ᐅ How can I safely install IKEA PLATSA furniture in rental apartments?

Created on: 2 May 2022 08:17
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Amarja
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Amarja
2 May 2022 08:17
Hello everyone, I am planning to assemble IKEA Platsa furniture in my rental apartment and want to secure the furniture in a way that is safe and tenant-friendly. Since PLATSA systems are often quite large and heavy, I am wondering what the best way is to install this furniture without damaging the walls or upsetting the landlord? Are there any specific tips or materials to ensure stability, especially if you prefer not to use traditional wall anchors? I would appreciate detailed advice, preferably based on experience, on how to mount the furniture securely, stably, and with minimal traces.
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CHENFAR
2 May 2022 09:04
When installing heavy furniture in rental apartments, the structural integrity of the mounting must account for both the weight of the furniture and the wall construction. Although PLATSA units are modular, heavy pieces should always be properly secured to prevent accidents. I recommend the following approach: - Estimate the weight of each module before installation. - For drywall (plasterboard) walls, always use special hollow wall anchors or metal expansion anchors. - Alternatively, if anchors are not allowed, secure furniture to lightweight walls using so-called furniture anchors or toggle bolts. - Using wall mounting kits with two to three fixing points is also advisable. - If in doubt, always ask the landlord for permission to install anchors beforehand.
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Sinan-meo
2 May 2022 09:39
I agree with CHENFAR. Especially for rental apartments with drywall walls, choosing the right anchors is crucial. If the goal is to minimize damage, there are special wall fixings that can be easily removed during disassembly. If you want to avoid drilling holes, consider using floor-to-ceiling poles that work without drilling. However, these solutions are, first of all, more expensive and, secondly, not as stable as anchors that are securely fixed. Alternatively, furniture can be arranged so it stands against the wall without being attached, but this is risky for tall cabinets.
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bapar
2 May 2022 10:22
For safety and stability with PLATSA systems in rental apartments: a crucial factor is the floor condition as well as the wall structure. In the past, I have often followed three steps: first, a precise assessment of the load profile (weight, center of gravity); second, a thorough examination of the wall (solid, drywall, plaster); and third, choosing the appropriate fastening materials. A tip for PLATSA: the individual modules should be screwed together and reinforced internally if needed to increase their inherent stability. Then they can be fixed to the wall at just a few points, which reduces the number of drill marks. For drywall, I recommend metal anchors (e.g., toggle bolts) or heavy-duty anchors that hold securely in the cavity. If possible, press the vertical edges of the furniture directly against the wall and secure only at the top; this makes installation and future adjustments easier. Can you describe how your walls are constructed?
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Amarja
2 May 2022 11:07
bapar schrieb:
Can you explain how your walls are constructed?

Thanks for your reply, bapar! In my case, the wall consists of a standard solid plaster on concrete. I assume that the weight of two to three PLATSA units (depending on size, about 30-50 kg (66-110 lbs) per unit) could be secured with standard anchors, right? My main concern is how to fix the entire structure so it doesn’t wobble or tip over, without damaging the plaster on the surface. Are there any tips to consider when assembling the units? Also, I’m curious whether fastening the PLATSA units to the wall is really necessary, or if they can stand stable on their own.
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CHENFAR
2 May 2022 11:45
Amarja schrieb:
In my case, the wall consists of a standard solid plaster applied on concrete.

In that case, standard expansion anchors or plastic wall plugs should work well. It is important that the anchors are rated for the load they will carry. Securing against tipping is not just about the anchors but also about the type of fixing used. My recommendation is to always attach the furniture to the wall at the top with at least two fixing points. For example, use the supplied brackets or suitable metal brackets that increase stability. If a unit is very tall, I would also place non-slip pads at the bottom to prevent sliding. If you want to protect the plaster, you can try carefully pre-drilling the holes with a small drill bit and avoid using oversized anchors.