ᐅ Are there any tips for the best screws to use with Billy?

Hello everyone, I am currently assembling a Billy bookshelf from Ikea and have some uncertainties regarding the choice of screws. My specific question is: Are there any proven tips or recommendations for the best screws to use with Billy bookshelves? I am particularly interested in which screw materials, lengths, and diameters work best to create a stable connection without damaging the wood. It would also be helpful to know whether the original Ikea screws are sufficient or if it is better to use alternatives. Who has practical experience or can offer technical advice? Thanks in advance for your expertise!

Hello bochen, very good and precise question! I’d be happy to share some proven tips to help you choose the right screws for your Billy bookshelf.

First of all: The original screws from Ikea are usually sufficient if you assemble the shelf according to the instructions and the load remains normal. These screws are typically zinc-plated and have standard dimensions that work well with the MDF wood and the adhesive bonding.

However, if you want greater stability or longer durability, it is recommended to use stainless steel screws. These are corrosion-resistant and especially suitable if the shelf is placed in slightly more humid environments, for example.

Regarding screw size: A diameter of 4 to 5 mm (0.16 to 0.2 inches) is usually ideal. The length should be chosen so that it securely penetrates the material but does not go through the back. For Billy shelves, screws about 30 to 40 mm (1.2 to 1.6 inches) long are often suitable.

A common mistake is using screws that are too long, which can cause the wood to split or break. Using a suitable pilot hole can prevent this.

In summary:
- Original screws are fine for standard use
- Stainless steel screws for better corrosion resistance
- Screws with 4–5 mm (0.16–0.2 inch) diameter, 30–40 mm (1.2–1.6 inch) length
- Pre-drilling if you’re unsure

I hope this helps you!

Sepele schrieb:
The original screws from Ikea are usually sufficient

This is only partially true, as it largely depends on the intended use and the type of wood in the Billy bookshelf. The classic Billy is made of laminated particleboard (MDF or similar), which can easily split if the wrong screws are used.

I like to go into more detail with my recommendation: I usually choose stainless steel chipboard screws with a sharp thread, as they hold better in MDF and cause less splitting. A countersunk head is advisable to sink the screw flush with the shelf surface.

The length should ideally be between 35 mm and a maximum of 40 mm (1.4 to 1.6 inches), depending on the thickness of the panels you want to screw together. Longer screws can split the wood or protrude through the back, which weakens stability.

Also, I recommend not applying maximum force when screwing but rather pre-drilling. This prevents splitting and ensures an even distribution of pressure.

One more thing: if you plan to load the shelf heavily, for example with heavy books, I recommend using metal brackets or additional reinforcements fastened with screws to significantly increase stability.

How about you? Do you plan to load the shelf lightly or heavily?

TEBILO schrieb:
I usually recommend using stainless steel chipboard screws with a sharp thread

I agree, but I would like to point out that stainless steel screws shouldn’t always be recommended as a rule: for indoor use, galvanized steel is often sufficient, as it is cheaper and offers similar mechanical strength.

However, if the shelf is placed in damp rooms or near the kitchen, stainless steel really makes sense. Otherwise, it’s usually overkill, especially since Billy is not intended for outdoor use.

Furthermore, I think Ikea’s original choice of screws is designed pragmatically: Ikea provides simple, clean solutions that allow for quick assembly.

My question to everyone: how do you evaluate the compromise between durability, stability, and cost when choosing screws for Billy? Is it really necessary to buy more expensive screws, or are the standard ones adequate? I feel this topic is sometimes overrated.