FAQs
Find answers to the most common questions about laboratory and educational furniture solutions from SB Labs.
Whether you’re planning a new laboratory, upgrading a classroom, or seeking guidance on specialist products, our FAQs are designed to help architects, educators and project managers make informed decisions. Explore topics ranging from design options and materials to installation, safety standards and long-term maintenance.
Let us help you choose the best solutions for your space with confidence.
Where do you manufacture your products?
All our furniture is manufactured in our factory in Manchester, United Kingdom. Our offices, showrooms, manufacturing plant and storage warehouse are all located on one site, just fifteen minutes from the city centre.
What areas do you cover?
We are truly an international business. We deliver and install our products worldwide, with a strong network of partners across various regions to ensure competitive pricing. Within the UK and overseas, we also have trained installation subcontractors who help us maintain high standards of service wherever your project is located. We are proud two-time winners of the King’s Award for International Trade (2016 & 2022) — the highest accolade for UK businesses.
What are your lead times?
Lead times vary depending on the size and complexity of the project. For example, a standard table may take only a few weeks, while a large, fully bespoke project spanning multiple rooms or floors could require a longer program of works. As all our furniture is made to order, we recommend contacting us to discuss your specific requirements — we can quickly review your project and provide an accurate lead time.
How do I contact a representative in my area?
You can call our head office on 0161 793 9333, and we’ll direct you to the appropriate representative for your area. Alternatively, you can email sales@sblabs.co.uk, and the relevant member of our team will get in touch.
Do you work directly with clients or only through dealers?
We work directly with clients as well as through local agents or partners, depending on the project. For international work, it can sometimes be beneficial to collaborate with local representatives. We’re flexible and happy to work via whichever procurement route best suits your requirements.
Do you use Revit?
Yes. We have trained Revit engineers and all the necessary software packages to meet full BIM (Building Information Modelling) requirements.
Do you sell overseas?
Yes. We have successfully completed international projects for over 30 years, with approximately 35% of our annual work taking place outside the UK. Our experienced team manages the logistical challenges of global delivery with the support of an extensive network of agents, partners, distributors and installation teams worldwide. We are proud two-time winners of the King’s Award for International Trade (2016 & 2022) — the highest accolade for UK businesses.
Do you only manufacture science lab furniture?
No. Although we specialise in laboratory furniture, we also design and produce furniture for industrial environments, engineering facilities, research centres, hospitals, processing plants and more. In the education sector, we create furniture for STEM rooms, makerspaces, art and design technology, food technology and computer suites.
Do you offer design support?
Yes. Our highly experienced design team can produce 2D and 3D drawings using all major design software packages, including AutoCAD and Revit. We also offer design consultancy and specification writing services. We work closely with architects, project managers, main contractors and end users.
Do you offer bespoke solutions?
Yes. All our products are made to order in the client’s chosen colours and finishes. While we have an extensive range of standard products developed and refined over many years, we are always happy to design and manufacture bespoke solutions to meet your specific needs.
Do you manufacture fume cupboards?
Yes. We are one of the few suppliers that manufacture both laboratory furniture and fume cupboards. This allows us to provide complete laboratory solutions with matching aesthetics. Our fume cupboards are designed and manufactured to European standards and deliver exceptional performance. See our fume cupboard range for more information.
Can I visit your facility?
Yes! As all our operations are located on one site in Manchester here, just a fifteen-minute drive from the city centre, we are always pleased to welcome visitors for a tour of our manufacturing plant and showrooms. We have the largest laboratory furniture showroom in the UK, showcasing the latest products and furniture systems. To arrange your visit, please contact sales@sblabs.co.uk.
Do you have a showroom?
Yes! We have the largest and most advanced laboratory furniture showroom in the UK, featuring both standard products and bespoke furniture systems developed for major clients. We use premium materials from leading brands such as Trespa, Fundermax, Corian, Velstone, Formica, Kronospan, Broen, Watersaver and others. To arrange your visit , please contact sales@sblabs.co.uk.
