ᐅ Kallax Shelf Near Balcony Door – Issues with Temperature Fluctuations?

Created on: 28 Aug 2023 09:17
R
Remingtonk
Hello everyone,

I am planning to place my Kallax shelving unit near the balcony door. However, I am unsure if this location is practical because I worry that the constant temperature changes caused by the door (cold drafts in winter, strong sunlight in summer) could damage the unit over time.

Specifically, I am concerned that due to humidity, temperature fluctuations, and air circulation, the material might warp, and the items stored on it (e.g., books, folders) could also be harmed.

Has anyone had similar experiences or can offer advice on whether and how to use the Kallax there effectively without risking damage to the unit or its contents? I am especially interested in long-term observations and concrete tips on care or preventing damage.

Thank you in advance!
R
RENMA
28 Aug 2023 15:28
Remingtonk schrieb:
Are there any practical experience-based thresholds for temperature or humidity fluctuations where engineered wood materials really start to suffer?

The general guideline for engineered wood materials is:

- Relative humidity (RH) should ideally be maintained between 40% and 60%.
- Fluctuations greater than 20% over short periods (e.g., from 40% to 60% and back within one day) can already cause internal stresses in the material.

Temperature variations exceeding 10°C (18°F) within short periods can also be problematic, especially when combined with significant changes in humidity.

Kallax materials have a coated surface, but the particleboard core remains vulnerable, which can lead to delamination or warping.

In short: stable environmental conditions are crucial, and large or rapid changes in temperature and humidity should be avoided.
J
JORDON
28 Aug 2023 16:13
Hey Remingtonk,

I once had my Kallax placed near the balcony door – what can I say: It was nice to step outside for some fresh air right away, but unfortunately, the draft was a real problem for the shelf 🙂

My books became wavy at the edges, and the shelf soon wasn’t completely stable anymore. It was a bit like having a “Kallax roller coaster” in the living room.

I simply put a nice partition in between and moved the shelf a few centimeters (inches) away – the problem was gone in no time.

My advice: It’s better to keep some distance and maybe create a DIY draft guard if space is tight. That way, your shelf stays in good shape and happy! 🙂
G
Goixkin
29 Aug 2023 08:55
RENMA schrieb:
Move the shelf at least 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) away from the door.

This is usually enough to prevent drafts.

Also, I wouldn’t store heavy or delicate items there.

Regularly measure the humidity to detect any damage early.
J
Jesus9
29 Aug 2023 10:41
nedagla schrieb:
my books and folders there absorbed some moisture.

That sounds really frustrating – I can fully understand how upsetting it is when favorite books get damaged.

Maybe you could use a small hygrometer in the shelf to monitor humidity and catch any moisture early.

And never forget: sometimes the best advice is simply to place the shelf a little away from the door, even if space is tight. The health and longevity of your items are what really matter.

I hope you find a good solution and enjoy your shelf for a long time! 🙂