ᐅ What should you do if the back panel of your KALLAX unit keeps peeling off?

Created on: 6 Apr 2021 09:42
G
Ge-ernst
Hello everyone,

I have the following problem: The back panel of my IKEA KALLAX shelf keeps coming off, meaning it chips at several spots or breaks out entirely. This happens even with normal use, without the shelf being overloaded or unstable.

I mainly use the shelf to store books and lighter items. The back panel is obviously made of a thin MDF or fiberboard sheet, which apparently does not hold up well.

My questions: What do you recommend if the back panel of a KALLAX keeps chipping? Are there effective repair methods or alternatives to permanently stabilize the shelf?

Thanks in advance for your tips!
B
Bagupo
6 Apr 2021 14:45
One more tip: Use an electric stapler with fine staples to temporarily attach the new back panel. This makes it easier to screw it in later and keeps the board evenly in place.
T
TEBILO
6 Apr 2021 15:21
renpeo schrieb:
Wood glue is generally good for photovoltaic systems, and for MDF and hardboard, D3 or D4 glue is also suitable.

Exactly. I recommend D3 glue for interior use, as it provides good water resistance and strong bonding. D4 is often intended for exterior applications or wet rooms.
reece70 schrieb:
Better to use self-drilling screws for particle boards.

Also advisable, but be cautious with very thin boards, as overly strong screws can cause the material to split. Pre-drilling with a small diameter remains a sensible approach.
G
Ge-ernst
7 Apr 2021 08:35
Thanks for all the tips so far!

One additional question: If I use a 4 mm (0.16 inches) plywood panel that I want to paint on the outside, will this have any negative effects if I install it as a back panel in a shelf? Should I be concerned about air circulation or moisture absorption?

I am wondering if such a painted panel could even improve stability, without compromising shelf insulation or other properties.
K
KIN42
7 Apr 2021 09:02
Ge-ernst schrieb:
If I use a 4 mm (0.16 inch) plywood sheet that I want to paint on the outside, will that have a negative effect if I install it as a back panel in a shelf?

A painted plywood panel is actually recommended because it protects against moisture absorption. It is important, however, to seal all sides, especially the cut edges, with paint.

Unpainted edges can absorb water and swell, which may cause problems.

Air circulation in the shelf is not significantly affected, as the back panel is almost completely closed anyway.
R
renpeo
7 Apr 2021 09:45
KIN42 schrieb:
However, it is important to seal all sides, especially the cut edges, with varnish.

This is a very important point. Edges, in particular, are sensitive in plywood and tend to absorb moisture more easily. Properly sealed edges greatly reduce the risk of swelling and delamination.
G
Ge-ernst
7 Apr 2021 10:02
Great, thanks everyone! I will get a 4 mm (0.16 inch) plywood board, finish all edges carefully with paint, and secure it with glue and pre-drilled screws.

If it happens again, I’ll report back with an update 🙂