ᐅ Why is the paint peeling off my BILLY shelf?

Created on: 22 Sep 2024 08:42
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INGOBU
Hello everyone, I have a question that has been on my mind for a while: Why does the paint on my IKEA Billy bookshelf start peeling after only a short time and with fairly normal use? The shelf is kept dry, I have not used any harsh cleaners on it, and I have not noticed any mechanical damage either. The affected surface feels rough in some areas, and the paint is starting to peel slightly at a few corners. What could be causing this paint to come off, and are there any tips to prevent the paint from peeling or wearing away? I mainly use the shelf for books and occasionally some decorative items. Thanks for your insights!
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RENMA
22 Sep 2024 18:02
Davidleo schrieb:
try a protective film made from furniture wax or a thin layer of hard wax [...] protects and looks good

This is an interesting approach; however, care should be taken to ensure that the wax used does not leave sticky residues that attract dust and dirt. The surface must also be free of loose material before application. Regular maintenance with suitable products can help extend the lifespan of the coating.
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sanjon
23 Sep 2024 07:11
A quick addition for the morning: Usually, cheap particle boards are the cause. More protection is provided by a glass panel or a thin MDF board as a cover. This prevents abrasion and moisture.
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INGOBU
23 Sep 2024 08:47
Thank you for all your helpful tips and ideas! The topic of using MDF board as a protective layer sounds interesting, but for me, it would be a minor additional investment and might have some aesthetic drawbacks. I will primarily experiment with clear varnish and possibly wax. If that doesn’t improve the situation, I’m considering getting a shelf made of a different material.

Your contributions have clearly shown me that the paint peeling is indeed caused by the system itself and is worsened by environmental factors. This really helps me understand the problem better. Thank you very much!
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juMira46
23 Sep 2024 09:15
Glad to hear you found some useful tips! 🙂 Good luck with the repairs – and remember, a little patience is part of the process. If it works out, you’ll have basically upgraded your shelf yourself!