ᐅ Why does the Kallax vibrate on tiles when the windows are open?

I have a somewhat unusual question that has been on my mind lately: Why does my Kallax shelf move on my tiled floor when the windows are open? The piece of furniture is stable and definitely not tilted, but as soon as the window is open, it seems to slowly shift and slide across the tiles. The problem can be reproduced and only occurs when the window is open; otherwise, it stays firmly in place. Does anyone have a plausible explanation for why the shelf starts to slide on a smooth surface when there is ventilation from an open window? I suspect it might have something to do with air currents or temperature differences, but I’m not sure. Maybe it’s related to the furniture’s construction or small unevenness in the floor? Thanks in advance!

The shelf slides when the draft is strong enough. An open window causes airflow, which can move furniture, especially on smooth tiles. Check if the airflow actually hits the shelf.

Hello Reoon, the phenomenon you described is actually explainable. When you open the window, it usually creates an airflow. Even if you don’t always feel it directly, this airflow can be enough to move lightweight furniture on smooth, flat surfaces. Additionally, the humidity and temperature in the room can change, which can slightly affect the friction between the shelf feet and the floor. The smoother the tiles and the lighter the shelf, the easier it is to shift. Also, check if the shelf is slightly tilted, as even a minimal incline can encourage movement.

To explore this topic further, here are some facts:

1. Draft: An open window creates an airflow that can exert force on the piece of furniture. This force depends on the size of the window, wind direction, and wind speed.

2. Friction: The sliding friction between the shelf feet and the tiles is low, especially if the feet have small rubber pads or are smooth.

3. Floor unevenness: Even if tiles appear level, slight slopes or irregularities can act like tilting surfaces.

4. Temperature and humidity: These slightly change the material properties of the shelf and the floor, which can also affect friction.

Summary: When a draft hits this easily sliding piece of furniture and there is even a minimal incline on the surface, the shelf moves. A simple test would be to lift the shelf with the windows open and place it exactly level or equip it with anti-slip mats.

jelite schrieb:
An open window creates an airflow that can definitely exert force on the piece of furniture.

That's correct, such air currents are often strong enough. Alternatively, you can simply use furniture stoppers.

The movement of the Kallax shelf can be physically explained by the balance of forces acting on the furniture. The airflow creates pressure and shear forces on the shelf surface, which can overcome the low friction on smooth tile flooring. The mass of the shelf is also an important factor: lighter furniture is more sensitive to such dynamic forces. Additionally, you should check the characteristics of the shelf feet, as hard plastic feet produce less friction. I recommend placing anti-slip pads under the legs to increase static friction and prevent movement.