ᐅ Kallax completely disassembled and reassembled – all screws are loose now, how to fix?

Hello everyone,

I recently rebuilt my Kallax shelf completely because I rearranged and expanded it. I noticed that after assembly, almost all the screws—especially the larger connecting screws and the small nails—are loose, even though I tightened them properly during assembly. The shelf wobbles a bit and feels generally less stable than before.

My question is: What is the best way to secure all screws and connections so that the Kallax remains permanently stable after rebuilding and doesn’t become loose again? Are there any special tools or tricks to prevent loosening sustainably without damaging or losing the original parts? I want to avoid having to take everything apart and reassemble it all over again.

Thanks a lot for your advice!

Hey loluigi,

It's great that you modified the shelf! 😄 For loose screws, it often helps to use thread locker (Loctite or similar products). Just apply a little and tighten the screw properly. That holds really well! 🙂

Alternatively, you can also use small washers to make the connection more stable.

Keep it up, your Kallax will feel very sturdy soon!

Screws often loosen due to being tightened too loosely. Consider using threadlocker. Alternatively, apply wood glue at the joints before screwing them together. This will make the connection firmer.

There are several reliable methods to secure the screws in Kallax shelves after assembly:

1. Use thread-locking adhesive (e.g., medium-strength threadlocker, Loctite 243) – this prevents loosening due to vibrations or load.
2. For wood joints, you can also apply wood glue at the connection points, especially for slotted screws or dowels.
3. Use small washers inside the fittings to increase the bearing surface and improve grip.
4. Tighten all screws with the appropriate torque to avoid damaging the material while ensuring a secure fit.

It is generally recommended to check the shelf again after one week and retighten screws if necessary, as wood tends to expand and contract.

Avoid using aggressive locking compounds to facilitate easier disassembly later on.

retau schrieb:
For loose screws, it often helps to use threadlocker (Loctite or similar products).

Thanks for the tip, that sounds like a good idea! However, I’m unsure whether I should treat all the screws with it or just the large connecting bolts?

RETRAVIS schrieb:
For wooden joints, you can also apply wood glue in the connection points, especially when it involves slotted screws or dowels.

Here’s my concern: I want to be able to reassemble the shelf occasionally. In that case, is wood glue advisable or more problematic because of potential disassembly later on?

Does anyone have practical experience with threadlocker and wood glue when working with Kallax? I really want to secure only the parts where it’s necessary, without creating more problems in the end.

Hello,

regarding your questions: I would recommend using threadlocker only on metal connection screws, especially if you don’t plan to disassemble the shelf frequently or quickly. A medium-strength threadlocker, such as Loctite 243, works well; it holds securely but can be loosened with some heat if needed.

Wood glue, on the other hand, is not advisable for wooden joints if you plan to reassemble often. Although it provides increased strength, the glue cures very hard and makes disassembly difficult, which is particularly undesirable for flat-pack furniture like IKEA.

When tightening screws, be careful not to apply too much force to avoid damaging the material. If you are using through-screws or dowels, consider adding small washers to improve grip.

It’s best to manually retighten the screws after a few weeks, as wood and metal can loosen slightly due to temperature changes and stress.

This way, you can keep the shelf stable without causing irreversible changes.