The 9 Best Materials for Healthcare Facility Casework

Across medical facilities, from the largest metropolitan hospitals to the small-town clinic there seems to be a universal problem – never enough storage space.

For this reason, casework is a non-negotiable essential for healthcare environments. It offers much needed storage and workspace, in various medical settings. Choosing the right material for casework is vital to ensuring durability, hygiene, and cost-effectiveness.

This article explores:

• Key Considerations for Casework Used in Healthcare
• 9 Common Casework Construction Materials
• Casework Cost and Durability Comparisons
• Choosing the Right Casework Material
• Frequently Asked Questions

Key Considerations for Casework Used in Healthcare

Before heading into exploring the various materials available for casework, a quick look at several common casework considerations is important.

Look for durability, hygiene, and cost-effectiveness to help ensure the long-term service of casework in healthcare environments. Remember that to remain in compliance with a host of regulations, healthcare facilities require casework surfaces that:

• withstand frequent cleaning,
• resist bacteria, and
• maintain structural integrity under heavy use.

Keeping these considerations top of mind will help healthcare providers evaluate and choose the most suitable materials for their specific casework needs.

9 Most Common Casework Construction Materials

Discover the nine (9) best materials used to construct healthcare casework, their benefits, and where these materials best serve the needs of healthcare facilities.

High-Pressure Laminate (HPL) Casework

With its exceptional durability, versatility, and hygienic properties, High Pressure Laminate (HPL) casework is a popular choice for healthcare facilities. This engineered material consists of multiple layers of kraft paper infused with phenolic resin, topped with a decorative layer, and fused under high heat and pressure.

In medical environments, HPL casework offers several key advantages:

• Chemical Resistance: Phenolic resin boasts outstanding resistance to a wide range of chemicals, including harsh cleaning agents and disinfectants commonly used in medical facilities. This property ensures the longevity and integrity of the casework in environments where chemical exposure is frequent.
  
  
• Hygiene: The non-porous nature of phenolic resin makes it highly resistant to bacteria, mold, and mildew growth. This characteristic supports infection control efforts and maintains a clean, contamination-free environment so critical in medical settings.
  
  
• Durability: Because of the phenolic resin, HPL casework is exceptionally durable, capable of withstanding heavy use, impacts, and scratches. Its resilience makes it ideal for high-traffic areas in medical facilities, ensuring long-lasting performance.
  
  
• Moisture Resistance: Unlike some traditional materials, HPL offers excellent resistance to moisture and humidity, preventing water damage and maintaining its structural integrity in various medical environments.
  
  
• Easy Maintenance: The smooth, seamless surface of HPL casework is easy to clean and disinfect, simplifying maintenance routines and supporting the rigorous sanitation requirements of medical facilities.

HPL laminate casework can be found throughout medical environments, including:

• Laboratories and research facilities
• Examination rooms in clinics
• Surgical suites and sterile areas
• Pharmacies and medication storage areas
• Hospital storage and supply rooms

As the healthcare industry continues to prioritize infection control, durability, and efficient design, HPL casework stands out as an ideal solution. Its combination of chemical resistance, hygiene, and longevity makes it a reliable choice for environments where cleanliness and functionality are paramount.

Stainless Steel Casework

With the properties of stainless-steel casework in perfect alignment with the stringent regulatory requirements governing healthcare, it is a go to casework material for medical facilities.

The material is prized for the non-porous surface that is resistant to viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens. Some manufacturers offer antimicrobial coatings to further reduce viral and bacterial transmission. Stainless steel’s ability to withstand harsh cleaning agents and disinfectants commonly used in sterile environments makes it particularly suitable for areas that require frequent sterilization.

The most commonly used alloys for medical stainless-steel casework are types 304 and 316, with 316 being particularly resistant to corrosion. These materials not only provide a clean, professional appearance but also offer solid construction that can withstand heavy use in high-traffic areas.

In medical settings, stainless steel casework is commonly found in:

• Surgical departments
• Sterile departments
• Laboratories
• Endoscopy and radiology departments
• Hospital storage
• Cleanrooms
• Pharmaceutical facilities

The combination of durability, ease of maintenance, and hygienic properties makes stainless steel casework an excellent choice for medical environments. As the healthcare industry continues to prioritize infection control and efficient design, stainless steel casework is likely to remain a preferred solution in medical facilities.

Thermofoil Casework

Thermofoil is another popular material choice for casework because it to is durable, hygienic, and aesthetically appealing. This innovative material consists of a thin layer of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) that is heat-sealed to a medium-density fiberboard (MDF) substrate, creating the seamless and non-porous surface so ideal for healthcare settings.

Thermofoil casework checks the boxes for:

• Hygiene: The non-porous nature of thermofoil makes it resistant to bacteria, mold, and mildew growth, complementing infection control protocols in healthcare settings.
• Durability: Thermofoil surfaces are highly resistant to scratches, dents, and chemical degradation, ensuring longevity in high-traffic medical areas.
• Easy maintenance: The smooth, seamless finish of thermofoil is easy to clean and disinfect, supporting the rigorous sanitation requirements of medical environments.
• Versatility: Thermofoil can be applied to various components, including wall panels, cabinets, doors, workstations, and bedside surfaces, allowing for consistent design throughout medical facilities.
• Aesthetic options: Available in a wide range of colors, textures, and finishes, thermofoil casework can be tailored to create a welcoming and professional atmosphere in healthcare spaces.

Thermofoil casework is commonly used in hospitals, clinics, laboratories, and other medical settings for applications such as

• storage cabinets,
• workstations,
• nurse stations, and
• patient room furnishings.

Its ability to withstand frequent cleaning and disinfection while maintaining an attractive appearance makes it an ideal choice for healthcare environments where both functionality and aesthetics are important.

Solid Surface Casework

Solid surface casework is another innovative solution for medical environments requiring a combination of durability, hygiene, and aesthetic appeal in casework. This material, typically composed of acrylic resin and natural minerals, provides the non-negotiable seamless, non-porous surfaces.

Like other casework construction materials favored by healthcare facilities, solid surfaces satisfy the key considerations of:

• Hygiene: The non-porous nature of solid surface materials makes it resistant to bacteria, mold, and mildew growth which supports the infection prevention efforts of healthcare.
  
  
• Durability: Solid surface casework is highly resistant to scratches, impacts, and chemical degradation making it a go to for high-traffic medical areas.
  
  
• Cleanability: The smooth, seamless finish of solid surface materials is easy to clean and disinfect and can withstand strong hospital-grade cleaners and disinfectants, including bleach.
  
  
• Versatility: Solid surface can be applied to various components, including storage cabinets, workstations, wall panels, and custom architectural products.
  
  
• Reparability: Unlike traditional materials, solid surface casework is homogeneous and can be easily repaired if damaged, extending its lifespan significantly.

Solid surface casework is increasingly being used in hospitals, clinics, laboratories, and other medical settings for applications such as storage cabinets, workstations, nurse stations, and patient room furnishings. Its ability to meet the stringent requirements of healthcare environments while maintaining an attractive appearance makes it an ideal choice for healthcare facilities focused on improving care quality and patient experience.

Wood Veneer Casework

Wood veneer is a popular choice for medical environments looking to offer a balance of warmth, durability, and functionality. This type of casework consists of a thin layer of real wood veneer applied over a substrate, typically made of plywood or medium-density fiberboard (MDF). The wood veneer offers the aesthetic appeal of solid wood and increased stability without the real wood cost.

Wherever it is used, wood veneer casework offers:

• Aesthetic appeal: The natural warmth and beauty of wood veneer create a welcoming atmosphere, helping to reduce stress and anxiety in patients and staff. Studies have shown that patients feel more at ease in spaces with natural wood elements.
  
  
• Durability: Quality wood veneer casework can last up to 20 years in a healthcare setting. The veneer is typically finished with chemical-resistant coatings, amplifying its ability to withstand frequent cleaning and disinfection.
  
  
• Versatility: Wood veneer casework can be customized to suit various healthcare environments, from waiting rooms and patient areas to laboratories and storage spaces. It is available in a wide range of wood species, colors, and finishes to complement different decors.
  
  
• Hygiene: While not as inherently antimicrobial as some materials, wood veneer casework can be treated with non-toxic finishes to boost its resistance to bacteria and help support infection control efforts.
  
  
• Sustainability: Wood veneer casework can contribute to LEED certification and support environmentally conscious design in healthcare facilities.

Wood veneer casework can be found throughout healthcare facilities from reception desks and nurse stations to patient room furnishings, and storage cabinets. With the warmth of wood and satisfying the practical requirements of healthcare wood veneer is the go-to choice for medical facilities focused on creating healing spaces that support patient well-being and staff efficiency.

PVC Casework

PVC casework offers the trinity of durability, hygiene, and versatility that is a staple for healthcare settings. This type of casework can be used in multiple areas of hospitals, from patient rooms to operating rooms.

PVC casework as it is used in hospitals serves multiple purposes:

• Infection Control: PVC's smooth, non-porous surface is easy to clean and disinfect, helping prevent the spread of infections.
  
  
• Durability: Casework constructed of PVC can withstand frequent cleaning with harsh disinfectants and heavy use, making it ideal for high-traffic hospital areas.
  
  
• Versatility: It can be used for storage cabinets, medical carts, and even wall cladding.
  
  
• Customization: PVC casework can be easily fabricated and customized to meet specific facility needs, including the incorporation of antimicrobial additives for additional protection.
  
  
• Cost-effectiveness: While the initial cost may be higher than some alternatives, PVC casework's longevity and low maintenance requirements can return long-term value to hospitals.

By incorporating PVC casework, hospitals can create safer, more efficient environments that support both patient care and staff productivity.

Epoxy Resin Casework

Epoxy resin casework is also a popular choice for medical environments due to its exceptional properties and versatility. This specialized material offers a combination of durability, chemical resistance, and safety that makes it ideal for use in hospitals, laboratories, and other healthcare settings.

In healthcare settings, epoxy resin casework is commonly used for countertops, work surfaces, laboratory sinks, fume hood tops, and even custom-shaped components. Its ability to resist a wide range of chemicals, including bodily fluids, cleaning agents, and disinfectants, makes it particularly suitable for areas that require frequent sterilization and cleaning.

One of the key advantages of epoxy resin in medical environments is its biocompatibility. Medical-grade epoxy undergoes extensive testing to ensure it meets strict standards for use in contact with human tissue and bodily fluids. 

Glass and Acrylic Casework

Casework incorporating glass is favored for the non-porous nature of the glass. Glass surfaces can be easily sanitized, helping to eliminate 99% of bacteria that may accumulate. Additionally, glass can be customized to many sizes, thicknesses, and shapes, allowing for versatile applications in medical spaces.

Casework incorporating acrylic offers similar benefits but includes some unique advantages. Acrylic displays are durable, lightweight, and resistant to wear, ensuring long-lasting use in busy medical environments. They provide crystal-clear visibility, allowing for easy viewing of stored items or displayed information without compromising safety or protection. Acrylic is also cost-effective and versatile, making it an attractive option for healthcare facilities looking to maximize their budget while maintaining a professional appearance.

Both glass and acrylic casework can be found throughout medical settings:

• Storage: Cabinets and shelving units for medical supplies, medications, and equipment.
• Display units: For showcasing medical devices, educational materials, or pharmaceutical products.
• Work surfaces: In laboratories, pharmacies, and other areas requiring clean, durable surfaces.

As the healthcare industry continues to prioritize infection control and design elements, glass and acrylic may play an increasingly important.

Casework Material Cost & Durability Comparison

When evaluating and selecting healthcare casework cost and durability are two important factors to consider. Different materials offer varying levels of performance and longevity, which directly impact both the initial investment and long-term value. The following table compares some common healthcare casework materials in terms of their cost and durability, offering a quick reference for decision-makers in healthcare facility planning

This table provides a general comparison of materials used in medical casework. The cost range and durability ratings are relative to each other within the context of medical facility casework. It is important to note that actual costs and durability can vary across specific products, manufacturers, and installation methods

Choosing the Right Casework Material

Understanding the unique benefits of each material can help healthcare facilities make informed decisions that improve efficiency and patient safety.

Partnering with a healthcare equipment distributor with casework expertise, dedicated contractor services, and internal project management teams able to coordinate receiving and delivery of both Owner Furnished/Contractor Installed (OFCI) healthcare equipment and equipment ordered through the distributor takes much of the work out of casework procurement.

As a nationally recognized healthcare equipment distributor and the only distributor focused solely on medical equipment, CME has built relationships with industry leading casework manufacturers.

Our expert Contractor Services account managers will work with you and the manufacturers’ representatives to help select casework with the features that satisfy both facility and patient needs.

Complementing CME’s focus on medical equipment are in-house logistics and direct-to-site delivery services. Our Logistics and Direct-To-Site service teams can receive, inspect, stage and deliver your casework, whether we placed the order or the OFCI order was shipped to our warehouse for storage. 

We are the only medical equipment distributor nationwide, able to say we are truly a one-stop shop.

Click CHAT to begin a conversation about how our contractor services can help you source the best casework for your facility and budget.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most durable material for medical casework?

Stainless steel and epoxy resin are among the most durable materials, ideal for frequent-use and sterile environments.

Which casework material is best for infection control?

Solid surface and stainless steel are excellent choices due to their non-porous nature and ease of cleaning.

Are wood veneer caseworks suitable for hospitals?

Wood veneer is more suited for administrative areas and reception spaces rather than sterile environments.

How does cost vary among medical casework materials?

Stainless steel and epoxy resin tend to be the most expensive, while HPL and thermofoil are more budget friendly.

Can medical casework be customized?

Yes, many manufacturers offer modular and customizable designs to meet specific facility needs.

About CME: CME Corp is the nation’s premier source for healthcare equipment, turnkey logistics, and biomedical services, representing 2 million+ products from more than 2,000 manufacturers. Headquartered in Rhode Island and with service centers coast to coast, our mission is to help healthcare facilities nationwide reduce the cost of the equipment they purchase, make their equipment specification, delivery, installation, and maintenance processes more efficient, and help them seamlessly launch, renovate and expand on schedule.