You’re not alone if you’re wondering how often an office chair should be replaced. Office chairs are some of the most heavily used furniture in the workplace, supporting us for hours on end every day. While a quality chair is designed to withstand daily use, no chair lasts forever and knowing when to replace yours is crucial to maintaining comfort, safety, and productivity at work or home.
But even the best office chairs will eventually show signs of wear, so how do you know when it’s time to upgrade?
How often should an office chair be replaced?
Most office chairs should be replaced every 7 to 10 years, depending on usage, chair quality, and environment. However, some signs of wear may appear sooner, especially in high-traffic offices or with budget models that aren’t designed for daily use.
It might be time to act if your chair no longer provides proper lumbar support, doesn’t roll smoothly, or has a wobbling base. Frequent inspections can help identify early signs of damage or wear, allowing you to replace individual chair parts or the entire chair before significant issues develop.
Signs you need a new chair
- Loss of comfort: Compressed or uneven padding can reduce comfort and support.
- Damaged wheels/castors: If your chair doesn’t roll smoothly, the wheels could be blocked, cracked, or worn out.
- Worn or cracked base: If the chair base shows signs of fatigue, instability, or cracking, this is a serious safety concern.
- Backrest instability: If the backrest no longer adjusts or tilts appropriately, it can compromise posture and back health.
- Stuck height adjustment: If your gas lift no longer works, sitting at the right height for your desk may be challenging.
In many cases, individual components can be replaced to extend the lifespan of your chair.
Office chair wheels
One of a chair’s most commonly replaced parts is the caster wheels. Over time, replacement office chair caster wheels become necessary when rolling becomes uneven or blocked by debris. New wheels can restore smooth movement and protect your floor from scratches and scuff marks.
When choosing replacement rollers for office chairs, it’s essential to pick a set designed to fit your chair model and the type of flooring in your office.
Office chair wheel replacement: An easy fix
Fortunately, office chair wheel replacement is usually quick and straightforward. Most wheels pop out easily with a firm pull and can be replaced without tools. If you’re unsure about the right type, our Perth-based team can assist with product selection and ensure your new wheels fit correctly and function as intended.
Upgrading your chair wheels can extend your chair’s life and enhance its ease of movement.
Replacement casters for office chairs
Replacement casters for office chairs come in various types, each designed to meet different needs. Some are built for carpeted surfaces, others for hard flooring, and premium options offer rubberised finishes for silent, smooth rolling.
Don’t wait until your current casters cause damage to the floor or make your chair unsafe. Upgrading to new, high-quality wheels is a cost-effective solution that restores prime functionality without replacing your entire chair.
Office chair base replacement
Another critical component to monitor is the base. A cracked, bent, or unstable office chair base is a serious safety issue that should be addressed immediately. Luckily, office chair base replacement is often possible..
Bases are available in various materials, including metal and reinforced plastic, and we can help you select the best fit for your chair type. If your base is no longer structurally sound, replacing it can breathe new life into your chair.
Types of office chairs and lifespan considerations
Not all chairs are created equal. The types of chairs used in your office will influence how often should an office chair be replaced:
- Task chairs (light-duty): Typically last 3–5 years in busy environments.
- Executive chairs (premium build): Can last 7–10 years with proper care.
- 24/7 chairs (for round-the-clock use): Designed for durability, but should still be inspected regularly.
Investing in a quality chair from the start is one of the best ways to reduce how often you need to replace chairs in the long term.
Protect your investment
To maximise your chair’s lifespan and delay the need for replacement, regular maintenance is key:
- Protect your flooring with mats or select the right casters.
- Clean wheels and base regularly to avoid dust build-up and blocked movement.
- Avoid leaning back excessively or sitting at improper angles.
- Check manufacturer guidelines on weight limits and usage recommendations.
A little care goes a long way towards preserving your office chair’s comfort, safety, and functionality.
Wanting to replace your chair?
Whether you’re looking for a whole chair upgrade or replacing worn parts, Arteil makes it easy to keep your office seating in prime condition. As a proudly Western-Australian-owned business, we’ve crafted ergonomic seating solutions in Perth for decades, focusing on quality, comfort, and long-term support.
View our office chairs online to explore our full range, or contact us for advice on chair repairs and re-upholstery. We’re here to assist you with your office chair needs, from spare parts like caster wheels to full office chair base replacements.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the average lifespan of an office chair?
Most office chairs last 5 to 10 years, depending on build quality, daily usage, and maintenance. Budget chairs or chairs used intensively may need replacing sooner.
Can I replace the wheels on my office chair myself?
Yes, office chair wheel replacement is usually very straightforward. Most wheels simply pop out and can be replaced by hand. Make sure to choose wheels compatible with your chair and floor type.
How can I make my office chair last longer?
Regular cleaning, keeping the wheels clear of debris, avoiding leaning back excessively, and checking for early signs of damage all help protect your investment and extend your chair’s lifespan.
Do Arteil chairs come with replaceable parts?
Yes, Arteil designs chairs with longevity in mind. We offer a full range of replacement casters for office chairs, bases, and other chair components, making it easy to maintain or upgrade your chair over time.
Where can I buy replacement parts for my office chair in Australia?
You can order directly from Arteil’s Perth-based team; nationwide delivery is available. Our team ensures you get the right fit and part for your chair.