ᐅ KALLAX in the storage room – problems with persistent moisture?
Created on: 19 Oct 2022 08:22
G
gunuko
Hello everyone,
I have an IKEA KALLAX shelving unit in my storage room for storage purposes. Unfortunately, I have noticed that the room is quite damp—there is noticeably increased humidity, especially in winter, probably due to poor ventilation and a damp wall. The problem is that the KALLAX shelves are made from wood-based panels, and I’m concerned that the constant moisture could cause the shelves to swell or even develop mold.
Does anyone have experience using KALLAX in such a damp environment? What precautions can be taken to prevent damage? Would special waterproofing treatments be advisable, or is it better to choose a different material?
I look forward to your advice and experiences!
I have an IKEA KALLAX shelving unit in my storage room for storage purposes. Unfortunately, I have noticed that the room is quite damp—there is noticeably increased humidity, especially in winter, probably due to poor ventilation and a damp wall. The problem is that the KALLAX shelves are made from wood-based panels, and I’m concerned that the constant moisture could cause the shelves to swell or even develop mold.
Does anyone have experience using KALLAX in such a damp environment? What precautions can be taken to prevent damage? Would special waterproofing treatments be advisable, or is it better to choose a different material?
I look forward to your advice and experiences!
Hey, I once had KALLAX stored in an unheated basement – you wouldn’t believe how quickly the material warps when it gets damp. My advice: a dehumidifier is your best friend, and if you turn on a small warm fan heater occasionally, the air dries out faster.
And yes, water-repellent treatments can help, but I never really tried them because I usually think, “Just keep that old furniture away from damp rooms!”
Also, check if you can find shelving units with metal frames; they can be both stylish and practical.
And yes, water-repellent treatments can help, but I never really tried them because I usually think, “Just keep that old furniture away from damp rooms!”
Also, check if you can find shelving units with metal frames; they can be both stylish and practical.
I completely understand how frustrating it must be to have a piece of furniture that fits almost perfectly, but the room layout makes it difficult to place.
Perhaps it would help not to place the shelf directly against the wall. Small steps like using wood oil or wax initially can provide at least some extra protection. For existing moisture, an electric dehumidifier works very well.
Please keep us updated if things improve for you or if you find alternative solutions!
Perhaps it would help not to place the shelf directly against the wall. Small steps like using wood oil or wax initially can provide at least some extra protection. For existing moisture, an electric dehumidifier works very well.
Please keep us updated if things improve for you or if you find alternative solutions!
To add: In permanently damp rooms, we must always consider that moisture can come not only from the air but also from external sources through capillary rising damp.
If the storage room has a cold exterior wall and moisture primarily enters through it, waterproofing treatments are rarely effective in the long term. In such cases, structural measures should be considered to minimize the source of moisture.
Metal shelves with plastic coatings are much more durable in such environments. Other alternatives include shelves made of stainless steel or powder-coated aluminum profiles.
If the storage room has a cold exterior wall and moisture primarily enters through it, waterproofing treatments are rarely effective in the long term. In such cases, structural measures should be considered to minimize the source of moisture.
Metal shelves with plastic coatings are much more durable in such environments. Other alternatives include shelves made of stainless steel or powder-coated aluminum profiles.
BOLUKEO schrieb:
Otherwise, metal shelving would be better. That would also be something I would consider if the problem cannot be resolved.
Siflo schrieb:
Moisture not only from the air but also from outside due to capillary rising damp That could definitely be the case. The wall is partially uninsulated, old building structure.
I will probably need to check structural measures before buying new furniture. Thanks for the hint!
One more thing I'm wondering about: If I keep the KALLAX shelf for now, is it advisable to wipe it regularly with a damp cloth to detect mold formation early? Or could that increase the moisture?
gunuko schrieb:
Wipe regularly with a damp cloth to detect mold formation early?I would be cautious with that. While moisture on the surface can help remove dust and dirt temporarily, if the room is already humid, using wet cloths and not drying perfectly can be risky.
It’s better to use a dry or only slightly damp cloth to just remove dust and check the surface. And if you notice any mold issues, act quickly – use mold-inhibiting cleaners or targeted treatment.
Also, emptying the shelf completely and airing it out more often helps.
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