ᐅ How can I prevent scratches when moving BILLY shelves?

Created on: 14 Aug 2020 08:43
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Vilhelm1
Hello everyone,

I recently repositioned my Billy shelves, but I want to avoid unsightly scratches on the surface. Especially with typical MDF surfaces covered with laminate, the risk is quite high. My question for you is: What proven methods or tools do you use to effectively prevent scratches when moving shelves? I have already considered felt pads, cardboard sheets, or carefully lifting the shelves, but I would like to hear more opinions and practical tips. I am also interested in any specific techniques for carrying or setting down the shelves that have proven helpful, especially with large BILLY shelves that have multiple adjustable shelves. Thanks in advance!
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flo-Theres
14 Aug 2020 11:38
In addition to the tips already provided, I recommend paying attention when lifting the shelf by not only using your hands but also keeping your back straight and bending your knees to distribute the load evenly. This reduces the risk of the shelf swaying while being carried and making uncontrolled contact with the surface, which could cause scratches.

It is also advisable to clear the moving path in advance to avoid unnecessary tripping hazards. This allows the piece of furniture to be moved more smoothly and with better control.

If the shelf is on a hard floor and needs to be shifted briefly, using a furniture fabric—a heavy, smooth cloth—as an underlay can be very helpful. Place it under the shelf, put the furniture on top, and move it this way to prevent scratches.
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Juansi50
15 Aug 2020 08:22
Repositioning is easy using sliders under the feet. Never pull or push; always lift. Remove the shelves beforehand.
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Demetrius
15 Aug 2020 09:37
I read your post with great interest. I have a similar experience when rearranging my BILLY shelves. What helped me the most was, first, completely emptying the shelf to make it lighter. Second, carrying it with two people to avoid floor unevenness and unsafe handling.
JAFUHAU schrieb:
A solution I’ve also found are so-called furniture casters that can be temporarily placed underneath

That sounds interesting. Do you have a specific recommendation for which furniture casters have worked well with BILLY shelves? That would definitely make things easier in the future since I wouldn’t have to carry the furniture as heavily.
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JAFUHAU
15 Aug 2020 10:55
Demetrius schrieb:
do you have any specific recommendations for furniture casters that work well with BILLY shelves?

Hello Demetrius, yes, I bought wardrobe furniture casters with lockable brakes. It is important that the casters can be attached either with self-adhesive backing or screws and that they can support the weight. I bought these casters online for about 10 euros per pair and usually just temporarily clipped them under the shelf. This makes the shelf much easier to move without damaging the floor, as the casters have soft wheels.
Demetrius schrieb:
because I don’t have to carry the furniture as heavily then

That was exactly the most helpful part for me since I often rearranged alone. But when attaching the casters, make sure they are properly fitted, otherwise the shelf might tip over. If you have help, lifting the shelf is usually the safer option.