ᐅ KALLAX rattles after opening the window – how to secure it?

Created on: 25 Mar 2021 09:17
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genobo
Hello everyone, I have the following problem: My IKEA KALLAX shelf rattles every time I open or close the window next to it. It seems that the movement of the window sash causes small vibrations that make the shelf rattle. The noise mainly comes from the compartments with the shelves – these seem to move slightly, even though they should be firmly in place. My question is: What is the best way to fix or dampen the KALLAX shelf to eliminate the rattling? Are there any special tips to stabilize the shelf or prevent the shelves from moving? I would appreciate any ideas, even simple solutions like sealing tape or other aids.
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BeAndrea
25 Mar 2021 17:23
TEBILO schrieb:
I recommend using special metal angle brackets for this

That sounds great, TEBILO. Just as an additional tip: make sure that self-drilling screws are not too thick. Otherwise, the side panels of the KALLAX can easily split. It’s usually advisable to pre-drill when working with wood.

Also, you should carefully align the shelf before securing it (possibly support it with wedges) so that the screws do not put pressure on the shelves. This will also help prevent the shelf from rattling due to lateral deformation.
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marmar50
26 Mar 2021 08:33
To secure the shelf, I attached foam strips between the back panel and the wall. This acts as a buffer.

Additionally, I fitted the door facing the window with soft magnetic dampers – this makes opening smoother and the shelf hardly moves anymore.
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Joshbe
26 Mar 2021 10:46
The cause of the rattling is usually the resonance of the loose shelves. Since KALLAX shelves do not have screwed-in shelves, they tend to shift or vibrate slightly.

A practical solution is to use self-adhesive cushioning pads between the shelf and the inner sides of the unit. Alternatively, you can cut foam strips to the exact cross-section and wedge them between the shelf and the side panels.

Attaching the unit to the wall with furniture brackets provides additional stability but is less effective against the vibrations of the shelves than direct cushioning between the shelf and the unit.

I would first remove the dampers and then consider wall mounting if there is still movement.
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genobo
26 Mar 2021 12:07
Thanks for all the suggestions, especially the idea of using angle brackets for the furniture—I really like that.

One more technical question: When screwing into the wall, is it better to use multiple small points (meaning several small screws), or is one screw at the top of the shelf enough?

I'm concerned that if there is only one attachment point, the shelf might swing on the other side.
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DULIS
26 Mar 2021 13:18
Multiple fixing points distribute the load more evenly and prevent movement more effectively. Usually, a single screw is not sufficient.
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dosogau
26 Mar 2021 14:24
For longer shelves, it is better to use two or three screws. This increases stability and helps reduce rattling.