ᐅ IKEA Besta: How do I build a combination with glass shelves?
Created on: 17 Feb 2024 09:13
J
Jamaalpe
Hello everyone, I’m planning to build an IKEA Besta unit with glass shelves and wanted to ask for tips here in the forum on the best way to approach this. Specifically, I want to integrate both closed and open glass shelving elements to create storage space while also achieving an airy look. I’m particularly interested in
- which fittings are best suited for the glass shelves
- how to optimally align and stabilize the glass shelves
- whether there are certain Besta module combinations that work better
- and any special considerations during installation, especially regarding load-bearing capacity
Looking forward to any advice from your experience – maybe someone has a building guide or proven method? Thanks in advance!
- which fittings are best suited for the glass shelves
- how to optimally align and stabilize the glass shelves
- whether there are certain Besta module combinations that work better
- and any special considerations during installation, especially regarding load-bearing capacity
Looking forward to any advice from your experience – maybe someone has a building guide or proven method? Thanks in advance!
Here is a possible step-by-step assembly guide for the combination with glass shelves:
- Assemble and position the cabinet frame
- Mark the desired height of the glass shelves on the inner walls of the cabinet
- Clip the brackets into the pre-formed holes at the marked height
- Place the rubber buffers onto the brackets
- Carefully position the glass shelves and check for evenness
- For multiple units, secure the connection between the cabinet frames and finally
- Always secure to the wall, especially for open units
Common pitfalls: brackets not fully snapping into place, or glass shelves with corners rubbing against the frame. It’s better to double-check several times.
- Assemble and position the cabinet frame
- Mark the desired height of the glass shelves on the inner walls of the cabinet
- Clip the brackets into the pre-formed holes at the marked height
- Place the rubber buffers onto the brackets
- Carefully position the glass shelves and check for evenness
- For multiple units, secure the connection between the cabinet frames and finally
- Always secure to the wall, especially for open units
Common pitfalls: brackets not fully snapping into place, or glass shelves with corners rubbing against the frame. It’s better to double-check several times.
Oh, and regarding the combination selection: I think a width of 60 cm (24 inches) and a height of 64 cm (25 inches) for the main module combined with narrower 20 or 40 cm (8 or 16 inches) elements looks very stylish – it adds dynamics to the overall appearance. The glass shelves look especially nice when they don’t extend all the way to the edge, leaving enough space around them.
Also, a bit of freshness in the look doesn’t hurt – for example, with small green plants on the glass shelves. It brings the Besta combination to life while also providing space for your favorite decorations.
Also, a bit of freshness in the look doesn’t hurt – for example, with small green plants on the glass shelves. It brings the Besta combination to life while also providing space for your favorite decorations.
Jamaalpe schrieb:
Also, how about installation if, for example, I build a combination of different heights one after another? Has it proven better to have several people or can it be done alone?It can basically be done alone, but it’s more fiddly. Having two people provides more safety and less frustration, especially when fitting the glass shelves at different heights.
An addition regarding stability: Glass shelves alone are not strong enough for larger spans. If the shelves will cover longer distances, using additional central supports or small braces within the cabinet can be very helpful. Proper alignment of the supports is important – unevenly mounted glass can create stress. It is advisable to set the heights precisely in advance using a measuring tape and a level.
Who says Besta has to be just rectangular? I once installed glass shelves diagonally – it looks really cool. Just make sure the brackets can support the weight, but Besta is more flexible than you might think. If you want to do something a little different, it’s worth taking the risk for some small experiments. And in my opinion, glass shelves with indirect lighting are a subtle highlight! ✨
Great, many thanks to everyone for your tips, details, and advice! I will save the step-by-step guide as a checklist. The comments on stability and caution regarding stress in the glass also highlighted new aspects for me.
One last question for the group: Are there any special care instructions or tips to keep the glass shelves in good condition over time, especially concerning scratches and dirt? I am particularly interested in whether there are any specific cleaning products that should definitely be avoided.
One last question for the group: Are there any special care instructions or tips to keep the glass shelves in good condition over time, especially concerning scratches and dirt? I am particularly interested in whether there are any specific cleaning products that should definitely be avoided.
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