ᐅ After painting, my KALLAX doors no longer close properly – any advice?
Created on: 15 Mar 2023 08:13
I
IRAKLI52
Hello everyone,
I just refinished my IKEA KALLAX to improve the surface a bit. However, now I have the problem that the doors no longer close properly. It feels like the doors are rubbing or catching somewhere, so the latch doesn’t engage fully.
I haven’t changed the hinges or mounting hardware, but I suspect that maybe the new paint layer slightly altered the dimensions or was applied too thickly. Perhaps the alignment is also off?
Has anyone experienced something similar or have tips on how to restore proper functionality? I’d prefer not to replace the doors right away but to gradually identify where the problem is. Thanks in advance!
I just refinished my IKEA KALLAX to improve the surface a bit. However, now I have the problem that the doors no longer close properly. It feels like the doors are rubbing or catching somewhere, so the latch doesn’t engage fully.
I haven’t changed the hinges or mounting hardware, but I suspect that maybe the new paint layer slightly altered the dimensions or was applied too thickly. Perhaps the alignment is also off?
Has anyone experienced something similar or have tips on how to restore proper functionality? I’d prefer not to replace the doors right away but to gradually identify where the problem is. Thanks in advance!
I would like to add a few technical details:
When painting doors, especially those with hinges and locks like on the KALLAX, the paint film can affect the tolerances. Even small irregularities on the contact surfaces between the door and the frame can affect the closing.
Painting without proper masking or mechanical sanding beforehand can reduce the gap for the door. This leads to increased friction.
My advice:
1. Remove the doors and measure the gap at various points.
2. Check whether the hinges are still properly seated and not obstructed by paint.
3. If necessary, slightly reduce the paint layer in the door rebate.
If you feel that the paint layer has completely clogged the door rebate, gentle sanding of the rebate edge would be advisable.
Important: When reinstalling, make sure everything fits correctly—using a spirit level or angle bracket is best.
When painting doors, especially those with hinges and locks like on the KALLAX, the paint film can affect the tolerances. Even small irregularities on the contact surfaces between the door and the frame can affect the closing.
Painting without proper masking or mechanical sanding beforehand can reduce the gap for the door. This leads to increased friction.
My advice:
1. Remove the doors and measure the gap at various points.
2. Check whether the hinges are still properly seated and not obstructed by paint.
3. If necessary, slightly reduce the paint layer in the door rebate.
If you feel that the paint layer has completely clogged the door rebate, gentle sanding of the rebate edge would be advisable.
Important: When reinstalling, make sure everything fits correctly—using a spirit level or angle bracket is best.
In my opinion, when painting furniture, the tip to keep the paint layer evenly thick is invaluable. If it’s applied a bit too thickly, suddenly the door can stick.
Sometimes it also helps to gently warm the door around the hinges with a bit of heat (a light warming, for example using a hairdryer on a low setting) and then carefully adjust it slightly – this can compensate for minor distortions to some extent. 😏
But always be cautious to avoid causing any further damage!
Sometimes it also helps to gently warm the door around the hinges with a bit of heat (a light warming, for example using a hairdryer on a low setting) and then carefully adjust it slightly – this can compensate for minor distortions to some extent. 😏
But always be cautious to avoid causing any further damage!
Thanks in advance for the advice!
A few more details from my side: I applied the paint using a fine spray mist, so it didn’t create thick streaks. I tried to avoid painting the hinges, yet the paint still seems a bit thicker along the rebate edges on the inside of the doors.
I was also thinking about removing the doors completely and using fine sandpaper on the critical spots to reduce the thickness.
Can anyone confirm whether it’s better to remove the doors first or to sand them directly while attached to the furniture?
I also find the idea of using graphite powder interesting. Where is the best place to get it?
A few more details from my side: I applied the paint using a fine spray mist, so it didn’t create thick streaks. I tried to avoid painting the hinges, yet the paint still seems a bit thicker along the rebate edges on the inside of the doors.
I was also thinking about removing the doors completely and using fine sandpaper on the critical spots to reduce the thickness.
Can anyone confirm whether it’s better to remove the doors first or to sand them directly while attached to the furniture?
I also find the idea of using graphite powder interesting. Where is the best place to get it?
IRAKLI52 schrieb:
Can anyone confirm whether it is better to remove the doors first or to sand them directly while still attached to the furniture?It is generally recommended to remove the doors first. This allows you to work more precisely, avoid unsightly sanding marks on the cabinet body, and cleanly reach all edges. Additionally, you can better inspect the hinges afterward and adjust them if necessary.
You can find graphite powder in well-stocked hardware stores or online. It is often recommended for lock cylinders or padlocks to improve smooth movement without lubricating.
Alternatively, a small amount of wax or a special silicone spray can be used. Just use sparingly to avoid staining the paint! 😊
Alternatively, a small amount of wax or a special silicone spray can be used. Just use sparingly to avoid staining the paint! 😊
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