Hello everyone, I am currently considering using the IKEA Kallax for storage in my attic and I’m wondering if this is actually a good and practical solution. The attic is not fully finished, more like a utility space with some dust, occasional moisture, and of course temperature fluctuations. My idea is to use the Kallax shelves because of their adjustable compartments and sturdy construction to organize and store items such as tools, boxes, or old books. I’m interested to know if anyone has experience with Kallax in attics, especially regarding durability under these conditions and stability on possibly uneven floors. Thanks in advance for your opinions!
NOAHSAU schrieb:
Why not use sturdy old wooden shelves or metal?That’s a good point. For attics, I actually recommend solid wood or metal shelves, as they are more resistant to moisture and temperature fluctuations. Kallax is more suitable for climate-controlled indoor spaces. Alternatively, you can use Kallax there if it is well protected, but that requires efforts that are often underestimated.
Additionally, I would say that the type of stored items should also be considered. For lightweight objects and boxes, Kallax is acceptable, but for heavy tools or large loads, the load-bearing capacity is limited. Moisture and temperature fluctuations accelerate material fatigue.
Jeanbar schrieb:
Kallax shelves are made of particleboard with a melamine coating, which does not handle moisture very well. Thank you, Jeanbar. I was aware of the melamine coating, but I didn’t realize how much it suffers from temperature fluctuations. Is it possible to apply a protective varnish or oil to keep moisture out? Or would that affect the stability or adhesive bonding?
One more question: How high can you safely stack Kallax shelves without the material sagging?
Hello Jara52,
Regarding protective coatings: With melamine surfaces, this is challenging because the surface does not absorb paints or oils as well as solid wood, for example. An additional coating could peel off or become uneven, which would likely worsen the appearance and surface quality.
As an alternative, you could carefully cover all shelf parts with foil or a waterproof protective layer, although this requires extra effort. If you plan to place the shelf in a high-humidity area, permanent climate control or dehumidification would be beneficial.
Concerning stacking height – if you stack Kallax shelves on top of each other: I do not recommend exceeding two shelves in height, as stability decreases quickly otherwise. Always securely fasten the top unit to the wall for safety.
Regarding protective coatings: With melamine surfaces, this is challenging because the surface does not absorb paints or oils as well as solid wood, for example. An additional coating could peel off or become uneven, which would likely worsen the appearance and surface quality.
As an alternative, you could carefully cover all shelf parts with foil or a waterproof protective layer, although this requires extra effort. If you plan to place the shelf in a high-humidity area, permanent climate control or dehumidification would be beneficial.
Concerning stacking height – if you stack Kallax shelves on top of each other: I do not recommend exceeding two shelves in height, as stability decreases quickly otherwise. Always securely fasten the top unit to the wall for safety.
R
reoWilhelm18 May 2019 11:00Jara52 schrieb:
Is it possible to apply a protective varnish or oil to prevent moisture?If a bit of DIY is an option, try using waterproof protective films or small silicone pads under the feet to prevent direct contact with ground moisture. 🙂 That at least protects against standing water!
And: Don’t forget the sealed boxes—they protect the inside and also look neat!
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