ᐅ Which screws are better than the standard fasteners for BILLY?

Created on: 4 Apr 2018 08:12
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enno55
Hello everyone, I’m currently planning to assemble a new Billy shelf and was wondering which screws are actually better than the standard fasteners provided by IKEA. The original screws are usually simple chipboard screws, which I personally don’t find ideal in terms of durability and load capacity.

I’m especially interested in whether there are screws that are better suited for the engineered wood materials used in Billy shelves – specifically, the best combination of material, length, and thread type. I would also appreciate advice regarding strength and load-bearing capacity! Who has experience with effective and long-lasting alternatives?
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Tause
5 Apr 2018 09:15
I stand by my statement: There are many good screws, but without considering the material of the chipboard, no general recommendation can be given.

Some cheap replacement screws often have poor alloys and cause corrosion, which weakens the structure in the long term.

So, if you want something durable, you should pay attention to the quality of the material in addition to using Spax or Torx screws.
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PRAPI
5 Apr 2018 10:30
Tause schrieb:
So if you want something that lasts longer, you should pay attention to the quality of the material as well as using Spax or Torx screws.

Exactly. Rust protection is especially important in more humid environments, even if Billy-type furniture is mostly kept indoors.

Stainless steel A2 or galvanized screws with Torx drive are good options. For most applications, galvanized screws are more than sufficient.
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NoValentin
5 Apr 2018 11:02
Stainless steel only when moisture is expected. Otherwise, use galvanized steel and Torx screws.
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enno55
5 Apr 2018 12:10
PRAPI schrieb:
Stainless steel A2 or galvanized screws with Torx are good solutions

Great, thanks to everyone so far. I will probably go with galvanized Spax Torx 4x40 mm (1/8 x 1 5/8 inches) screws and pre-drill with a 2.8 mm (0.11 inch) drill bit.

Is there anything else I should pay attention to when it comes to the screws during assembly? Or any general tips to improve the BILLY shelf besides changing the screws?
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Issac_kla2
5 Apr 2018 12:45
enno55 schrieb:
Is there anything else I should pay attention to during the installation?

Yes, make sure the screws are evenly distributed. Don’t place all the screws only along the edges; fix the shelf so that the load is spread evenly.

Also, I recommend securing the shelves to the wall with brackets, especially if you plan to store heavy items. Screws alone often don’t provide enough stability.
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tabau70
6 Apr 2018 08:20
One last tip: If you want to perfect the screws, use countersunk screws so they sit flush with the wood and pose no risk of injury. 🙂

And proper tools! A good cordless drill bit set with Torx attachments makes life much easier!