ᐅ Which Billy shelves are designed to support heavy loads?

Created on: 5 Jan 2021 09:12
I
Ixne57
Hello everyone,

I am currently planning the layout for my storage area and intend to use IKEA Billy bookcases for this. Since I will be storing relatively heavy items there—mainly some technically heavy equipment and binders that weigh well over 20 kg (44 lbs) per shelf—I have the following question:

Which Billy bookcases are specifically designed for high load capacities, meaning which versions or modifications can support a lot of weight without losing stability?

If you have any experience with reinforcements or alternative shelves, I would also greatly appreciate hearing about that.

Thanks in advance!
L
liste
6 Jan 2021 09:18
NUPIN schrieb:
A little tip: Place thin wooden battens underneath heavy floors as additional support – this greatly improves load-bearing capacity!

This can work, but please be careful: A permanent load distribution should be done with screw-fixed reinforcements; otherwise, the material may warp or splinter over time.

Using wooden battens is a temporary solution and does not replace a proper structural design. I would recommend planning for individual reinforcements with metal profiles or brackets, especially for high loads.
J
JAPLO
6 Jan 2021 09:50
In summary, I recommend the following for heavy loads:

- Use metal shelves
- Ensure secure wall attachment
- Do not reduce or remove the back panel
- For very heavy loads: consider additional reinforcements and possibly floor support

If the weight becomes very large, a professional shelving system may be more suitable than Billy.
I
Ixne57
6 Jan 2021 10:19
JAPLO schrieb:
If the weight becomes very high, a professional shelving system might be more suitable than Billy.

Thank you for the honest assessment; that is very helpful. My load range is approximately 35-45 kg (77-99 lbs) per shelf, as it involves heavy equipment that is not extremely bulky.

I will probably go with the 80 cm (31.5 inches) Billy units with metal shelves and careful wall mounting, and I will follow the advice about using additional strips.

Thanks to everyone for the helpful information and tips!