ᐅ Are there affordable edge banding options for KALLAX available at home improvement stores?

Created on: 16 Jan 2016 10:17
M
Miixjon
Hello everyone!

I have a fairly specific question that’s been on my mind for some time, and I’m hoping someone with relevant experience can help: Are there affordable edge bandings suitable for the IKEA KALLAX shelving unit that can be found at hardware stores?

I’m looking for a solution that is not only cost-effective but also convincing in terms of durability and ease of application. Since KALLAX has quite thin edges, it’s important to me that the edge banding isn’t too thick and adheres well to the MDF.

Maybe someone has tips on particular brands, hardware store chains, or alternative sources for so-called "edge bandings" that have already been tried and tested?

Thanks in advance for your replies!
K
kla65
16 Jan 2016 12:41
At the hardware store, you sometimes have to make compromises. For KALLAX, an inexpensive PVC edge banding that is easy to bend is sufficient. Just use it; for special colors, there simply isn’t a standard solution.
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GLORIA
16 Jan 2016 13:15
From a professional standpoint, I recommend the following approach for inexpensive edge banding for KALLAX purchased at a DIY store:

- Look for an edge banding type that is at least 0.4 mm (0.016 inches) thick, as KALLAX edges are thin.
- Color: White is indeed the most neutral and is usually available as a standard option at DIY stores.
- Make sure the edge banding has self-adhesive or heat-activated adhesive properties, as otherwise the adhesion tends to fail quickly.
- For DIY store products, I suggest brands like "Tesa" or "d-c-fix," which sometimes deliver very good results.

A durable solution is possible with DIY store edge banding, but it requires some patience during application.
C
carstenreo
16 Jan 2016 15:02
My tip: I bought inexpensive edge banding for my KALLAX shelf at a hardware store and I’m really satisfied! 🙂

It was important to me that it could be easily ironed on and holds well. Using an iron and some careful pressing worked perfectly. The price was really great, and the result looks professional. If you want to save money, definitely check out stores like Obi or Hornbach!
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George
16 Jan 2016 15:57
carstenreo schrieb:
The price was really great, and the result looks professional.

I agree, often the edge banding for KALLAX at the home improvement store is good enough quality. Just make sure to get the right width and a matching color.
D
Danabla
17 Jan 2016 09:03
Additionally, I would like to point out that, besides the quality of the edge banding, the bonding method is also crucial. DIY store edge bandings are usually heat-activated, which can cause delamination if the temperature is incorrect or the work is done too quickly.

A topic that is often underestimated is edge preparation: dust and unevenness must be thoroughly removed to ensure the edge banding adheres fully.
M
Miixjon
17 Jan 2016 09:47
Danabla schrieb:
Make sure to remove dust and unevenness thoroughly so the edge banding adheres properly.

Thank you for the important tip on preparation! That explains why my DIY project once failed at the edge banding stage.

Danabla, could you please briefly explain how you prepared the edges precisely? Is a damp cloth and fine sandpaper enough?