ᐅ Which tools are best for assembling the Ikea PLATSA?

Created on: 27 Aug 2021 18:37
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Taufra
T
Taufra
27 Aug 2021 18:37
Hello everyone, I am planning to get an Ikea Platsa system and want to assemble it myself later. Since I have limited experience with furniture assembly, I’m wondering which tools are really necessary and helpful for the best results. Are there specific screwdrivers, drill bits, or other small tools that make the assembly significantly easier? And what aids can help with aligning and styling the modules after assembly? I prefer not to rely on improvisation and would rather have the right tools ready from the start. I look forward to your experiences and tips so I don’t have to waste time searching for tools during assembly.
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giabau
27 Aug 2021 19:21
For assembling the Ikea PLATSA system, I recommend a small set of tools that will make your work much easier:

- Cordless drill with a Phillips bit (PH2) for the supplied screws
- If needed, a small wooden mallet for gently tapping in the dowels
- Spirit level for precise alignment of the modules, especially important for wall installations
- Screwdriver for fine adjustments and correcting screw positions

It’s important not to set the cordless drill too high to avoid damaging the wood. When mounting on the wall, make sure to drill correctly using the appropriate dowels and drill bit size as per the instructions. In summary: a fully charged cordless drill and a spirit level are the two most essential tools. Everything else can be done manually if necessary, though it will be significantly more tiring.
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LOSAR
27 Aug 2021 20:03
I would only recommend a cordless drill/driver and a Phillips bit. The rest is unnecessary if you work carefully. Checking the spirit level once at the beginning is usually enough. I never needed a hammer.
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Jeanbar
28 Aug 2021 10:45
The topic is actually quite important! I think the following tips are useful for someone with little experience:

- Start with a cordless drill/driver. IKEA furniture usually comes with screws that work best with PH2 bits.
- A spirit level is very helpful, especially if you want to attach the PLATSA units to the wall. Proper alignment saves a lot of rework.
- For very precise work, a small Phillips screwdriver can be useful. It helps when screws are tightened and the drill cannot be finely adjusted enough.

Also important: Take your time and read the IKEA assembly instructions carefully. PLATSA modules are often large and can be securely assembled with just a few steps, but planning the arrangement requires an overview. I hope this helps you!
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nojaus
28 Aug 2021 13:17
giabau schrieb:
For assembling the Ikea PLATSA system, I recommend a small list of tools that will make your work much easier:

Exactly, I also think that having the right tools ready beforehand saves a lot of frustration during assembly. In my experience, patience and the right tools are two sides of the same coin. It’s okay if something doesn’t fit perfectly at first – a bit of adjustment helps. So don’t worry if something gets stuck or isn’t perfectly aligned. Being a DIY enthusiast is also a learning process.
LOSAR schrieb:
I would only recommend a cordless drill and a Phillips screwdriver bit. The rest is unnecessary if you work carefully.

I agree, but personally I always keep a spirit level with me because the eye can often be deceived.
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BEMAU
29 Aug 2021 08:04
For a practical addition: a cordless drill with adjustable torque is essential for assembling the PLATSA system. The screws provided by Ikea are mostly chipboard screws, which can easily strip if too much force is applied. To avoid damage to the material, it is advisable to start with a low torque setting.

I also explicitly recommend a spirit level at least 60 cm (24 inches) long, since the modules are usually stacked or placed side by side, and precise alignment is important for both stability and appearance. A rubber mallet can occasionally help to fit the parts flush without damaging the surface.

In my opinion, special drill bits for wall plugs are unnecessary if the wall has been checked beforehand and the correct anchors are used. A good pilot drill bit for marking can help protect the material.