ᐅ How do I choose the right anchors and screws for securely mounting IKEA BESTA units to walls?

Created on: 19 Jul 2023 09:12
J
Jonfe69
Hello everyone,

I am planning to mount my new IKEA BESTÅ shelf on a living room wall. The walls are masonry, but to be honest, I am unsure which anchors and screws I should use to ensure a secure installation.

I want to avoid the shelf becoming loose or even falling down after some time. It would also be helpful if someone could provide advice on what to consider when choosing anchors and screws, especially regarding different wall materials.

My detailed questions:
- What type of anchor is recommended for a plastered brick wall when installing an IKEA BESTÅ?
- What length and thickness of screws should I choose?
- Do I need special fasteners for heavy BESTÅ units?
- Has anyone had experience with additional reinforcement (e.g., metal brackets) on walls with drywall (plasterboard) or wood?

I look forward to your tips and mainly practical recommendations that other beginners can easily follow. Thanks in advance!
U
usbla
20 Jul 2023 10:25
Regarding the screws: For BESTÅ, galvanized chipboard screws are not ideal; galvanized or stainless steel screws with countersunk heads are better. The length depends on the anchor size and wall thickness, with 60mm (2.4 inches) being standard for 8mm (0.3 inches) anchors.

For extra security during overhead installation, I recommend screws with a length of at least 70mm (2.8 inches).
S
SUBEN60
20 Jul 2023 11:48
For drywall, always use metal or nylon hollow wall anchors that are rated for the specific load.

Metal brackets can provide additional support for wall fixtures but are not a substitute for choosing the correct anchors.

It is also important not to exceed the maximum load capacities specified by the anchor manufacturers.
L
lubla
20 Jul 2023 12:30
Paxton38 schrieb:
Special hollow wall anchors or metal expansion anchors are required for drywall.

It is important to emphasize that drywall cannot be loaded without using special anchors.

Also, always use at least two fixing points to prevent the BESTÅ from tipping over.
R
roryvin
20 Jul 2023 13:02
Summary for Beginners:
- For brick/masonry: use 8mm (5/16 inch) nylon universal anchors, 6x60mm (1/4x2 3/8 inch) screws, drill hole slightly larger in the plaster
- For drywall: use heavy-duty hollow wall anchors
- Metal brackets optional for extra security

This will hang the BESTÅ stable and secure.
J
Jonfe69
21 Jul 2023 09:14
Thank you very much for the detailed and clear explanations!

I have now purchased 8 mm (5/16 inch) nylon anchors and 6 x 60 mm (1/4 x 2 3/8 inch) countersunk screws. I will make the bigger drill hole in the plaster to shift the load onto the masonry.

I will also secure the shelf at four points to distribute the load better. For drywall, I will specifically look for cavity anchors.

If I have any more questions, I will get back to you. Thanks to everyone, very helpful!
K
koduga
21 Jul 2023 11:25
Jonfe69 schrieb:
I will implement the larger drill hole in the plaster to transfer the load to the masonry.

That is a good decision. This way, you avoid the plaster crumbling or breaking off at the fixing points over time.

Good luck with the installation!