Why BILLY Bookcases Sag
The BILLY is the world's most-sold bookcase — and the one most likely to sag after a year. The shelves rest on wooden dowels, and particleboard shelves loaded with books bow over time. Here's how to assemble it so it stays flat.
Use the Shelf Pins Correctly
Each shelf sits on four dowels that fit into pre-drilled holes. Insert all four dowels before placing the shelf, and confirm each is in the same row of holes (same height). A shelf on three dowels sags immediately.
The Height That Matters
The middle shelves sag most. Place the fixed shelf (the one with metal brackets) where the books are heaviest. The fixed shelf is structural — don't skip it.
Don't Overload the Top
Books on the top shelf raise the center of gravity and the shelf tips. Put lighter items up top, heavy books on the bottom two shelves.
Anchor It
A loaded BILLY is top-heavy. Use the included wall anchor — a BILLY that tips forward dumps every book on whoever's below.
The Back Panel Is Structural
Nail the back panel fully. It's what keeps the bookcase square; without it, the side panels spread and the shelves drop their dowels.
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