ᐅ Installing a Billy Regal on a Screed Floor – Key Considerations

Hello everyone, I am currently planning to install a Billy shelf directly on a screed floor. I have the question: What special considerations should I keep in mind when mounting a Billy shelf on screed?

The screed has already been laid but has not yet been covered with flooring. I am concerned about stability, possible fastening options, as well as the issue of moisture and how it might affect the shelf structure. Does anyone also have experience with leveling measures or special installation methods in this situation?

I would really appreciate practical tips, especially regarding potential challenges and common mistakes when installing on screed.

Good approach to the question, JAFEPI!

When assembling a Billy shelf unit on screed, there are several important points to consider:

First, because screed is often still relatively smooth and may be slightly dusty, I recommend thoroughly cleaning the surface before assembly to remove dust and particles. This improves stability and prevents slipping.

Second, moisture in freshly laid screed is a critical factor. Ideally, screed should have a residual moisture content below 2%, otherwise moisture can gradually penetrate the wood or metal of the shelf supports and cause damage. A vapor barrier film or a suitable sealing on the screed can help minimize this effect.

Third, it is important to check whether the shelf is free-standing only or additionally fixed in place. When directly fastening to the wall, holes must be drilled into the wall—the screed itself is normally not load-bearing for fastening.

If the shelf is very large or heavily loaded, it is advisable to distribute the load using additional leveling plates or special felt or rubber pads under the shelf feet to avoid pressure marks on the screed and to stabilize the standing position.

Question: Is your screed cement-based or anhydrite? This significantly affects moisture sensitivity.

Ernesto schrieb:
Question: Is your screed cement-based or anhydrite? That significantly affects moisture levels.

Thank you for the detailed answer! The screed is cement-based and has been newly installed for about four weeks, but I believe the residual moisture is already below 2%.

So, does that mean additional moisture protection is probably not necessary? Also, I am currently considering not attaching the shelf to the wall but setting it up freestanding.

What effects would you expect on stability and long-term condition if the shelf is simply placed on the screed without additional fixing? And how important are load distribution and any support points in that case?

If the screed floor is fully dried and the shelf is not going to hold an unusually heavy load, there is no reason not to place the Billy shelf freestanding on it. However, make sure to check the feet carefully: unevenness in the floor or small irregularities can cause the shelf to tip over.

Based on my own experience, I recommend attaching small self-adhesive felt pads or thin rubber pads under the shelf feet. This prevents abrasion on the screed and provides a secure grip against minor vibrations or uneven flooring.

Additionally, you should regularly check the shelf for any shifting. Especially with direct contact on screed, dust between the feet and floor can increase the risk of slipping.

I’d like to quickly add a slightly relaxed note regarding stability 🙂

Anyone who has ever tried to assemble a bookshelf on freshly laid screed knows the thrill when the screed is still slightly damp or uneven – that’s when the shelf can start to wobble a bit.

Tip: Use a spirit level during assembly to properly align the shelves and side panels. If you notice it becoming unstable, placing small wooden shims underneath can help compensate for minor height differences.

And don’t worry, the structure is actually quite sturdy; you just need a bit of patience and a delicate touch. A few little tricks make all the difference between "wobbling like a plate at dinner" and "standing rock-solid." 🙂

In addition to the tips from KIN42 and pinpa:

Screed floors in new constructions or renovations are often still delicate. The main focus should definitely be on how the loads are distributed. Although the Billy shelf is designed to be balanced, point loads on the feet can cause pressure marks or, on uneven floors, lead to tilting.

Moisture can also cause wooden feet to swell or metal components to rust. Even if the screed appears dry, it is worthwhile to use a vapor-permeable protective film under the feet. For good reason, I have always used thin PVC sheets or cork as buffers.

JAFEPI schrieb:
What effects do you expect on the stability and long-term condition if the shelf is “only” standing on the screed without additional fixing?

Stability is usually good as long as the shelf has full contact with the floor and no loose substrate is present. For long-term durability, it is important that no moisture rises and no shifting occurs.

Direct wall fixing is naturally more stable, but if the shelf is unloaded or taller than 2 meters (6.6 feet), a freestanding setup can be sufficient.

Perhaps you could also provide some information about room temperatures and ventilation? This can also affect screed moisture and stability.