ᐅ How do you check if Billy shelves are deep enough?

Thank you very much for the many helpful answers! To summarize, here is my understanding:

- The nominal depth of about 28 cm (11 inches) for Billy shelves should always be used as a guideline, but it’s important to measure again carefully once assembled.
- The internal dimensions up to the back panel are crucial, as back panels and screws can reduce the usable depth.
- Practical tests with boxes or suitable items help to better assess everyday storage space.
- Allow a small margin to make it easier to take items out.
- For very precise measurements, laser measuring devices are a good aid.
- The load capacity and possible deformation of the shelves should also be considered when storing heavy items.

Can this be accepted as a procedure for checking? Or do you think something important is still missing? I want to make sure I don’t face any unpleasant surprises later regarding insufficient depths.

torben56 schrieb:
Can this be considered a valid approach for inspection? Or do you think something important is still missing?

You have summarized it accurately. As an addition: if you place folders and books across the full width of the shelf, you should also consider the load on the middle shelves, as slight sagging can change the perceived depth.

Therefore, it may be worthwhile to use additional rear supports or stronger shelves if you plan to store a lot of weight. This will help you avoid not only damage but also changes in space usage.

tra_nina schrieb:
So it might be worth considering additional rear supports or stronger shelves if you plan to carry a lot of weight

Thank you, I will definitely keep that in mind. I mainly want to use the shelf for heavy textbooks and work materials, so I don’t want to take any risks.

One last question: Are you aware if Billy shelves generally have any give, meaning, for example, that the depth might slightly increase or decrease under load? Or does the dimension stay stable as long as the shelf is not damaged?

torben56 schrieb:
One last question: Do you know if Billy shelves generally have any play, for example, if the depth changes slightly under load?

Basically, Billy boards are made of particleboard with a foil coating. Under normal load, the dimensions remain stable.

However, under heavy load, there can be minimal bending, which does not so much change the depth but causes the back of the shelf to sag slightly, making the shelf bottom slightly concave.

This can result in items with shallow depth touching the shelf bottom at the edge, even though the internal dimensions remain the same.

My advice: If your shelf will be heavily loaded, it is recommended to use additional support braces or avoid maximum load to prevent permanent deformation.