ᐅ What DIY reinforcements are available for IKEA BESTA shelves?

Created on: 13 Jul 2020 08:23
R
renben
Hello everyone, I am currently planning to modify my IKEA Besta cabinets and have one main question: What DIY reinforcements for the shelves of the BESTA series have you tried or can you recommend?

I am interested in sturdy solutions that are relatively easy to implement and help increase the load capacity of the shelves, as I plan to store heavy items on them. Specifically, this concerns the individual particleboard shelves, which are known to have limited load-bearing capacity.

Maybe someone has tips on additional bracing, materials, or even custom builds that work well? Thanks in advance!
G
Guyju
14 Jul 2020 08:03
Rashadmeo schrieb:
Hey, I had exactly the same problem! My solution was to glue small wooden blocks under the floors and then secure them from below with a second board. That provides real stability! Give it a try, it’s a lot of fun!

That is indeed a very good idea because it optimally distributes the load. However, make sure that the glued joints are strong and that the blocks are well positioned so they don’t slip.

Additionally, I recommend not to overlook the screws for bending stiffness; combined, this provides the best stability.
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GiRoyce
14 Jul 2020 10:19
What is often underestimated: The choice of screws and anchors is important! Some screws are too short or too thin, which hardly provides any stabilization.

My tip: Use screws with a Phillips head, 4 mm diameter and at least 30-40 mm (1.2-1.6 inches) in length when attaching moldings under the floors. Also, don’t forget to pre-drill, as this prevents cracking.

Additionally, you can use wood glue at the contact points to make the connection even more durable.
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lubla
15 Jul 2020 11:55
A very simple reinforcement: You can also use standard metal CD shelf brackets and screw them into the side of the cabinet to provide additional support for the shelves. They are inexpensive, sturdy, and can be installed quickly.
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Luke44
15 Jul 2020 13:40
As a supplement: Reinforcement with cross battens is standard. For greater stability, the shelves should not only be fixed at the front edge but also supported in the middle, for example by a batten or blocks underneath the shelf.
R
renben
16 Jul 2020 09:28
Guyju schrieb:
- Drill these battens into the underside of the chipboard floors, preferably centered and lengthwise, to reduce sagging.

Thank you very much for this detailed description! I have one more question: How can I prevent the screw heads or battens from affecting the surface appearance of the floors? I would like reinforcements that are as invisible or at least unobtrusive as possible. Does anyone have ideas or experience with this?

And another question: How durable are these reinforcements over several years? Does the floor still warp or deform under load despite the reinforcement?