ᐅ Is it possible to expand a Pax wardrobe with custom shelves?
Created on: 14 Sep 2016 08:12
A
arlind62Hello everyone, I am planning to customize and expand my Pax wardrobe system and wonder if it is generally possible to use custom shelves instead of only the original IKEA shelves. My idea is that this would give me more flexibility with dimensions and material choice. However, I am unsure whether the existing brackets and rail fittings will remain compatible or if this might affect the stability or complicate the assembly. Does anyone have experience with this or know if it is advisable? I am especially concerned about the load-bearing capacity and long-term secure attachment. Thanks in advance for any tips and advice!
In principle, it is possible to expand a Pax system with custom-made shelves. It is important that the dimensions are precisely matched to the existing guide rails, as the clips and brackets from IKEA are specifically designed for them. A problem can arise if the thickness of the shelves deviates from the original ones, as this can affect the support points and the anchoring system. Likewise, the material should be strong enough to carry the expected loads without bending.
For example, if you use wooden boards with a thickness of 18 mm (0.7 inches), which corresponds to the IKEA shelves, you can securely place them in the designated positions. Otherwise, you would likely need additional fasteners or modifications to the brackets.
For example, if you use wooden boards with a thickness of 18 mm (0.7 inches), which corresponds to the IKEA shelves, you can securely place them in the designated positions. Otherwise, you would likely need additional fasteners or modifications to the brackets.
I am a bit skeptical about this. You mentioned wanting more flexibility in materials and dimensions. At first glance, that sounds good, but the entire Pax system is designed around a very specific set of measurements – which is evident in the guide rails, mounting clips, and side panels.
This is exactly my main concern – if you change the thickness or width of the shelves, it can be difficult to find the appropriate brackets or properly align the shelving unit. Have you thought about how you will ensure secure fixings? And whether you might need to modify the side panels, which could affect the overall stability?
Joshbe schrieb:
A problem can occur if the thickness of the boards deviates from the originals, as this can affect the support points and the anchoring system.
This is exactly my main concern – if you change the thickness or width of the shelves, it can be difficult to find the appropriate brackets or properly align the shelving unit. Have you thought about how you will ensure secure fixings? And whether you might need to modify the side panels, which could affect the overall stability?
Thank you for the quick and helpful feedback!
@dinano: I plan to keep the original guide rails and side panels, so I intend to only replace the boards themselves. The idea is to use solid wood shelves, for example, which might have the same thickness as the IKEA boards. This shouldn’t cause any issues with mounting. My main concern is long-term stability, especially regarding warping or load-bearing capacity, since my Pax will need to hold some heavy items. I don’t like the Plexiglas or the thin particleboard look of the original IKEA shelves.
If anyone has done this before, I would appreciate any practical experience you can share. Also, any advice on whether additional modifications to the structure might be necessary.
@dinano: I plan to keep the original guide rails and side panels, so I intend to only replace the boards themselves. The idea is to use solid wood shelves, for example, which might have the same thickness as the IKEA boards. This shouldn’t cause any issues with mounting. My main concern is long-term stability, especially regarding warping or load-bearing capacity, since my Pax will need to hold some heavy items. I don’t like the Plexiglas or the thin particleboard look of the original IKEA shelves.
If anyone has done this before, I would appreciate any practical experience you can share. Also, any advice on whether additional modifications to the structure might be necessary.
Hello! I completed exactly the same project and can only say: it works great! 😊
I had solid cherry wood shelves cut to the same thickness as the IKEA shelves. It’s really important that the dimensions are correct, and that the edges are perfectly smooth so the clips can grip properly. I kept the original brackets – this way I could simply swap the shelves without having to modify the side panels. The wood actually supports the weight even better, so my Pax is now more stable than before!
Of course, you need a precise cutting line and careful finishing so everything fits exactly. If that works, there’s nothing stopping you from upgrading. I can only encourage you to give it a try if you’re interested in wood quality!
I had solid cherry wood shelves cut to the same thickness as the IKEA shelves. It’s really important that the dimensions are correct, and that the edges are perfectly smooth so the clips can grip properly. I kept the original brackets – this way I could simply swap the shelves without having to modify the side panels. The wood actually supports the weight even better, so my Pax is now more stable than before!
Of course, you need a precise cutting line and careful finishing so everything fits exactly. If that works, there’s nothing stopping you from upgrading. I can only encourage you to give it a try if you’re interested in wood quality!
Good morning!
I would like to add that when replacing the shelves with custom-made versions, choosing the right material is crucial for stability. A wood thickness of at least 18mm (0.7 inches) is recommended, ideally with a good cross-section, such as plywood or MDF with veneer.
Please make sure to smooth the edges and, if necessary, apply a coating to prevent moisture absorption – otherwise, warping can occur.
Additionally, I recommend using the original fixing points. This not only ensures stability but also makes installation and any future modifications easier. If there are still concerns, the shelves can be additionally secured with brackets or clamp mounts – I have done this several times for heavy loads.
If anyone is interested, I would be happy to prepare a small guide on how to do this.
I would like to add that when replacing the shelves with custom-made versions, choosing the right material is crucial for stability. A wood thickness of at least 18mm (0.7 inches) is recommended, ideally with a good cross-section, such as plywood or MDF with veneer.
Please make sure to smooth the edges and, if necessary, apply a coating to prevent moisture absorption – otherwise, warping can occur.
Additionally, I recommend using the original fixing points. This not only ensures stability but also makes installation and any future modifications easier. If there are still concerns, the shelves can be additionally secured with brackets or clamp mounts – I have done this several times for heavy loads.
If anyone is interested, I would be happy to prepare a small guide on how to do this.
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