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!
gunuko schrieb:
Wipe shelves regularly with a damp cloth to detect mold growthRegular wiping with a lot of moisture is counterproductive in a damp room. It encourages moisture buildup and can promote mold growth.
For inspections, surfaces should be cleaned with a dry cloth or a microfiber cleaning cloth. If visible mold appears, the use of fungicidal treatments is essential.
One more tip: use a hygrometer and measure humidity in several areas of the room to determine the actual moisture level and adjust measures accordingly.
I think you have explained the problem very clearly, gunuko. That is why I would recommend focusing first on identifying the source of the moisture. Using only sealants and dehumidifiers might delay the damage, but will not prevent it permanently.
In the meantime: small steps like promoting air circulation, protecting shelves at the corners, and regularly checking as FLONE41 suggests are sensible.
Siflo schrieb:is also very important in this context. It might also be worthwhile to get advice from a professional if this issue keeps recurring.
checking structural measures
In the meantime: small steps like promoting air circulation, protecting shelves at the corners, and regularly checking as FLONE41 suggests are sensible.
One small tip from me: In my damp garage, I placed foam rubber pads under the shelves to avoid direct contact with the concrete. You can do the same with KALLAX units to protect against cold and moisture from the floor.
And if you’re considering a sealant, I prefer water-based products – they don’t have a strong odor and are more environmentally friendly than solvent-based coatings 🙂
And if you’re considering a sealant, I prefer water-based products – they don’t have a strong odor and are more environmentally friendly than solvent-based coatings 🙂
When it comes to moisture in the storage room, I always thought: "Better to approach it with a sense of humor!" 😉
Seriously: I would prioritize the combination of a dehumidifier, improved ventilation, and protective measures on the shelving. It's better to check things one more time before you end up with mold and need to do rework.
And if you ever decide to use metal shelves – those are so low-maintenance, you can hardly go wrong.
Good luck with the solution!
Seriously: I would prioritize the combination of a dehumidifier, improved ventilation, and protective measures on the shelving. It's better to check things one more time before you end up with mold and need to do rework.
And if you ever decide to use metal shelves – those are so low-maintenance, you can hardly go wrong.
Good luck with the solution!
Similar topics