ᐅ My KALLAX was installed on a screed floor – potential moisture issues?
Created on: 3 Jan 2023 08:37
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NonploHello everyone,
I recently installed an IKEA KALLAX shelving unit directly on a screed floor. Unfortunately, I am now concerned that this might cause moisture problems. Although the screed has fully cured, the room is an unheated basement that occasionally gets somewhat damp—even though there are no visible water puddles.
My specific question is: Can placing a KALLAX shelving unit directly on the screed floor cause damage due to rising or standing moisture? Are there any recommendations on how to best protect or position the shelving unit to prevent issues such as swelling, mold, or mildew?
I would greatly appreciate any experiences or advice, especially from anyone who has dealt with something similar or is familiar with such situations. Thanks in advance!
I recently installed an IKEA KALLAX shelving unit directly on a screed floor. Unfortunately, I am now concerned that this might cause moisture problems. Although the screed has fully cured, the room is an unheated basement that occasionally gets somewhat damp—even though there are no visible water puddles.
My specific question is: Can placing a KALLAX shelving unit directly on the screed floor cause damage due to rising or standing moisture? Are there any recommendations on how to best protect or position the shelving unit to prevent issues such as swelling, mold, or mildew?
I would greatly appreciate any experiences or advice, especially from anyone who has dealt with something similar or is familiar with such situations. Thanks in advance!
Hi Nonplo,
thanks for your detailed question! Unfortunately, I have experienced a similar issue in my basement with rising damp affecting the screed. It’s really annoying because the wood then warps or develops a musty smell.
From my own experience, I can say: definitely put something between the screed and the shelving. Even a thin rubber mat already prevents moisture from directly soaking into the wood. Maybe small feet or a wooden strip as a base could also help.
How is the basement ventilated? Regular ventilation also helps prevent moisture buildup.
Hope this helps you a bit for now! Fingers crossed your KALLAX lasts a long time.
thanks for your detailed question! Unfortunately, I have experienced a similar issue in my basement with rising damp affecting the screed. It’s really annoying because the wood then warps or develops a musty smell.
From my own experience, I can say: definitely put something between the screed and the shelving. Even a thin rubber mat already prevents moisture from directly soaking into the wood. Maybe small feet or a wooden strip as a base could also help.
How is the basement ventilated? Regular ventilation also helps prevent moisture buildup.
Hope this helps you a bit for now! Fingers crossed your KALLAX lasts a long time.
I understand you well, Nonplo; I am familiar with those kinds of uncertainties related to moisture problems.
As koduga already mentioned, a barrier between the screed and the piece of furniture is important to prevent moisture from rising.
In addition to the underlay, you should also make sure that your furniture feet do not seal completely, as this can cause moisture to accumulate underneath.
Maybe a moisture meter could also help you better assess the situation.
As koduga already mentioned, a barrier between the screed and the piece of furniture is important to prevent moisture from rising.
In addition to the underlay, you should also make sure that your furniture feet do not seal completely, as this can cause moisture to accumulate underneath.
Maybe a moisture meter could also help you better assess the situation.
Wow, great question, Nonplo!
I really appreciate that you are thinking about this before any problems even occur. 🙂
KALLAX is generally quite sturdy, but direct exposure to moisture can damage it. That’s why, as others have suggested, I would definitely recommend installing a moisture barrier.
I once had a similar situation and simply placed a thick plastic sheet under the shelf, which worked really well.
You can do this! I’m sure you’ll find a solution that keeps your KALLAX in good condition for a long time! 🙂
I really appreciate that you are thinking about this before any problems even occur. 🙂
KALLAX is generally quite sturdy, but direct exposure to moisture can damage it. That’s why, as others have suggested, I would definitely recommend installing a moisture barrier.
I once had a similar situation and simply placed a thick plastic sheet under the shelf, which worked really well.
You can do this! I’m sure you’ll find a solution that keeps your KALLAX in good condition for a long time! 🙂
Hello Nonplo,
your question addresses a key issue that is often underestimated. The screed floor, especially in unheated basements, transports moisture from the substrate upwards – even when it appears dry. This so-called capillary moisture can accumulate unnoticed, and furniture made of wood-based materials like KALLAX is particularly vulnerable to damage from swelling or mold.
I recommend the following approach:
1. Moisture measurement: Check the screed with a CM moisture meter or a hygrometer for the relative humidity in the room. Values above 2.0% CM in the screed are critical.
2. Create a base layer: You should definitely install a vapor-tight underlay – a PE sheet (polyethylene foil) or special insulation boards are ideal. These prevent moisture from rising directly into the wood.
3. Ventilation: Ensure good air circulation under and around the shelf. Small spacers (e.g., wooden strips or plastic spacers) help prevent trapped moisture.
4. Treatment: Alternatively or in addition, impregnating the cabinet can be advisable to make it more resistant to moisture.
What exactly is the situation on your side? Have you measured the screed, and how is the room ventilated?
Only then can an individual recommendation be made.
your question addresses a key issue that is often underestimated. The screed floor, especially in unheated basements, transports moisture from the substrate upwards – even when it appears dry. This so-called capillary moisture can accumulate unnoticed, and furniture made of wood-based materials like KALLAX is particularly vulnerable to damage from swelling or mold.
I recommend the following approach:
1. Moisture measurement: Check the screed with a CM moisture meter or a hygrometer for the relative humidity in the room. Values above 2.0% CM in the screed are critical.
2. Create a base layer: You should definitely install a vapor-tight underlay – a PE sheet (polyethylene foil) or special insulation boards are ideal. These prevent moisture from rising directly into the wood.
3. Ventilation: Ensure good air circulation under and around the shelf. Small spacers (e.g., wooden strips or plastic spacers) help prevent trapped moisture.
4. Treatment: Alternatively or in addition, impregnating the cabinet can be advisable to make it more resistant to moisture.
What exactly is the situation on your side? Have you measured the screed, and how is the room ventilated?
Only then can an individual recommendation be made.
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