Installing hairpin legs on your desk is a great way to enhance the aesthetics in your office while ensuring the stability for your workstation. There are so many great designs you can choose from, too! The only question is, what size hairpin legs is best for desks?
It all depends on your specific preferences for desk height. The standard desk leg height is 71cm. This is the optimal seating arrangement for the average person. But, there will always be variations. For example, maybe you want to build a standing desk. Or, maybe you’re on the shorter end and don’t need something quite so tall.
Given all this nuance, we’ve created a quick resource describing how tall hairpin legs should be for a desk below. You’ll also gain more tips on picking the perfect legs for your desk beyond sizing, from materials to designs.
No matter your preferences, you can rest assured the hairpin legs you’ve been searching for are right here waiting to be discovered. The Hairpin Leg Co. has the premiere selection of desk legs in the UK backed by a satisfaction guarantee, shop today!
Why Add Hairpin Legs to Your Desk?
First things first, what are hairpin legs and why are they a great addition to your desk? This classic style originated in the 1940s, and it’s still popular today. Once you see how stunning they look in person you’ll understand why! But, appearance is just one piece of the puzzle…
Aesthetic Appeal
Hairpin legs bring a timeless elegance to any desk, drawing inspiration from mid-century modern design. Their sleek, minimalist lines create a contemporary look that seamlessly blends with various décor styles, from industrial lofts to Scandinavian simplicity.
The slim profile of hairpin legs adds an air of sophistication without overwhelming the overall design of the desk, making them an ideal choice for those looking to add a stylish touch to their workspace.
You can typically find these in a variety of styles and finishes to align with your preferences and the existing ambiance in your workplace.
Functionality and Versatility
While they look delicate, make no mistake - hairpin legs are incredibly sturdy and functional. They provide excellent support for an array of desktops, including wood, metal, and glass.
This is because they’re usually crafted from high-quality steel, and with 3 rod options in particular, they offer robust support that can handle the weight of most desktops and equipment. They’re suitable for different types of desks, from writing desks to computer workstations.
Easy Installation and Maintenance
Whether you're a seasoned DIYer or a beginner, attaching hairpin legs to a desk is a straightforward process that doesn't require specialised tools or skills.
We even have tips on how to install furniture legs, and you’ll get a detailed builder’s guide in your purchase to streamline the process as well.
The best part is that once you have them installed the work is done. Hairpin legs are designed to be durable and require minimal upkeep. So, you won’t have to stress about how to fix hairpin legs - especially when you get durable styles like ours at The Hairpin Leg Co.! They’re backed by a 5-year warranty, after all.
That being said, all these benefits require you to size your legs to perfection. So, what size hairpin legs for desk is best?
What Size Hairpin Legs is Best for Desks?
As we said from the start, there is a bit of wriggle room as far as hairpin leg sizing goes. Your chosen legs should support ergonomic seating while complementing the design and structure of your workspace.
The typical height for a desk is between 28 and 30 inches (71 to 76 cm). This range is considered standard for most desks and provides a comfortable working height for the average person.
For example, 71cm hairpins are perfect for the vast majority of writing desks and workstations. This height accommodates standard office chairs, supporting posture and comfort during prolonged use.
On the other hand, 76mm legs will work better for taller individuals or specific types of desks - like those used for drafting or drawing. This height can also be advantageous if the desk is used as a standing desk with a stool.
While 71cm hairpin legs tend to be a fairly safe size for desks, you need to account for the thickness of your desktop as well.
For instance, if your desktop is 2.5 cm thick and you want a total desk height of 74 cm, you should opt for hairpin legs that are 71 cm tall. This calculation ensures the final desk height meets your ergonomic needs.
More Tips on Picking the Perfect Hairpin Desk Legs
Knowing what size hairpin legs for desk you need is a great starting point, but there are so many other factors to consider as well. From the design itself to materials and finishes, here’s what you need to keep in mind before you place your order.
Hairpin Leg Style
The classic hairpin leg style might be exactly what you have in mind - if so, great! These feature a simple, sleek design with two or three prongs. They’re perfect for a minimalist and modern look. But this traditional design is just the tip of the iceberg.
There are also our box hairpin legs, for example, which are a bit more industrial in appearance and offer a more robust structure for heavier desktops. You can also find our unique wireframe hairpin legs which are incredibly visually captivating.
Take a look around and see what catches your eye, as there are so many different directions you can take this project. Then, you need to choose the right metal leg materials.
Material and Finish
The material influences strength, stability, longevity, and to a certain extent, cost. Most hairpin legs are made from high-quality steel. For added strength, look for legs made from solid or thick-gauge steel.
The finish is what you actually see, though. You can go with a raw-steel look if you want to apply your own finish later on, or you can leave it as is for a rugged and eventually rusted look.
However, powder-coated legs offer a smooth, durable surface that resists scratches and rust. They’re available in various colours to match your style. Meanwhile, options like chrome, brass, or copper add a touch of elegance and can match other metal accents in your workspace.
Weight Capacity
The last thing you want is your desk to come crashing down because your chosen legs weren’t strong enough to support its weight. This is why you need to do your due diligence to determine the legs’ weight capacity.
At 71cm height, our classic 3 rod hairpin legs can support up to 60kg, while heavier duty legs can support up to 120kg. The height of your legs and the specific style will influence your specific weight capacity. If you’re worried about weight, consider upgrading to the thicker 12mm legs rather than the 10mm legs.
Discover the Best Selection of Desk Legs at The Hairpin Leg Co.!
There’s a lot to look for when choosing the best desk legs for your office, from what size hairpin legs is best for desks, to design, materials, finish, weight capacity, and more. But the good news is you won’t have to look far for the perfect set of hairpin legs for your desk.
Whether you’re looking for 71 cm hairpin legs or something else entirely for your desktop, The Hairpin Leg Co. has you covered with a diverse range of furniture legs to choose from.
We’ve been the #1 choice since 2013 for DIYers, makers, and professionals alike. That’s because we use the best materials paired with impeccable craftsmanship. This ensures you’re getting a work of art that will serve its purpose, standing the test of time.
The variety you have at your fingertips is second to none at The Hairpin Leg Co. We offer hairpin legs starting at just 10cm all the way up to 102cm, with tons of options in between. You can also choose from an assortment of colours - raw steel, clear coat, black, white, brass, gold, red, yellow, green, orange, and many more!
While our classic 2-rod hairpin legs are a great ode to the classic design originating from Henry Glass in the 1940s, we have other styles you might be interested in as well.
Take our hairpin wireframe legs, for example. These are a delightful twist that adds a unique, geometric twist to your space. Or, you can go with our box hairpin legs for something more contemporary and sturdy.
No matter the style you go with, your order is backed by 60-day free returns and a 5-year warranty so you can shop with confidence. You’ll also get free shipping on orders over £50.
Installation is a breeze thanks to your detailed builder’s guides included in every set of metal furniture legs and wooden furniture legs. So, what are you waiting for? If you still have questions about what size hairpin legs to use for your desk, get in touch with our customer service team today. Otherwise, place your order and bring your new desk to life!
Parting Thoughts on What Size Hairpin Legs to use for a Desk
Choosing the right size hairpin legs for your desk is essential for achieving both comfort and style. Consider the standard desk height, desktop thickness, material, and intended use to ensure stability and functionality. Be sure to account for materials, designs, weight capacity, and other factors as well.
Find additional resources in our blog like DIY desk legs, how to attach table legs, how to restore metal table legs, how to fix wobbly desk legs, how to stabilise metal table legs, and many more.
At this point, though, it’s time you transformed your workspace with stunning, durable hairpin legs. Find the perfect size and style, and make your office vision a reality with The Hairpin Leg Co. today!
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