ᐅ KALLAX and Laminate Flooring: Should You Place It Underneath or Directly On Top?
Created on: 29 Nov 2021 19:03
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dahirfra
Hello everyone,
I am planning to place a KALLAX shelf unit from IKEA on my laminate floor and wonder if it makes sense to put something underneath the shelf before setting it down, such as felt pads or a thin mat, to protect the floor and prevent pressure marks. Or is it completely fine to place the KALLAX directly on the laminate?
I am also curious whether the shelf stands securely on uneven laminate surfaces, or if it is necessary to put something underneath to ensure stability.
Do you have any experience or recommendations regarding this? I am especially interested in how this affects the durability of both the laminate flooring and the furniture. Thanks in advance for your advice!
I am planning to place a KALLAX shelf unit from IKEA on my laminate floor and wonder if it makes sense to put something underneath the shelf before setting it down, such as felt pads or a thin mat, to protect the floor and prevent pressure marks. Or is it completely fine to place the KALLAX directly on the laminate?
I am also curious whether the shelf stands securely on uneven laminate surfaces, or if it is necessary to put something underneath to ensure stability.
Do you have any experience or recommendations regarding this? I am especially interested in how this affects the durability of both the laminate flooring and the furniture. Thanks in advance for your advice!
dahirfra schrieb:
whether it makes sense to place something under the shelf before setting it on the laminate flooring, for example felt pads or a thin mat That’s exactly how I would do it. Felt pads are inexpensive and help prevent pressure marks.
dahirfra schrieb:
or is it completely unproblematic to place the KALLAX directly on the laminate? It can cause issues, especially if you move the shelf or apply point loads.
dahirfra schrieb:
whether the shelf will stand firmly on uneven laminate surfaces, or if something should definitely be placed underneath Placing something underneath, like small wooden wedges or rubber buffers, is the solution here.
I would like to briefly share my experience: I initially placed the KALLAX directly on laminate flooring – this worked well for about a year. However, when I had to move the furniture, I noticed that tiny dust particles had slid underneath the shelf and caused very small scratches when shifting it.
Since then, I have been using felt pads underneath and make sure the area stays clean. This protects the floor and also gives me peace of mind because the shelf now basically "floats" and moves more easily.
I also understand the opposing view that certain underlays might affect stability, especially on uneven floors. Therefore, my recommendation is to level out any irregularities first, and then use an underlay.
Since then, I have been using felt pads underneath and make sure the area stays clean. This protects the floor and also gives me peace of mind because the shelf now basically "floats" and moves more easily.
I also understand the opposing view that certain underlays might affect stability, especially on uneven floors. Therefore, my recommendation is to level out any irregularities first, and then use an underlay.
Instructions for Laminate Flooring and Furniture Pads:
1. Thoroughly clean the floor before setting up furniture.
2. Use self-adhesive felt pads under each shelf leg.
3. Check the flatness of the floor; level uneven areas with small shims.
4. Regularly check for dirt accumulation under the pads.
This helps prevent scratches and pressure marks over time.
If the KALLAX is quite heavy, I recommend higher-quality felt pads that wear out less quickly.
1. Thoroughly clean the floor before setting up furniture.
2. Use self-adhesive felt pads under each shelf leg.
3. Check the flatness of the floor; level uneven areas with small shims.
4. Regularly check for dirt accumulation under the pads.
This helps prevent scratches and pressure marks over time.
If the KALLAX is quite heavy, I recommend higher-quality felt pads that wear out less quickly.
I place my KALLAX directly on the laminate floor without any issues. As long as the floor is level and not subject to much movement, it’s not a problem.
Important: Make sure no moisture gets underneath the shelf, otherwise the laminate will swell. Felt pads are a good protective measure if you want to be cautious.
Important: Make sure no moisture gets underneath the shelf, otherwise the laminate will swell. Felt pads are a good protective measure if you want to be cautious.
Joshbe schrieb:
Felt pads ensure more even pressure distribution and at the same time protect against small movements or abrasion.Thank you for this very helpful explanation.
I have an additional question: Are there quality differences in felt pads that significantly affect their lifespan or the protection of laminate flooring? Is it better to invest in more expensive felt pads?
taudi schrieb:
Regularly check for dirt buildup under the pads. That’s new to me. I will definitely plan for that. Thanks!
dahirfra schrieb:
Are there quality differences in felt pads that significantly affect their lifespan or the protection of laminate flooring? Is it better to invest in more expensive felt pads?Yes, there are differences in quality and durability among felt pads. Higher-quality products use denser and more abrasion-resistant felt material that doesn’t fray or detach as quickly. The adhesive can also vary, which impacts long-term adherence.
Overall, I recommend choosing branded products or those with good reviews, especially if the furniture is moved frequently. Cheap pads wear out quickly and offer less protection—meaning you’ll have to replace them more often, which can end up costing more and requiring more effort.
In conclusion, investing in good felt pads pays off for long-lasting protection.
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