ᐅ Why is my Billy bookcase still wobbly even though I used the included wall anchors?

Created on: 21 May 2023 10:17
F
fumu36
Hello everyone, I recently bought and assembled a Billy shelf from Ikea. I used the included wall plugs both to connect the parts and to secure it to the wall. Despite this, the shelf wobbles quite a bit, especially when shaken or under light load. The screws are tight, and the wall plugs appear to have been used correctly. My question is: Why does my Billy shelf wobble even though I used the supplied wall plugs, which are supposed to provide stability? Could this be related to the type of wall plugs, the wall material, or the assembly method? I would appreciate any tips or advice on what else I could check or do differently.
J
Jukin
22 May 2023 09:48
Hector’s suggestion is very important. I would like to add: Make sure to carefully follow the installation instructions for wall mounting exactly. For both Billy and other shelving units, the correct positioning of the wall brackets is crucial. Mounting them too low or too high can increase wobbling.

Additionally, I recommend installing an extra wall anchor in the lower half of the shelf if the unit is large or heavily loaded. This helps distribute the load significantly, especially with sudden shifting movements.
F
fumu36
22 May 2023 14:08
Hector schrieb:
Are the screws really fully tightened? Sometimes it feels tight, but the screw might not be seated deep enough

Thanks for the tip. I will completely loosen the screws and then tighten them again very carefully. I will also inspect the wall more closely, as this is an older apartment with a mixed wall construction.

I’m also curious: how important is the thickness of the shelf materials for stability? Could the thin wood paneling be the main reason for the wobbling, even though the anchors hold? Or is the wall mounting more critical? I would appreciate any further advice!