ᐅ Why is my BILLY bookshelf sticking even though it was assembled correctly?

Created on: 31 Oct 2019 20:43
D
Dorus
Hello everyone,

I assembled a Billy bookshelf from IKEA, following the instructions exactly. However, the top shelf panel gets stuck when inserting it. It feels like the groove doesn’t fit properly or the panel might be warped. The bookshelf is standing straight and has no visible damage. Can someone explain why the shelf is sticking despite correct assembly and how I can fix this issue? By the way, I have checked all the screws and none are over-tightened – the bookshelf should fit perfectly.

Thanks for your help!
V
vinpau
1 Nov 2019 19:03
Great insights here! I once had a BILLY bookshelf standing in a very damp basement, and wow, the shelves were just sticking tight. I treated them carefully with sandpaper and a lot of care, and look – they fit perfectly again!

So don’t lose hope! Often, a bit of sanding and patience can solve the problem. And if nothing else works, maybe a gentle warming, for example near a radiator, can help – wood does expand and contract 🙂

Wishing you continued success, you’ll get it sorted!
G
GALENKU
2 Nov 2019 08:04
Remove the shelf and carefully insert the boards using a rubber mallet and a wooden block.

Avoid using metal tools with force.

Clean the groove thoroughly.
D
Dorus
2 Nov 2019 10:59
blagla schrieb:
Please check again to ensure none of the side panels are slightly warped

Thanks for the tip! After checking again, the side panels do seem to be slightly uneven—particularly the left side, which is bowed outward by a few millimeters. This might slightly affect the groove width.
Genevieve schrieb:
Install the shelf board using gentle force and even pressure distribution

I tried that, but the binding remains. I will try to carefully adjust the side panels to be more evenly aligned.

Thanks again for all the suggestions. Tomorrow I’ll take some sandpaper and a wooden block to see if that helps! 🙂