ᐅ How can I install Billy shelves in rental apartments without using wall anchors (dowels)?
Created on: 4 Nov 2023 10:13
G
GlanauHello everyone,
I am moving into a rental apartment soon and want to set up one or two Billy bookshelves there. Since I usually cannot drill holes or use wall plugs in rental properties (or at least do not want to make any permanent damage), I am wondering how to securely fix the shelves to the wall without drilling.
My main concern is stability and safety – the shelves should not just stand freely but have a firm mounting to prevent tipping or wobbling when loaded. Do you have any tips for alternatives to wall plugs, perhaps special adhesive solutions, tension systems, or other mounting methods suitable for rental agreements?
Thanks in advance for your experiences and ideas!
I am moving into a rental apartment soon and want to set up one or two Billy bookshelves there. Since I usually cannot drill holes or use wall plugs in rental properties (or at least do not want to make any permanent damage), I am wondering how to securely fix the shelves to the wall without drilling.
My main concern is stability and safety – the shelves should not just stand freely but have a firm mounting to prevent tipping or wobbling when loaded. Do you have any tips for alternatives to wall plugs, perhaps special adhesive solutions, tension systems, or other mounting methods suitable for rental agreements?
Thanks in advance for your experiences and ideas!
Hey, that sounds exciting! 🙂
I did something similar with my Billy shelves: using strong industrial adhesive tapes and a sealing strip hooked at the ceiling, which holds really well!
The great thing is, you can remove the shelf after moving out without any damage. Good luck, it’s definitely going to be amazing!
I did something similar with my Billy shelves: using strong industrial adhesive tapes and a sealing strip hooked at the ceiling, which holds really well!
The great thing is, you can remove the shelf after moving out without any damage. Good luck, it’s definitely going to be amazing!
Hello Glanau,
here is a guide based on my experience on how to install Billy shelves without using wall plugs:
1. Use so-called "tension shelves" or "door frame shelves." These are secured by pressing between floor and ceiling and require no drilling. Advantage: they are stable without damaging the walls.
2. If you want to use the classic Billy shelf, you can attach "adhesive mounting plates" to the wall. These use very strong adhesives and can be removed without leaving any residue.
3. Alternative: place the shelf on a non-slip mat to prevent it from sliding easily.
Be cautious with adhesive or tension solutions: their load capacity is limited. For heavy items, make sure the fixing method can support the weight.
Summary: In my opinion, tension shelves are the best investment if wall plugs are not an option.
here is a guide based on my experience on how to install Billy shelves without using wall plugs:
1. Use so-called "tension shelves" or "door frame shelves." These are secured by pressing between floor and ceiling and require no drilling. Advantage: they are stable without damaging the walls.
2. If you want to use the classic Billy shelf, you can attach "adhesive mounting plates" to the wall. These use very strong adhesives and can be removed without leaving any residue.
3. Alternative: place the shelf on a non-slip mat to prevent it from sliding easily.
Be cautious with adhesive or tension solutions: their load capacity is limited. For heavy items, make sure the fixing method can support the weight.
Summary: In my opinion, tension shelves are the best investment if wall plugs are not an option.
LOGEMIN schrieb:
Tension shelves are, in my opinion, the best investment when wall anchors are not an option.Thank you for the detailed reply! Could you perhaps provide more information about tension shelves? I assume these are shelves with some kind of telescopic pole fixed between floor and ceiling?
How stable are these systems under normal shelf loads, for example books or decorations? Are they also practical for somewhat higher ceilings (over 2.6 m (8.5 ft))?
I appreciate any tips, as I want to secure the shelf as safely as possible without modifying the walls.
Hello Glanau,
I can completely understand your concerns. Especially in rental apartments, people are often reluctant to drill into the walls. Regarding tension shelves: they usually work with rubber or screw tensioning mechanisms that press against the ceiling and floor. The stability is indeed impressive when they are properly adjusted.
If your ceilings are unusually high, there are systems with extendable poles or modular sets that allow height adjustment. Still, you should measure carefully and, if necessary, ask the manufacturer about the maximum lengths.
I personally have used such a shelf for books and plants, and it held up securely without any issues. Make sure to load the shelf evenly and avoid uneven weight distribution.
If you have any more questions, feel free to ask!
I can completely understand your concerns. Especially in rental apartments, people are often reluctant to drill into the walls. Regarding tension shelves: they usually work with rubber or screw tensioning mechanisms that press against the ceiling and floor. The stability is indeed impressive when they are properly adjusted.
If your ceilings are unusually high, there are systems with extendable poles or modular sets that allow height adjustment. Still, you should measure carefully and, if necessary, ask the manufacturer about the maximum lengths.
I personally have used such a shelf for books and plants, and it held up securely without any issues. Make sure to load the shelf evenly and avoid uneven weight distribution.
If you have any more questions, feel free to ask!
Similar topics