ᐅ Why is my Ikea Metod kitchen cabinet wobbly after installation?

Created on: 10 May 2021 08:12
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lelalo
Hello everyone, I recently assembled my Ikea Metod kitchen and noticed that it wobbles noticeably whenever you touch it or lean on the countertop. The construction appears to be correctly installed, all cabinets are resting on the floor, and the connecting hardware is tightly fastened. However, the wobbling is still noticeable, especially when putting weight on it. I have already checked the alignment and leveling of the feet but found no irregularities. It is also an issue that the countertop feels a bit “floating” in some areas. Does anyone have an idea what might be causing this and how I can fix the problem permanently? Are there any known construction defects typical for Metod modules? Thanks in advance for your advice!
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lelalo
10 May 2021 15:33
[@BLAKEO, post: l9j8t72, member: XXX]
Thank you, that makes sense. The floor is actually slightly uneven. I had hoped that the felt pads would compensate for this, but they seem to only serve as scratch protection.

I will re-measure the legs and adjust them individually so that they all stand evenly. If necessary, I can also place suitable shims underneath.

It’s really helpful that so many aspects are considered here!
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EDWARD0
10 May 2021 16:02
Adjust the feet, securely screw the back panels, and properly connect the cabinets – these are the most common causes of wobbling.

This is essential with Metod.
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Wyatt
11 May 2021 07:55
Good morning,

since the topic is more complex, here is a final summary with additional information for the original poster and any future readers:

- Feet and floor: Furniture must stand on a level surface. Small unevenness (up to 2-3 mm (0.08-0.12 inches)) can be compensated with adjustable feet. Felt pads are only protective and not a substitute.

- Module connections: The carcasses are joined using cam locks, which must be tightened securely without play and under tension. Wobbling can occur if they are too loose.

- Back panels: These should be secured with at least six screws per cabinet (top, middle, bottom) to prevent warping. Nails are purely decorative and offer little stabilization.

- Wall mounting: It is best to always secure base cabinets with the supplied mounting brackets.

- Worktop: It should be firmly screwed in place and, if possible, attached to the wall to prevent movement.

Please follow all points carefully and in order, especially tightening and correctly fixing the connections. If you like, I can also send a digital checklist for assembly.
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lelalo
11 May 2021 08:28
Thank you, Wyatt, very kind! A checklist would be great, so I can work through it systematically over the weekend.
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Wyatt
11 May 2021 09:00
Checklist clear, here are the key points:

1. Check the floor level (use a spirit level crosswise and lengthwise on the floor)
2. Adjust each leg individually until no movement is detectable
3. Loosen cabinet joints -> remove dust and wood shavings
4. Assemble and tighten cam lock fittings
5. Attach back panels with 6x screws (at least 3.5 mm x 10 mm (0.14 inches x 0.39 inches))
6. Secure base cabinets to the wall using angle brackets
7. Screw the countertop in place, fix to the wall if possible
8. Check the entire assembly for any movement or play

Wishing you much success!