ᐅ KALLAX and PVC Flooring – Are There Any Pressure Marks?

Created on: 1 Sep 2021 08:13
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tenu35
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tenu35
1 Sep 2021 08:13
Hello everyone, I am currently considering whether I can place my KALLAX shelving system from IKEA directly on my new PVC floor without any additional protection, without causing pressure marks or other damage to the floor.

I have read that especially with soft floors like PVC or vinyl, furniture with sharp edges can cause pressure marks that are difficult to remove.

Has anyone had experience with this? Specifically, how does it work with KALLAX, since the feet are rather narrow and hard? Is it advisable to use special felt pads or protective underlays, and if so, which ones are best suited to protect the floor while maintaining stability?

I look forward to your tips and experiences!
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RETRAVIS
1 Sep 2021 09:07
KALLAX shelves are made of particleboard with a plastic coating, and the feet are usually simple plastic caps or the shelf itself without separate feet. On thin PVC floors, this can lead to pressure marks over time under prolonged load.

Pressure marks occur due to point loads, meaning when the contact area is very small and high pressure is applied. KALLAX feet tend to be quite narrow, so this risk is present.

I recommend always placing a protective layer such as felt pads or at least sturdy plastic plates underneath to better distribute the load and protect the floor. Soft felt pads are often a good choice as they have some give and prevent scratches.

Alternatively, special furniture floor protection pads made of plastic or rubber can be used, which can be easily cut to size. This ensures even load distribution and prevents pressure marks in the long run.
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LOJOPAR
1 Sep 2021 09:45
Hello tenu35, I use KALLAX myself on a PVC floor and can share the following experience – here is a brief guide:

1. Floor analysis: PVC floors are flexible and have some give depending on their thickness and quality. This makes pressure marks more likely, especially with cheaper or thinner options.

2. Furniture support check: KALLAX shelves usually rest on edges or small feet, so the weight is distributed very pointwise.

3. Protective measures: I applied self-adhesive felt pads about 3-4mm (1/8-5/32 inch) thick under each foot end. These help distribute pressure and prevent scratching at the same time.

4. Regular inspections: If the furniture is moved frequently, small particles under the feet can cause pressure marks or scratches. Therefore, I recommend checking the floor every few months and replacing the pads if necessary.

5. Alternatives: Rubber pads are more stable but can affect the appearance or slip slightly.

Summary: KALLAX without protection can cause pressure marks on PVC, especially under prolonged load. Felt pads are an easy and affordable solution, stabilizing the furniture and effectively protecting the floor.
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tenu35
1 Sep 2021 11:02
RETRAVIS schrieb:
KALLAX legs are often quite narrow, so this risk exists.

Interesting, I hadn’t really considered that the legs themselves aren’t very wide – I was thinking more about the overall contact area.
LOJOPAR schrieb:
I attached self-adhesive felt pads (about 3-4mm (0.1-0.15 inches) thick) under each leg end.

How well do those felt pads hold up for you? I’ve read that some can slip or come off over time, which then causes damage to the floor again.

Are there any particular brands or products you would recommend, or should anything be considered when preparing the floor before applying the pads?
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RICCARDO
1 Sep 2021 11:29
Felt pads adhere well if you clean the floor thoroughly and keep it dry before applying them.

Alternatively, small plastic plates under the legs are more stable and less likely to shift.

With KALLAX on unprotected PVC flooring, pressure marks can definitely occur.
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bauku
2 Sep 2021 07:54
Hey, I had the same question and can only say: definitely use felt pads! 🙂

I was really happy when I did that because the shelves stand much more securely on the PVC flooring, and my floor still looks like new even after months!

And if you want to go a step further: put thin furniture mats underneath as well, which helps distribute the weight even better!

I think it’s amazing how such small measures can have a big impact :-) So go ahead, your PVC floor will thank you!