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Standing Desk Modification

June 10, 2022

Standing Desk Modification

Standing desks can be a major investment for some. So, what if you want a stand-up desk, but can’t afford a full, adjustable sit-stand desk?

We’ve got the answers to exactly that. With standing desk modification, you can turn your normal desk into a standing desk in no time, and without all of the overhead.

Check out our solutions for standing desk converters, as well as some nifty DIY options.

Check out UpDown Desk's PRO Series Electric Standing Desks!

What This Article Covers:

Converting Your Existing Desk

The easiest way to start standing up would be to convert your existing desk. Standard desks are generally too short to stand and work so you will need to find ways to make your desktop a bit higher.

Standing Desk Modification

The two methods to modifying your existing desk to standing height are listed below:

  1. Place something on top of your desk in order to raise the keyboard, mouse, and monitor.
  2. Place something underneath your desk in order to raise the total height of your desktop. 

Both these methods work well for modifying your desk to an  adjustable standing desk. Depending on what you have lying around the house, you might even be able to do this without paying a single cent.

That being said, we do recommend using a standing desk converter above all else. Converters are specially designed for the ergonomics of standing desk modification.

Standing Desk Converters

I’ve listed two types of standing desks converters below:

  • Adjustable X Design
  • Adjustable Z Design

Adjustable X Design

The X shape design calls most other designs into question because it provides such an improvement in operation, stability, and, most significantly, value for money.

Advantages
  • A newer design that lifts and lowers without swinging towards you, providing unparalleled stability and smooth operation
  • It is also endlessly adjustable within its range and has no fixed heights
  • Far easier to convert your desk than any other method
  • Specially designed for standing
  • Plenty of workspace
Who It’s Right For
  • Those looking for an easy, convenient modification solution

    Adjustable Z Design

    Previously, this was the sole option. Newer approaches are rapidly rendering this design obsolete.

    Advantages
    • Likely to have more affordable variants
    • More options are available to suit your needs and tastes
    • Specially designed for standing
    • Plenty of workspace
    Who It’s Right For
    • Anyone on a bit more of a budget

      Raising Your Keyboard, Mouse, and Monitor

      standing desk modifications

      One of the most straightforward ways to modify a  electric sit stand desk is to place something on top of your desk so that the desk height is high enough for your computer Input and Output tools. Because it doesn’t need to hold the entire weight of your desk and it is common to find things lying around, this method is generally known as the easiest solution.

      We have listed a few items that will be able to raise your devices below:

      • Chair
      • Box(s)
      • Books
      • Short Table
      • Shelves

      Anything that will securely hold and elevate your computer, or even just your laptop, will work.

      The Advantages and Disadvantages of This Method

      Advantages
      • It is easy to set up, depending on what you use
      • Cost-effective
      Disadvantages
      • Stability, but it all depends on what you use
      • There is a reduced work surface
      • Can be a pain to disassemble and return to sitting

      You might want to consider other methods if you do a lot of non-computer work at your desk

      Raising Your Entire Desk

      The second option for modifying your desk is to lift the entire height of the desk by placing something underneath the desk legs. The type of desk legs you have as well as how heavy your desk is will determine what materials you use. 

      Some of the easiest objects to put under your desk are:

      • Milk boxes and crates
      • Chairs
      • Blocks of wood
      • Bed risers
      • Vases
      • End tables
      • Reams of paper, or full paper boxes

      There are endless possibilities, all you need to do is to look for objects which are level and sturdy to hold the weight of your desk, and just remember that you’ll most likely need four of them.

      The Advantages and Disadvantages of This Method
      Advantages:
      • There is no loss of work surface
      • You will have easier access to the desk drawers and shelves.
      • You won’t have to worry about a desktop at thigh or waist level getting in the way
      • It is just as sturdy as putting your desk on the floor
      Disadvantages:
      • Unless you have a highchair or stool, it will be more difficult to alternate between sitting and standing
      • You will need well-built and sturdy material
      • You will need to find some materials that work best for your desk as not all desk legs are the same

      Electric Standing Desks

      How do electric standing desks work? The majority of electric standing desks use either a brushed or a brushless motor. A controller activates this little DC (direct current) motor to raise, stop, or lower the desk column (s).

      Electric motors used in standing desks must be capable of smoothly raising and lowering loads weighing 200 pounds or more. These compact direct current motors have a high power density.

      Brushed motors are simple and inexpensive, but they are sluggish due to the limited high-speed torque. Furthermore, the brushes wear out and require motor maintenance, and the motors can be quite noisy. Brushless motors respond instantly without lag when a button is pressed, and they are more efficient, more robust, and make less noise than typically brushed motor drives.

      The power of an electric desk motor is only important when it converts into important factors when operating the desk – adjustment speed and weight capacity. The desk motor should ideally be powerful enough to shift whatever load is on the desk so swiftly that you don't even realize it.

      Check out UpDown Desk's PRO Series Electric Standing Desks!

      Standing Desk Modification FAQs

      Is it healthy to stand at your desk?

      Standing at your desk is a good way to prevent long periods of being seated, which is not healthy. Many experts recommend that you alternate between standing and sitting, in order to change positions throughout the day. 

      What is the correct height for a standing desk?

      You should aim to position your desk at elbow height for standing. To do this correctly, you need to bend your arms in an L-shape so that your forearms are parallel to the floor. You also need to then measure the distance from the floor to the bottom of your elbow. 

      Your desk should be placed at this height when you work. Sit-stand desks can be altered to various heights, this will ensure that you have no issues with finding the correct level for your needs.

      Does a standing desk reduce sitting time?

      Yes, it actually does, but only if you actively make the switch. It is not difficult to do, you just have to remember to regularly make the switch. To help you remember, you could put a note on your desk or set a reminder on your phone or computer to switch positions for 15 minutes out of every hour.

      Are standing desks bad for your knees?

      Standing desks can cause knee pain if you constantly use them throughout the day. To prevent this, you would need to constantly alternate between sitting and standing.

      What is a standing desk converter?

      Standing desk converters are adjustable desk units that may be placed on top of an existing work surface. They are a low-cost alternative to getting rid of or shifting your current desk.

      Can you use a standing desk converter with two monitors?

      Depending on the maximum load capacity of the converter, some standing desk converters can accommodate two monitors. To ensure that it is under the limit, add the weight of the two monitors.

      Check out UpDown Desk's Monitor Arms - there's Single, Double and Triple Monitor Options!

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