ᐅ Original Billy Regal screws are loosening – should I replace them or buy new ones?

Hello everyone,

I have a Billy bookshelf from Ikea, and unfortunately, I noticed that some of the original screws have been lost over time. I am now wondering whether it makes more sense to order the missing screws as replacement parts, if Ikea still offers them, or to buy the entire bookshelf new. My thought is that Ikea’s original screws might be better suited due to their precise dimensions, while replacement screws from a hardware store might not have the optimal quality or fit.

Does anyone have experience with ordering individual original screws for the Billy bookshelf? Or would buying a new one make more sense for reasons like stability, cost, or time savings? Are there any recommended sources for replacement materials?

I would appreciate it if you could share your opinions or advice, especially if you have weighed different options. Thanks in advance!

Hello prala,

I think your question is very valid, and I’d like to give you a structured answer:

First of all: The original fasteners for Billy bookcases are usually wood screws with a specific thread profile designed especially for the shelf holes. Replacement screws from a hardware store can work, but they are often a bit too thick or have a different thread type, which can cause stress in the wood and affect stability.

If you have only lost a few screws, I definitely recommend buying the original screws. Ikea typically offers these spare parts through their service centers or online. Advantages:
- Precise fit
- Ensured stability
- Visually matching

If your bookcase is older or damaged, a replacement might be a good idea—especially if several fixing points are missing or the shelf already seems unstable.

Summary:
1. Check how many screws are missing.
2. Try to get the original screws.
3. Consider buying a new bookcase only if there is significant damage or many screws are missing.

Hope this helps you out 😉

Ordering replacement screws from Ikea is usually more cost-effective than buying an entire shelving unit new. If you choose a hardware store alternative screw, make sure it matches the same length and thread type.

Hello prala,

I can understand that the decision is not an easy one. Especially with IKEA furniture like the Billy shelf, the screws are often quite unique.

fredle schrieb:
Replacement screws from the hardware store might work, but they are often slightly too thick or have a different thread type, which can cause stress in the wood and affect stability.

That’s a good point, and I can only confirm it. If the screw materials don’t fit exactly, you risk not only the screw not holding properly but also damaging the wood where it goes in.

In the past, I usually ordered replacements directly from IKEA because the prices for screws are reasonable and the quality is reliable. Of course, delivery can sometimes take a bit longer, but for me, that’s the best option.

However, if you need a screw quickly and only one, I would recommend a screw from the hardware store that matches the dimensions as closely as possible. It’s best to measure the old screw accurately (length, diameter, thread type).

One more tip: if you tend to lose multiple screws, consider a storage solution in advance so you don’t face this problem again in the future.

I hope this helps you 🙂

Thank you for your quick and helpful responses!

A specific follow-up question: Fredle recommended noting the exact number of missing screws before ordering replacements or considering a new purchase. I have now counted, and a total of 8 screws are missing.

The shelf is still stable, but on the side where the screws are missing, there is a slight movement that concerns me.

How do you assess this? Are 8 missing screws on a Billy shelf already a critical issue where it is better to buy a new one? Or can stability be ensured long-term by purchasing replacements and replacing all screws – including the ones still present, for example as a precaution?

I look forward to your opinions.

Hello prala,

I think it’s good that you are assessing the situation so carefully. Missing 8 screws should not be overlooked, especially if the shelf is already wobbling on the side. This is a clear sign that the structural integrity is compromised.

My detailed advice:

1. Screw type
The Billy shelf typically uses 3.5 mm (0.14 inch) wood screws with flat heads, with lengths ranging between 16 and 25 mm (0.6 and 1 inch) depending on the connection. The original special coating ensures better grip in the particleboard.

2. Complete set
I recommend replacing all screws in the affected connection point if 8 are missing. Over the years, screws can wear down slightly and loosening at other points can cause wobbling.

3. Alternatives
You can order replacements directly from Ikea, although availability varies by region. If you need screws quickly, purchasing from a hardware store is an option, but make sure to match the material (e.g., galvanized or stainless steel) and precise dimensions. Differences in quality have a noticeable impact on holding strength.

4. Inspection
Before installing new screws, it is advisable to inspect the drill holes. If the wood is torn out in some spots, holes can be repaired using wooden dowels or wood filler before inserting new screws.

5. Replacement
If the shelf is several years old and the particleboard is swollen or damaged, I believe buying a new shelf is the safer option in the long run.

In any case: document all measurements, screw types, and quantities before making any changes. This will help you avoid ordering the wrong parts.

Can you estimate how old the shelf is and how heavily it is used? That would be helpful for a better assessment.