ᐅ How does the retrofit of soft-close functionality work for IKEA PLATSA?
Created on: 11 Jul 2020 08:12
E
emrahjoI am currently considering how to retrofit a soft-close feature on IKEA Platsa cabinets. Are there specific upgrade kits or mechanisms available that can be purchased and installed fairly easily? It would be important for me to know which parts are needed, whether the existing hinges need to be replaced or just supplemented, and which tools are typically required. I would also like to know if this affects the stability or the opening and closing behavior of the doors. Thanks for any helpful explanations or personal experiences!
I’m happy to explain step-by-step how to retrofit soft-close functionality on IKEA PLATSA cabinets:
- First, order the appropriate soft-close hinges either from the IKEA online store or directly in-store. For PLATSA, these are usually special models that come with built-in dampers.
- Unscrew the old hinges; these are standard hinges with metal plates.
- Attach the new soft-close hinge plates to the inside of the doors and the cabinet frame.
- Make sure to use the correct pre-drilled holes, which are usually already there, to ensure the doors close precisely.
- The most important tools are a cordless drill and a screwdriver.
Common mistakes include ordering the wrong hinges (make sure they are PLATSA-specific) and screwing them in either too tightly or too loosely, which can affect the soft-close function. Also, check the door alignment, as the damping works best when the door is properly adjusted.
- First, order the appropriate soft-close hinges either from the IKEA online store or directly in-store. For PLATSA, these are usually special models that come with built-in dampers.
- Unscrew the old hinges; these are standard hinges with metal plates.
- Attach the new soft-close hinge plates to the inside of the doors and the cabinet frame.
- Make sure to use the correct pre-drilled holes, which are usually already there, to ensure the doors close precisely.
- The most important tools are a cordless drill and a screwdriver.
Common mistakes include ordering the wrong hinges (make sure they are PLATSA-specific) and screwing them in either too tightly or too loosely, which can affect the soft-close function. Also, check the door alignment, as the damping works best when the door is properly adjusted.
Great that you’re bringing up this topic, because soft-close really makes life more comfortable! 😀 I replaced the hinges in my place and can only recommend: just go for it! No professional skills are needed. Even if you think, “Oh no, IKEA cabinets,” everything is pretty well thought out. If you want to be safe, try it first on one door. The damping is noticeable and really cool! Good luck!
Interesting thread. I would just like to point out that simply replacing the hinges is not always the best solution if the cabinet frame or door is already slightly warped. Soft-close requires accurate internal dimensions and proper door alignment; otherwise, the damping mechanism may not work correctly and will wear out faster. I also wonder if there are any long-term stress tests showing that the PLATSA soft-close hinges are more durable than the standard versions, or if this is more of a comfort upgrade at the expense of longevity.
Jorgela schrieb:
So, you will need completely new hinges, screwdrivers, and possibly a cordless drill. Thank you for this clear answer. Does that mean I can’t just add a small extra soft-close damper that clamps or sticks onto the hinge arm to the old hinges?
onMarcos schrieb:
Pay attention to the correct drill holes, which are usually pre-drilled So, if you use the original PLATSA doors, is the replacement basically plug-and-play?
Jamalli schrieb:
Soft-close requires correct internal dimensions and door alignment; otherwise, the damping won’t work properly That’s a good point. Are there any tips for adjusting the doors before installing the soft-close hinges?
Similar topics