ᐅ Which shelves are suitable replacements for Billy bookcases?

Created on: 13 Mar 2016 09:12
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Prestonlu
Hello everyone, I have several Billy shelves with shelves that are now damaged or missing. Since I no longer want to order original replacement parts from Ikea, my question is: Which shelves fit as replacements for Billy shelves, especially from other manufacturers or even from hardware stores? I am looking for shelves with the right dimensions, material thicknesses, and load capacities so that they are stable and fit well into the existing holes. Are there any experiences, tips, or recommendations for alternatives that can be used without any concerns? It is also important to me that the shelves are not too thick so that the doors of the Billy shelves still fit properly. Has anyone installed replacement shelves before and can offer recommendations?
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ANFIKE
14 Mar 2016 09:24
Prestonlu schrieb:
Which replacement shelves fit in Billy bookcases, especially from other manufacturers or even from hardware stores?

You should carefully measure the original Billy shelves. The standard depths are 28 or 40 cm (11 or 16 inches), width varies, usually 80 cm or 60 cm (31 or 24 inches). Thickness is about 1.8 cm (0.7 inches). Shelving boards from hardware stores can work but will require drilling holes for the supports.
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popodi
14 Mar 2016 11:44
Hello! I like the idea of installing my own flooring instead of just waiting for Ikea to restock. 🙂 From my experience, using the right drill bit for the fasteners and a drilling template works really well. MDF in 18 mm (0.7 inches), cut to 40x80 cm (16x31.5 inches), holds up great and looks good. Important: treat the edges, otherwise it won’t look nice for long once moisture gets in.
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taMoniqu68
15 Mar 2016 07:12
dopite schrieb:
Drilling: Those who don’t want to drill will rarely find a ready-made alternative.

I completely agree. Without adjustments, nothing will work.
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dopite
15 Mar 2016 08:03
One last tip regarding replacement shelves: If you use shelves with a different material thickness, check whether the standard shelf supports still fit. If necessary, new supports or brackets may need to be sourced.

Summary: Check measurements, select material, cut to size, mark holes with a drilling template, protect the surface.
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dusujan
15 Mar 2016 10:07
Thank you all for the help – it’s reassuring to know that making replacement shelves yourself isn’t rocket science. You just need to measure carefully and take your time. And as Teonon said, nice metal brackets almost turn the shelf into a designer piece! 🙂