ᐅ How do I properly install Ikea PAX wardrobes in a corner?

Created on: 11 May 2018 18:37
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kar47
Hello everyone, I’m currently working on a project to install and align two Ikea Pax wardrobes in a corner of my bedroom. Unfortunately, mounting them in a room corner presents some challenges, especially regarding how to join the two wardrobes, align the doors, and fix them to walls made of different materials (drywall and concrete).

My questions are: How do I position the two Pax wardrobes correctly so that they fit flush into the corner without gaps between the wardrobes and the walls? What connection methods are recommended for the corner joint to ensure stability and even door spacing? Are there any specific tips for fixing to different types of walls?

I have general DIY skills but have only installed Pax wardrobes on flat walls before. Any detailed advice or a checklist would be greatly appreciated!
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vinicius44
11 May 2018 20:22
I would add that before installation, it should be checked whether the walls are truly at a 90-degree angle to each other. Even small deviations can cause problems. If there is a deviation, it is advisable to slightly offset the cabinet that stands against the drywall or use thin spacers to achieve a flush appearance later on. Additionally, I recommend making the cabinet feet fully adjustable and rechecking all measurements and door gaps before completing the installation. When fastening to drywall, additional reinforcements behind the wall can be useful if accessible.
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noge58
11 May 2018 20:56
That sounds really well thought out already! 😃 One small tip: If you don’t fully tighten the first screws for the corner connectors right away, you can still adjust the cabinets a bit before everything is fixed in place! This way, you can also get the doors aligned better, and the cabinets will fit together smoothly. After assembly, double-check the gaps around the doors — they can be easily adjusted using the hinges. You’ve got this!
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kar47
11 May 2018 21:14
Thank you very much for the many tips! One thing I'm still unsure about: How exactly should I handle fastening with the different wall materials? Is it enough to attach the cabinets only to the concrete wall, or should I secure them on both sides? The drywall is non-load-bearing, so I’m considering whether it might be better to install an additional wooden batten or mounting board behind the wall to distribute the load more effectively. Alternatively, do you have any experience with how stable Ikea Pax cabinets are when mounted solely with anchors on drywall?
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figata
11 May 2018 21:38
For drywall partitions, I always recommend adding extra reinforcement based on experience. Either use a mounting panel behind the wall or build up the space between the wall and the cabinet with wooden battens. This reduces the stress on cavity anchors, which are only designed for lighter loads. Fixing the cabinet solely to the concrete wall can be helpful, but over time it may cause issues if the corner joint is not completely rigid. Since Ikea PAX wardrobes are not particularly heavy on their own, but the door movements and contents put additional strain on the wall fixings, both sides should be firmly secured. Slightly offset mounting on the drywall side with a batten behind the wall distributes the load well and ensures long-lasting stability.
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pauPierce
11 May 2018 22:05
figata schrieb:

Based on my experience, I always recommend additional reinforcement for drywall partitions.

I fully agree with that. Drywall has limited load-bearing capacity, so installing a wooden batten behind the wall or screwing into existing service studs is advisable. Alternatively, you can screw directly into floor or ceiling joists if the construction allows. It is important to carefully plan the exact locations of the fastening points before installation and to check the stability. I also recommend positioning the cabinets so that they support each other. When using Ikea corner connectors, the joint is sufficiently form-fitting, but all four legs must be perfectly adjusted to prevent wobbling. Adjustable furniture glides are also recommended to compensate for uneven floors.
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Alice
12 May 2018 08:17
In general, securely attach both cabinets to the wall and ensure precise alignment. Reinforce the drywall side with a wooden strip, as this helps significantly; otherwise, the mounting may become unstable. The doors should be adjusted after installation.