ᐅ How can I increase the load-bearing capacity of IKEA Hemnes furniture?
Created on: 2 Jun 2021 08:17
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nau_jon
Hello everyone, some time ago I purchased several pieces of furniture from the IKEA Hemnes range, mainly cabinets and dressers. Now I am wondering how I can sustainably increase the load-bearing capacity of this furniture.
I am not only concerned with superficial stability but also want them to remain stable over time under higher loads—such as from placing heavier items or frequent opening and closing.
What measures would you recommend to strengthen the material and construction without compromising the look or functionality? For example, I was thinking about adding internal reinforcements or applying special fasteners.
Does anyone have experience, perhaps with alternative fixings, wood types, or joint techniques that improve load capacity? Are there specific weak points in Hemnes furniture that should be reinforced intentionally?
I look forward to your tips and experiences!
I am not only concerned with superficial stability but also want them to remain stable over time under higher loads—such as from placing heavier items or frequent opening and closing.
What measures would you recommend to strengthen the material and construction without compromising the look or functionality? For example, I was thinking about adding internal reinforcements or applying special fasteners.
Does anyone have experience, perhaps with alternative fixings, wood types, or joint techniques that improve load capacity? Are there specific weak points in Hemnes furniture that should be reinforced intentionally?
I look forward to your tips and experiences!
Z
zarHenning2 Jun 2021 13:37Simply reinforce the back panels, preferably with 1.5 cm (0.6 inches) thick battens applied horizontally. Always pre-drill the screws to prevent splitting.
Using large screws at the joints helps, as long as they are installed carefully.
Using large screws at the joints helps, as long as they are installed carefully.
Hey, great question! I replaced the back panel of my Hemnes dresser with a 5 mm (0.2 inch) thick multiplex plywood and also added metal brackets in the corners. This noticeably doubled the stability!
Additionally, I treated the surfaces with clear varnish, since moisture can sometimes get in and this way the wood is less likely to warp quickly.
I can definitely recommend this to anyone – it really gives the furniture a serious power boost!
Additionally, I treated the surfaces with clear varnish, since moisture can sometimes get in and this way the wood is less likely to warp quickly.
I can definitely recommend this to anyone – it really gives the furniture a serious power boost!
nau_jon schrieb:
Do you think the back panels should be completely replaced? Or is it enough to just screw thin battens across them?It depends on the intended use. For normal loads, reinforcement with battens is sufficient.
For higher loads, replacing them with a sturdy plywood panel is better, as it provides much greater rigidity in depth.
Screws should always be used with pre-drilled holes to prevent the wood from splitting.
Just wanted to add: If you move the furniture often, metal brackets are definitely worth it! Otherwise, the joints tend to become loose quickly.
And yes, upgrading the back panel makes a huge difference. It basically gives your Hemnes pieces an upgrade, almost like a small DIY level-up! 🎉
And yes, upgrading the back panel makes a huge difference. It basically gives your Hemnes pieces an upgrade, almost like a small DIY level-up! 🎉
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