ᐅ Are there any DIY solutions for floor leveling when installing IKEA PLATSA?

Created on: 18 Feb 2020 08:37
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xhulio
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xhulio
18 Feb 2020 08:37
Hello everyone, I am currently working on a project to install the IKEA Platsa shelving system on a floor with an uneven surface. My question is whether there are any DIY solutions for leveling the floor that are effective and stable without immediately requiring a full subfloor construction or floor replacement. I am especially interested if anyone has successfully used simple methods such as special shims, wedges, leveling mats, or similar tricks. What experiences have you had, particularly regarding the stability and long-term effects of such adjustments?
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Tevin
18 Feb 2020 09:26
Hello xhulio,

well-formulated question! With PLATSA, it is indeed important to have the floor as level as possible, since the modules can develop issues like tilting or wobbling due to installation conditions. A simple solution is self-adhesive furniture feet or plastic shims, which come in various thicknesses. These can be placed under the corners of the shelves to compensate for unevenness. This can be done easily and without making major changes to the floor.

If stronger adjustments are needed, small wooden or plastic wedges can be used and carefully fixed in place with assembly adhesive. Always check that the construction remains stable after leveling. It is important that the solution is not only temporary but also able to bear the load permanently.

In principle, before installation, make sure that no condensation or moisture is trapped by the aids used to avoid damage. Regular inspections after installation are still recommended.
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KUDAISY
18 Feb 2020 11:15
Hello xhulio,

You asked a very precise question, so I’m happy to provide a structured answer with a small tutorial approach.

1. Assessment: First, use a spirit level or a laser level to measure the unevenness in the area where the PLATSA will be placed.

2. Material choice: For slight unevenness, furniture pads made of rubber or cork are recommended, which you attach under the furniture legs. These compensate for small height differences.

3. For larger height differences: use wooden wedges or custom-made shims from plywood, cut precisely to size.

4. Installation: A tip is to fix the wedges to the floor with a drop of wood glue so they don’t slip. Then carefully place the furniture and adjust with a spirit level.

5. Finishing: Check the stability by applying light pressure. If necessary, the wedges may need to be adjusted again.

Typical mistakes include using pads that are too thick, which can compress or slip over time, and neglecting moisture buildup under the materials.

I hope this helps! Good luck with your PLATSA.
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Nils58
18 Feb 2020 12:44
Hey xhulio, great topic! I had the same issue with PLATSA due to an uneven laminate floor and solved it like this: I just bought small rubber pads, similar to furniture feet, which can be stacked in different heights. They’re non-slip, and after a few weeks everything feels as stable as new!
Tevin schrieb:
An easy solution is self-adhesive furniture feet or plastic washers, which come in different thicknesses.

What Tevin described made a lot of sense to me. The most important thing is to work very precisely with these small adjustments so that nothing wobbles. I also readjusted everything afterwards, and it’s holding perfectly.

All I can say: keep at it, don’t give up! 😊
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maureo
18 Feb 2020 13:49
If you have unevenness over 1 cm (0.4 inches), use sturdy wooden wedges and cut them to the exact height. Use assembly adhesive to fix them in place. This will keep the shelf level and prevent it from slipping. Done.
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GUMARTINA
19 Feb 2020 07:11
I used simple rubber coasters designed for flower pots from PLATSA. They are flexible enough to provide slight pressure and protect the floor. For significantly uneven areas, I added thin plywood sheets.