ᐅ Experiences with multiple coats of paint on Kallax shelving after color fading?
Created on: 7 Oct 2021 13:46
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REN64Hello everyone,
Some time ago, I applied several coats of paint to my Kallax shelf to achieve a certain level of protection and an even finish. Unfortunately, I recently noticed that frequent use has caused noticeable paint wear in some areas, especially on the edges and surfaces that are often touched. My question is: What experiences do you have with multiple layers of paint on Kallax shelves, particularly regarding paint wear and protection loss over time?
I’m interested in how well different types of paint hold up, whether applying several coats is really worthwhile, or if this issue can only be solved with specific preparation methods or paint types. Are there any tips to improve durability?
Thanks in advance for your feedback!
Some time ago, I applied several coats of paint to my Kallax shelf to achieve a certain level of protection and an even finish. Unfortunately, I recently noticed that frequent use has caused noticeable paint wear in some areas, especially on the edges and surfaces that are often touched. My question is: What experiences do you have with multiple layers of paint on Kallax shelves, particularly regarding paint wear and protection loss over time?
I’m interested in how well different types of paint hold up, whether applying several coats is really worthwhile, or if this issue can only be solved with specific preparation methods or paint types. Are there any tips to improve durability?
Thanks in advance for your feedback!
REN64 schrieb:
My question is: What experiences do you have with multiple coats of paint on the Kallax, especially regarding color and protective wear over time?This is an interesting question. In general, the durability of multiple paint layers depends not only on the paint itself but also heavily on surface preparation. IKEA uses a foil or melamine resin coating on the Kallax, which is not always ideal for painting. Without a proper primer, paint often adheres poorly.
REN64 schrieb:
Are there any tips to improve durability?One tip would be to sand the surface before painting and use a bonding primer suitable for foil or melamine surfaces. Also, applying several thin coats with sanding in between is better than applying a few thick layers.
Are you sure you followed this approach? In my opinion, painting without priming is not a sustainable solution.
Hello,
I would like to share a brief guide on how to best apply multiple coats of paint to Kallax shelves in order to prevent color loss and damage over time.
1. Preparation: The biggest challenge with Kallax is that the surface is usually coated with foil or melamine. This needs to be lightly sanded first — ideally with a 220-grit sanding pad or fine sandpaper. This helps the paint adhere better.
2. Primer: Always use a primer based on acrylic or synthetic resin that is suitable for foil surfaces. Only with a primer does the paint provide stable adhesion.
3. Paint application: I recommend applying at least three thin coats of paint, sanding lightly between each coat to achieve a smooth finish.
4. Type of paint: Matte or satin-finish acrylic-based paint is usually best. Alkyd paints are somewhat harder but take longer to dry and may yellow over time.
5. Drying: Allow each coat to dry thoroughly before applying the next one (at least 12 hours).
6. Finishing: For even greater durability, a clear coat sealer based on polyurethane can be applied.
Summary: Multiple coats of paint are worthwhile, but only with proper preparation and priming. Without these steps, the paint will not adhere well and color loss or flaking can occur quickly.
I hope this helps 🙂
I would like to share a brief guide on how to best apply multiple coats of paint to Kallax shelves in order to prevent color loss and damage over time.
1. Preparation: The biggest challenge with Kallax is that the surface is usually coated with foil or melamine. This needs to be lightly sanded first — ideally with a 220-grit sanding pad or fine sandpaper. This helps the paint adhere better.
2. Primer: Always use a primer based on acrylic or synthetic resin that is suitable for foil surfaces. Only with a primer does the paint provide stable adhesion.
3. Paint application: I recommend applying at least three thin coats of paint, sanding lightly between each coat to achieve a smooth finish.
4. Type of paint: Matte or satin-finish acrylic-based paint is usually best. Alkyd paints are somewhat harder but take longer to dry and may yellow over time.
5. Drying: Allow each coat to dry thoroughly before applying the next one (at least 12 hours).
6. Finishing: For even greater durability, a clear coat sealer based on polyurethane can be applied.
Summary: Multiple coats of paint are worthwhile, but only with proper preparation and priming. Without these steps, the paint will not adhere well and color loss or flaking can occur quickly.
I hope this helps 🙂
REN64 schrieb:
What are your experiences with multiple coats of paint on the Kallax, especially regarding color and protective wear over time?The Kallax shelf unit presents a particular challenge since the surface isn't made of solid wood. I applied multiple coats of paint to create a durable protective layer, but after about a year, the paint showed visible wear on heavily used edges.
Jensson schrieb:
The main issue with Kallax is that the surface is usually covered with foil or melamine. This needs to be lightly sanded first—ideally with a 220-grit sanding pad or fine sandpaper. That way, the paint adheres better.I completely agree with that. One mistake I made was not sanding the surface thoroughly enough.
However, the question remains how much durability can realistically be expected from a furniture surface with a foil-based coating. For long-term durability, purchasing a new unit might be more economical than repeatedly repainting.
What are your thoughts on cost-effectiveness? Is the effort and material worth it, or would another solution be cheaper?
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