
Clean any fingerprints or marks using appropriate cleaning products
Weight Capacities and Safety
Always observe the weight capacity ratings for your furniture:
Standard desk work surfaces: 150-200 lbs distributed weight
Shelving units: 50-75 lbs per shelf (verify specific ratings in product manual)
File drawers: 45-65 lbs when fully extended
Warning: Exceeding weight capacities can lead to structural failure and possible injury. Never stand on office furniture or use it for purposes other than intended.
Warranty Information
Office Elements provides warranties for our furniture products as follows:
Desks and workstations: 5-year limited warranty
Office chairs: 3-year limited warranty on mechanisms; 1-year on upholstery
Filing and storage: 7-year limited warranty
Accessories: 1-year limited warranty
Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. Warranty does not cover:
Damage caused by improper assembly
Normal wear and tear
Damage from misuse or abuse
Changes in surface finishes due to aging or exposure to light
To make a warranty claim, please contact our customer service department with your original purchase information and photos of the issue.
Getting Help
If you encounter any difficulties during assembly: