E
ezekielje22 May 2016 18:07Hello everyone,
I recently installed the handle strips myself on my IKEA KALLAX shelving unit because I found the original handles too expensive and not visually appealing. However, the strip does not hold very well; it comes loose again after a short time, even though I attached it with double-sided tape and small screws.
Does anyone have tips on how to mount the handle strip more securely? Are there special adhesives or other installation methods that last longer and fix the strip firmly without damaging the wood of the shelving unit?
I would prefer not to invest in a more expensive option again, as I am otherwise very happy with the KALLAX and want to keep the design consistent. Any experience or ideas would be very helpful.
I recently installed the handle strips myself on my IKEA KALLAX shelving unit because I found the original handles too expensive and not visually appealing. However, the strip does not hold very well; it comes loose again after a short time, even though I attached it with double-sided tape and small screws.
Does anyone have tips on how to mount the handle strip more securely? Are there special adhesives or other installation methods that last longer and fix the strip firmly without damaging the wood of the shelving unit?
I would prefer not to invest in a more expensive option again, as I am otherwise very happy with the KALLAX and want to keep the design consistent. Any experience or ideas would be very helpful.
ezekielje schrieb:
the handle strip isn’t really good, it comes loose again after a short timeOh, I know that problem all too well! 😄 You want everything to hold firm, and then suddenly the strip is hanging crooked – really frustrating!
I would definitely recommend using strong adhesives (e.g., PU glue), because double-sided tape often fails, especially if the surfaces aren’t perfectly clean or the wood is slightly absorbent. Screws are also a good option, just make sure to screw them in from the back so nothing shows on the front.
Maybe lightly sand the bonding area first and clean it with alcohol. That usually helps the adhesive stick better. And hey, a bit of patience while drying also makes a difference. 😉
Looking forward to hearing what the pros here suggest!
Hello,
I recommend first checking the exact material you are attaching the handle strip to. KALLAX is made of particleboard with a melamine resin coating, which creates a smooth surface that can sometimes be too non-porous for adhesives.
When installing with adhesives, the surface should be prepared as well as possible: lightly sand with fine-grit sandpaper (e.g., grit 220), then remove grease and dust using rubbing alcohol or a similar solvent.
For adhesive, you can use a polyurethane-based construction adhesive, which bonds very strongly and remains slightly flexible, helping to absorb stress.
If using screws, make sure to pre-drill thin pilot holes to avoid splitting the material. It might also be possible to use small dowels to better distribute the force.
Several small steps ensure a clean and stable installation. Good luck!
I recommend first checking the exact material you are attaching the handle strip to. KALLAX is made of particleboard with a melamine resin coating, which creates a smooth surface that can sometimes be too non-porous for adhesives.
When installing with adhesives, the surface should be prepared as well as possible: lightly sand with fine-grit sandpaper (e.g., grit 220), then remove grease and dust using rubbing alcohol or a similar solvent.
For adhesive, you can use a polyurethane-based construction adhesive, which bonds very strongly and remains slightly flexible, helping to absorb stress.
If using screws, make sure to pre-drill thin pilot holes to avoid splitting the material. It might also be possible to use small dowels to better distribute the force.
Several small steps ensure a clean and stable installation. Good luck!
lochen schrieb:
Assembly adhesive based on polyurethaneThat’s exactly the right tip. Use PU adhesive, sand well, nothing else.
barge schrieb:
Screws on the back sideDo it exactly like that, you won’t see anything and it holds better.
ezekielje schrieb:
Are there perhaps special adhesives or other installation methods that last longer?Well, besides polyurethane (PU) adhesive, I can also recommend 3M mounting tape, especially the "VHB" tape (Very High Bond). I used it for a similar application, and it holds really strong, even on smooth surfaces.
Just make sure to clean the surfaces thoroughly, preferably dust them off and lightly abrade them beforehand. The tape isn’t exactly cheap, but if it holds up, it’s worth it.
If screws seem too complicated or impractical for you, this might be a good alternative.
Good luck, and feel free to share how it goes! 🙂
Similar topics