Display Cabinets Direct - Frequently Asked Questions

Our display cabinets are crafted from a high-quality selection of materials, including tempered glass for safety and durability, solid hardwood and high-grade MDF for the frames, and stainless steel for the hardware. This ensures both the beauty and longevity of our pieces. For our Aluminium Framed cabinets there is also the anodised aluminium profile as well as HDF infill solid panels. Our Metal framed ranges such as the Bravura and the Precision range are Iron framed.

We offer several glass options to suit different needs: Tempered Glass: 4-5 times stronger than regular glass, shatters into small safe pieces if broken. Standard on most cabinets. Laminated Safety Glass: Holds together if broken, blocks 99% of UV rays. Ideal for valuable or light-sensitive items. Low-Iron Glass (Ultra Clear): Removes the green tint found in standard glass, providing exceptional clarity and true colour representation. Anti-Reflective Glass: Less than 1% reflectance compared to 8% for standard glass. Perfect for museums and galleries where viewing quality is paramount.

Yes, we are happy to accommodate custom size requests to ensure that your display cabinet fits perfectly in your desired space. Please contact us with your specifications, and we'll ask you some questions and then provide you with a quote for costs and a timeframe for production. Custom sizing is available on most of our ranges, allowing you to specify exact width, height, and depth dimensions.

We do offer a bespoke cabinet service. As an alternative to a fully bespoke design, on many of our ranges we can modify aspects of the cabinet to meet your requirements. On customisable products you can choose: • Size (W x H x D) • Standard or low iron (ultra clear) glass • Adjustable shelves • Additional shelves • Back panel materials • Sliding or hinged lockable doors • Additional lighting • Colours and veneer options Other adaptations may be possible depending on the range.

This is possible on many of our ranges. On these products you can customise: • Size (W x H x D) • Standard or low iron (ultra clear) glass • Choose adjustable shelves • Additional shelves • Back panel materials • Sliding or hinged lockable doors • Additional lighting • Colours and veneer options Please contact us to discuss your specific requirements.

We offer integrated LED lighting solutions across most of our cabinet ranges. Options include: Top-mounted LED strips: Illuminate from above for general lighting. Shelf-integrated LEDs: Built into each shelf for even illumination at every level. Spotlight options: Focused lighting to highlight specific items. Colour temperature choices: Warm white (2700-3000K) for traditional settings, or cool white (4000-5000K) for modern retail and museum displays. All our LED systems are low-heat and energy-efficient, making them safe for sensitive items and cost-effective to run.

Security is paramount for protecting valuable displays. Our cabinets offer various security features: Locking mechanisms: Key locks, concealed locks, and multi-point locking systems. Tempered or laminated glass: Significantly more resistant to breakage than standard glass. Anti-bandit glass: Available for high-security applications, meeting EN 356 standards. Concealed hinges: Prevents tampering from outside. Alarm compatibility: Some models can be fitted with vibration sensors or connected to alarm systems.

Our tempered glass shelves are designed to support substantial weight, typically between 15-30kg per shelf depending on the cabinet model and shelf size. Thicker glass (8mm-10mm) provides greater load capacity. For heavier items such as trophies, sculptures, or dense collectibles, we recommend: • Distributing weight evenly across the shelf • Using wider shelves where possible • Considering reinforced shelving options Please contact us if you have specific weight requirements and we can advise on the best solution.

We offer display cabinets in a comprehensive range of sizes to suit any space: Countertop cabinets: From 300mm to 900mm wide Floor-standing cabinets: Heights from 900mm to 2100mm, widths from 500mm to 2000mm+ Wall-mounted cabinets: Various sizes to fit different wall spaces Tower/pedestal displays: Perfect for focal points and individual items If you can't find the exact size you need, our custom sizing service can create a cabinet to your precise specifications.

Most products can be ordered online directly through our website. However, we know that this may not always be possible or be the desired method of ordering. Additionally, bespoke cabinets cannot be purchased through the website. In these instances the path to ordering will include: 1) Please call or email us with your requirements. 2) We will send you a quotation. For larger orders or bespoke cabinets this may consist of a series of informal quotations followed by a formal one once the order content is agreed. Standard product quotations are usually sent within 24 hours (excluding weekends). 3) Once you're happy to proceed, send an email to confirm acceptance or click the accept quotation button on the online quotation. 4) We will email you a PRO-FORMA INVOICE with payment methods and links. 5) Once we receive payment you'll receive confirmation that your order has been accepted and will proceed to production.

When ordering online you can make payment by credit or debit card through our secure checkout. If we have sent you an invoice, in addition to paying by card you can also make payment by bank transfer. The invoice will contain our bank details. Payment methods accepted: • Visa • Mastercard • American Express • Bank Transfer (BACS)

When we email a formal quotation, there is a link in the email to view the quotation online. In the online version you can select to accept the quotation. Once you have clicked on this button our system will show us that the quotation has been accepted and we will email you an invoice. Alternatively, you can email us with the quotation number and let us know that you wish to proceed with the order. Again, we will then email the invoice to you. From that invoice you can make an online payment by credit or debit card. The invoice will also contain our bank details if you would prefer to pay by bank transfer.

Yes of course. Just email us with your order number and contact details for us to check and we will send you a paid invoice for your records.

Yes, many companies require an invoice before they make payment. If this is the case, please contact us with the items you would like to order and we will prepare an invoice for you. This is common for: • Schools and educational institutions • Museums and galleries • Local authorities • NHS and healthcare organisations • Corporate businesses

We do not offer credit terms. Payment is required before orders are processed and dispatched. However, we understand that larger organisations may have specific payment processes, so please contact us to discuss your requirements.

Yes, all prices displayed on our website are inclusive of UK VAT at the standard rate (currently 20%). For VAT-exempt organisations or international customers, please contact us to discuss your requirements.

Yes, we offer preferential pricing for larger orders. We currently have a promotion: 10% off all orders over £1000 - Use Code: DCD-B-F-10 at checkout. For very large orders or ongoing supply arrangements, please contact us to discuss bespoke pricing.

Many of our cabinets are manufactured in Italy, others in the Netherlands, and so there are delivery costs associated with shipping. However, for most of our cabinets we have decided to offer free delivery to UK mainland, as it makes the ordering process simpler. We do have the right to charge extra delivery for Islands and Highlands as the FREE delivery is only for UK mainland. Our custom cabinets do have a custom delivery charge, and any delivery or shipping charged will ALWAYS be quoted prior to any job being ordered.

The majority of our cabinets are made to order, and some are manufactured in Italy and the Netherlands. Our lead times reflect the time to manufacture the cabinet, bring it to the UK (where applicable), and deliver it to you. Typical lead times: • Made-to-order cabinets: 6-10 weeks • Customised cabinets: 8-12 weeks • Bespoke designs: 10-14 weeks We have some cabinets which are held in stock in the UK and can be delivered in 5-7 working days.

Tailgate delivery means that the delivery vehicle will pull up near your premises and the driver will bring your goods to the back of the vehicle and offload onto the pavement where the back of the delivery vehicle is. You will then be responsible for moving your cabinet from there into your premises. This is the standard delivery method for most of our cabinets. The cabinets will be securely packaged for transport. If you require delivery to room of choice or installation, this is available as an additional service.

Whilst the majority of our cabinets are delivered within the period specified on the product page, occasionally delays can occur due to manufacturing schedules or shipping logistics. If your order is delayed: • We will proactively contact you to advise of any delays • We will provide updated delivery estimates • You can contact us at any time for an update on your order We understand that timing can be critical, especially for events or shop openings, so please let us know if you have a specific deadline.

We can deliver to Ireland, however the process is similar to delivering to Europe and there are special documentation requirements and additional costs. Please email us at info@display-cabinets-direct.co.uk for a quotation including delivery to Ireland.

Yes, we can ship to Europe and the Middle East. Shipping costs currently make it prohibitive to deliver to the USA, Canada and other locations. We can arrange shipping in 2 ways: 1) We can ship direct from the factory to your delivery address in Europe or the Middle East, or 2) We can provide you with details of the finished product's shipment size, weight and volume so you can organise shipping and insurance yourself. Please call and speak to one of our advisors if you are interested in having an item delivered outside the UK.

Many of our cabinets are manufactured in Italy, others in the Netherlands. The delivery charge covers shipping from the factory in those countries to you. Factors affecting shipping costs include: • The size and weight of the cabinet • Distance from our distribution points • Special handling requirements for glass items • Insurance and packaging • Remote location surcharges (Highlands, Islands) For UK mainland, we absorb most of these costs and offer free delivery on the majority of our products.

Yes, we can deliver to different levels other than ground floor but we do need to know about this as most deliveries are made using a tailgate service which is where our cabinets are delivered kerbside and you are responsible for taking the cabinet inside. We do offer an installation service which can include delivering and installing the cabinet in the room of your choice. The charge for the installation service would reflect such factors as access and the floor the cabinet is being installed on. If you are interested in this service please contact us with details of where the cabinet would need installing.

Our product range includes both cabinets that are supplied flat pack and require assembly, and those that are delivered fully assembled. The product description on each product will state whether an item is supplied fully assembled or will require assembly. Some of our custom larger units are assembled on site by our installation team.

Instructions are provided with those cabinets that require assembly. In our opinion a person with moderate DIY skills would be able to put these cabinets together. Larger cabinets would require two persons to put them together. Assembly typically involves: • Connecting frame sections • Installing glass panels and shelves • Fitting doors and locks • Connecting lighting (if applicable) We also provide video assembly guides for popular models.

No, for most cabinets all that would be required would be screwdrivers and allen keys. Many cabinets include the necessary allen keys in the packaging. For some larger installations you may benefit from having: • A spirit level • A soft mallet (for gentle adjustments) • A second pair of hands for lifting glass panels

Yes, we use fitters based in Northampton and Perth. We can install to locations within 100 miles of these places, with prices starting at £499. The charge will vary depending on factors such as: • Location and travel distance • Access to the property • The floor the cabinet is being installed on • Complexity of the installation However most of our display cabinets are designed for easy installation and come with assembly manuals. In some circumstances it may be more economical to hire a local professional to assist with the installation, and we can help point you in the right direction to find a competent installer.

Wall-mounted cabinets require proper fixing to ensure safety. Here's what you need to know: Wall type matters: • Solid brick/concrete: Use appropriate masonry fixings • Stud walls: Fix into studs where possible, or use heavy-duty plasterboard fixings Weight considerations: • Check the cabinet weight plus intended contents • Distribute fixings evenly across the mounting points Professional installation: For heavier cabinets or if you're unsure about your wall type, we recommend professional installation. Contact us for advice or to arrange our installation service.

Most of our floor-standing cabinets include adjustable feet to help level the cabinet on uneven floors. To level your cabinet: 1) Place the cabinet in its final position 2) Use a spirit level on top of the cabinet 3) Adjust the feet by turning them clockwise (raise) or anti-clockwise (lower) 4) Check the level from front-to-back and side-to-side 5) Tighten any lock nuts once level is achieved Proper levelling ensures doors close correctly and the cabinet looks its best.

Museum-grade display cases meet specific conservation and security standards: Archival Materials: Non-off-gassing materials that pass the Oddy Test (tests for corrosive gases that could damage artefacts). Low Air Exchange Rate: 0.1-0.3 air changes per day compared to 10%+ for standard retail cases. This helps maintain stable internal conditions. Climate Control: Options for maintaining stable humidity and temperature levels. UV Protection: Glass that blocks harmful ultraviolet rays to prevent fading and deterioration. Security Features: Multi-point locking, concealed hinges, vibration sensors, and anti-bandit glass (EN 356 standards). Frameless Design: Glass appears to 'disappear' for unobstructed viewing.

Light damage is cumulative and irreversible. Here's how our cabinets help protect your artefacts: UV-Filtering Glass: Blocks harmful ultraviolet rays while maintaining visibility. Anti-Reflective Coatings: Reduce glare and the need for excessive lighting. LED Lighting: Low-heat, low-UV lighting systems that can be dimmed or timed. Positioning Advice: Place cabinets away from direct sunlight and windows. Light Levels: For sensitive items, we recommend maintaining light levels below 50 lux for textiles and works on paper, and below 200 lux for oil paintings and less sensitive materials.

Yes, we can supply display cases with climate control features for sensitive collections: Passive Climate Control: Silica gel trays and conditioning materials to buffer humidity changes. Active Climate Control: Integrated systems that maintain specific temperature and humidity levels. Sealed Cases: Very low air exchange rates to maintain stable internal environments. Climate control is essential for: • Paper and textile artefacts • Organic materials • Metal objects prone to corrosion • Historic photographs Please contact us to discuss your specific conservation requirements.

Air exchange rate (AER) measures how often the air inside a display case is replaced with outside air. Standard retail cases: 10%+ air changes per day - fine for commercial displays. Museum-grade cases: 0.3 air changes per day or lower - suitable for most collections. High-end conservation cases: 0.1 air changes per day (1 air change every 10 days) - for sensitive artefacts. Lower air exchange rates: • Maintain stable humidity and temperature • Reduce dust ingress • Protect against airborne pollutants • Allow conditioning materials to work effectively

Use Glass for: • Permanent collections • Large display cases • Uniform appearance across an exhibition • Long-term investment (25+ year lifespan) • Scratch resistance Use Acrylic for: • Short-term exhibits only (less than 2 years) • Smaller items and temporary displays • Situations requiring very light weight • Lower budget temporary exhibitions Important: Acrylic UV protection degrades after about 10 years, making it unsuitable for long-term display of sensitive items. Glass maintains its properties indefinitely.

The Oddy Test is a method used by museums to determine whether materials are safe to use near artefacts. It tests for the emission of corrosive gases that could damage sensitive objects. Our museum-grade cabinets use materials that have been tested and approved for use in conservation environments. This includes: • Powder-coated metals (not painted) • Conservation-grade adhesives • Inert gaskets and seals • Archival-quality backing materials If you have specific conservation requirements, please contact us to discuss material specifications.

Many lending institutions have specific requirements for display cases housing borrowed artefacts. Our museum-grade cases can be specified to meet: • Government Indemnity Scheme requirements • National museum lending standards • International loan standards Requirements typically include: • Specific security features (multi-point locking, anti-bandit glass) • Environmental controls or monitoring • UV filtering • Documented material specifications Please contact us with the specific requirements from your lending institution and we can advise on suitable options.

Glass display cases offer numerous advantages for retail environments: Enhanced Product Visibility: 360-degree views allow customers to see items from all angles. Protection: Shield products from dust, handling, and theft. Professional Appearance: Elevate your store's aesthetic and perceived value. Highlight Value: Perfect for jewellery, watches, collectibles, and premium merchandise. Impulse Purchases: Well-displayed items encourage spontaneous buying. Organised Merchandising: Keep products neat and orderly.

For jewellery displays, we recommend cabinets with: LED Lighting: Brings out the sparkle in gems and precious metals. Low-Iron Glass: Eliminates green tint for true colour representation. Lockable Doors: Essential security for valuable items. Velvet or Suede Inserts: Soft backgrounds that showcase jewellery beautifully. Counter-Height Options: Allow customers to view while staff assist. Full Extension Drawers: For secure access to items for customer viewing. We offer both freestanding showcases and countertop options suitable for jewellery retail.

Regular maintenance keeps your display cases looking their best: Glass Cleaning: • Use a soft, lint-free cloth with mild glass cleaner • Avoid abrasive materials or harsh chemicals • Clean inside and out for best appearance Frame Care: • Dust regularly with a soft cloth • For metal frames, use appropriate metal polish if needed • For wooden frames, use furniture polish sparingly Maintenance Checks: • Regularly check hinges and locks for smooth operation • Inspect for any damage or wear • Check LED lights are functioning correctly • Ensure shelves are secure

Yes, we offer a range of countertop and tabletop display cases perfect for: • Jewellery and watches • Small collectibles • Point-of-sale impulse items • Medals and small awards • Electronic accessories • Cosmetics and perfumes Our countertop cases come in various sizes and include options with: • Locking doors • LED lighting • Rotating bases • Multiple shelves

Effective visual merchandising can significantly impact sales: Lighting: Use LED lighting to draw attention and highlight products. Positioning: Place high-value items at eye level. Space: Don't overcrowd - allow items room to 'breathe'. Rotation: Change displays regularly to maintain customer interest. Focal Points: Create visual hierarchy with featured items. Colour: Use backdrop colours that complement your products. Cleanliness: Fingerprints and dust diminish impact - clean regularly.

The best cabinet depends on what you're displaying and where: Floor Cases: Ideal for trophies, plaques, and bulky memorabilia in libraries, entrance halls, and museums. Wall-Mounted Cases: Perfect for hallways, gyms, and high-traffic areas. Great for jerseys, photos, announcements, and awards. Tabletop Cases: Suited for flat items like medals, photographs, letters, and smaller awards. Tower Displays: Create focal points in lobbies and reception areas. Consider security (lockable doors), visibility (good lighting), and durability when choosing.

Key considerations for educational institutions: Shelving: Tempered glass is strong, heavy-duty, and easy to clean. Backing: Tackable vinyl in school colours, mirrors, or fabric to match branding. Frame: Aluminium for durability, or wood for a traditional look. Size: Measure available floor space and vertical clearance carefully. Security: Locking mechanisms to protect valuable trophies and awards. Accessibility: Consider how often items will be added or changed. Budget: We can provide quotes for multiple cabinets and offer discounts on larger orders.

Security is important for valuable school trophies and awards: Lockable Doors: All our trophy cabinets come with locking mechanisms. Tempered Glass: Much harder to break than standard glass. Key Management: Limit key access to authorised staff only. Positioning: Place cabinets in visible, monitored areas. Wall Mounting: Secure wall-mounted units properly to prevent removal. Insurance: Document contents with photographs for insurance purposes.

Yes, we supply display cabinets to sports clubs of all types including: • Football clubs • Rugby clubs • Cricket clubs • Golf clubs • Tennis clubs • Swimming clubs • Athletics clubs Our cabinets are perfect for displaying: • Trophies and cups • Championship medals • Historic photographs • Signed memorabilia • Team jerseys and kits • Honours boards

Jerseys and sports kits require special consideration: Wall-Mounted Cases: Frame-style displays that show the full jersey. UV Protection: Prevents fading of colours over time. Backing: Choose a colour that contrasts with the jersey. Lighting: LED lighting to highlight the display. Depth: Ensure the cabinet is deep enough for folded or 3D presentation. We can create custom jersey display cases to your specifications.

A quality display case protects your collection in several ways: Dust Protection: Sealed enclosures prevent dust buildup that can damage items over time. UV Protection: Special glass prevents fading and bleaching from sunlight. Physical Safety: Tempered or laminated glass prevents breakage damage. Humidity Buffer: Enclosed cases moderate humidity fluctuations. Security: Locks deter theft and prevent accidental handling. Organisation: Keeps your collection organised and easy to enjoy.

Glass Display Cases: • Premium clarity and traditional look • Longer lifespan (25+ years) • Scratch resistant • Better for permanent displays • Heavier and more expensive Acrylic/Plastic Cases: • Lighter weight • More affordable • Shatter-resistant (safer around children) • Good for temporary or frequently moved displays • Can scratch more easily • UV protection degrades over time For serious collectors with valuable items, we recommend glass for its superior long-term protection and appearance.

The right size depends on your collection: Small Figurines (10-15cm): Countertop cases or narrow wall cabinets with multiple shelves. Medium Models (20-40cm): Standard floor cabinets with adjustable shelving. Large Models (40cm+): Tall tower cabinets or custom-sized units. Growing Collections: Consider larger cabinets with extra shelf capacity. Tip: Measure your largest items first, and ensure the cabinet depth and shelf spacing can accommodate them. Allow space for your collection to grow.

Yes, we offer several options suitable for coin and medal collections: • Countertop cases with multiple shallow drawers • Wall-mounted display frames • Deep-frame cases for military medals with ribbons • Custom cases with specific compartment sizes For valuable numismatic collections, consider: • UV-filtering glass to prevent toning changes • Lockable doors for security • Low-humidity environments (some collectors add silica gel packets)

Sports memorabilia often includes items of different sizes and types: Signed Items: Use UV-protective glass to preserve signatures. Jerseys: Frame-style wall cases show them off best. Balls and Equipment: Consider cases with display stands or holders. Cards and Photos: Shallow cases or frames with good lighting. Trophies: Floor or wall cabinets with adjustable shelves. Authenticity Documents: Display alongside items where possible. We can help you plan a display that does justice to your collection.

You can reach us through several channels: Email: info@display-cabinets-direct.co.uk Phone: Call us during business hours (Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm) Contact Form: Use the form on our website Knowledge Base: Find answers to common questions We aim to respond to all enquiries within 24 hours during working days.

Our display cabinets come with manufacturer warranties that vary by product range: • Standard warranty: 1-2 years covering manufacturing defects • Some premium ranges: Extended warranties available • LED lighting: Typically 2-year warranty Warranties cover: • Manufacturing defects • Faulty components • Structural failures under normal use Warranties do not cover: • Damage from misuse or accidents • Normal wear and tear • Damage during self-assembly (if applicable) Please check individual product pages for specific warranty information.

We want you to be completely satisfied with your purchase: Standard Products: 14-day return period from delivery for unused items in original packaging. Custom/Bespoke Items: Made to your specifications and therefore non-returnable unless faulty. Faulty Items: Contact us immediately - we will arrange replacement or repair. Damaged in Transit: Report any damage within 48 hours of delivery with photographs. Return shipping costs may apply for change-of-mind returns. Please contact us before returning any item.

If your cabinet arrives damaged, please follow these steps: 1) Document the damage: Take clear photographs of the damage and packaging. 2) Note it on delivery: If possible, note any damage on the delivery paperwork. 3) Contact us within 48 hours: Email us with your order number, description of damage, and photographs. 4) Keep the packaging: Do not dispose of packaging until the claim is resolved. 5) We will resolve it: We will arrange replacement parts, a full replacement, or refund as appropriate. We take great care in packaging our cabinets, but transit damage occasionally occurs. We will always work to resolve issues promptly.

If any parts are missing from your delivery: 1) Check all packaging thoroughly: Small parts are sometimes in separate bags within the packaging. 2) Consult the parts list: Most cabinets include a parts inventory - check all items against this. 3) Contact us: Email or call with your order number and details of the missing parts. 4) We will send replacements: Missing parts will be dispatched as quickly as possible at no extra cost. We apologise for any inconvenience caused by missing parts and will resolve the issue promptly.

Yes, we can supply spare parts and replacement components for most of our cabinet ranges: • Glass shelves (various sizes) • Locks and keys • LED lighting strips • Hinges and door hardware • Feet and levellers • Shelf supports Please contact us with your cabinet model/range and the parts you need, and we will advise on availability and pricing.