Hello everyone, I am planning to get a KALLAX shelving system from IKEA and am considering whether I can use it in the garden as well. My main question is: Does the KALLAX warp when exposed to rain or high humidity if left outside without protection?
I know the material is actually intended for indoor use, but has anyone had experience with how stable the shelf remains in wet conditions? I am especially interested in information about deformation, swelling of the material, and durability under such circumstances. Thanks in advance!
I know the material is actually intended for indoor use, but has anyone had experience with how stable the shelf remains in wet conditions? I am especially interested in information about deformation, swelling of the material, and durability under such circumstances. Thanks in advance!
I would like to explain in more detail the long-term effects of moisture on KALLAX modules.
The panel coating mainly protects against short-term moisture exposure. With regular or prolonged contact with water from rain, the core material absorbs moisture, which can lead to a volume increase of around 10–15%. This swelling causes stress across the surface, especially at the edges, which are unprotected.
These stresses lead to warping, delamination of the coating, and ultimately irreversible damage. Even the application of protective coatings only slows down this process but does not eliminate it completely.
Therefore, the use of KALLAX outdoors is only recommended under very sheltered conditions and with consistent maintenance.
What is the humidity level at your intended location? Will the shelf be directly exposed to rain, or will it be placed under a roof?
The panel coating mainly protects against short-term moisture exposure. With regular or prolonged contact with water from rain, the core material absorbs moisture, which can lead to a volume increase of around 10–15%. This swelling causes stress across the surface, especially at the edges, which are unprotected.
These stresses lead to warping, delamination of the coating, and ultimately irreversible damage. Even the application of protective coatings only slows down this process but does not eliminate it completely.
Therefore, the use of KALLAX outdoors is only recommended under very sheltered conditions and with consistent maintenance.
What is the humidity level at your intended location? Will the shelf be directly exposed to rain, or will it be placed under a roof?
reybo schrieb:
What is the humidity level at your intended location? And will the shelf be directly exposed to rain or is it placed under a roof?\Thank you for your detailed answer, reybo. The shelf would be on an open terrace that is covered overhead but open on the sides. So, direct rain can occasionally come in from the side, especially when it’s windy. The humidity in our garden usually ranges between 70–90 % during the wetter season.
I am also willing to treat the shelf and raise it on feet to minimize contact with the ground. Still, this seems to remain a challenge. Are there alternatives that look similar but are more weather-resistant?
Zarba36 schrieb:
I am also willing to treat the shelf and put it on legs so that it has as little contact with the floor as possible.Great attitude! 🙂
If it’s exposed to wind and sideways rain, sealing it definitely helps – I would recommend a flexible acrylic varnish. Also, regularly check the piece for any damage caused by wind. Imagine it aging over the years and the shelf lasting longer than you expect. Have fun with it!
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