ᐅ Are there any tips for installing Billy shelves in older buildings?

Do you have any tips for installing Billy shelves in older buildings?

I want to install several Billy shelves at home, in an older building with somewhat uneven walls and partly fragile plaster. I’ve read that you often can’t just drill “as is” in older buildings because the material behind the plaster can vary – wooden laths, bricks, or even clay, etc. I’m interested in which methods you would recommend to mount the shelves securely and stably without damaging the walls or making the shelves unstable.

Which anchors and screws work best, and are there any tricks that specifically apply to walls in older buildings? Also, is it essential to identify the exact wall type before screwing in? I look forward to your experiences and recommendations!

Hello lumukar,

first of all, a great topic! Walls in older buildings can often be quite challenging. I suggest considering the following points before installation:

1. Identify the wall type: Older building walls are usually brick, stone with plaster, or wood paneling. It’s best to test with a small drill bit behind the plaster to see what you are dealing with — this will help you determine whether you can use anchors or if you should only aim for wood screws.

2. Choice of anchors: For brick, I like to use expansion anchors with a long shaft or special universal anchors. For brittle plaster, cavity wall anchors or chemical anchors (injection mortar) are suitable as they provide more hold.

3. Screws: Always use stainless steel screws, especially if the walls are damp.

4. Pre-drill with a smaller drill bit than the anchor: This prevents the material from breaking out.

5. Attach shelves to the wall — not just to the back panel of the shelf unit. For example, Billy shelves can be screwed in at the top and in the middle for better stability.

lumukar schrieb:
I’m interested in which methods you would recommend to mount the shelves securely and stably

Here is my recommendation: always mount securely using appropriate anchors, never compromise on materials, and it’s better to test one time too many than too few. If you like, I can send you a step-by-step installation guide.

Hello lumukar,

to add to Jensson’s comments: An important aspect with old masonry walls is moisture testing. Especially in older buildings, damp spots can be found behind the plaster, which can affect the holding strength of anchors.

Additionally, I recommend using chemical anchors for particularly porous or crumbly masonry. Although they are somewhat more complex to install, they provide significantly greater strength than standard plastic anchors.

If you want to estimate exact values or loads for the shelves, I can also provide you with a simple formula to calculate the allowable screw load.

I understand how frustrating it can be to install shelves in an older building when you’re worried about damaging the walls.

I had a similar experience: I drilled too hard once, and the plaster chipped off in some places. My advice is to use a spirit level and a fine pencil to mark everything precisely, and start with small drill bits to test the material.

Jensson schrieb:
secure installation always with the right wall plugs, no compromises on materials

I completely agree! And if you’re unsure whether there is wood or masonry behind the plaster, it’s better to ask a professional to take a look. This can save you stress and extra costs.

Also: don’t get discouraged if it’s not perfect the first time. 🙂

For older buildings, always use hollow wall anchors or metal expansion anchors. Pre-drill the holes, insert the anchors straight, and avoid using screws that are too long. This ensures a secure hold.

Rule number one: Check the wall structure by making a small hole. Then choose a suitable anchor. That’s basically all you need.