Cube Storage + 18mm Ply - How?

ChilliBob

Hey guys, 

I have just assembled a Homebase version of a Kallax, a 'Clever Cube'. As predicted it doesn't feel super solid. 

This will have vinyl in it, weighing about 15-20kg per shelf - so, the six cubes will need some reinforcement.

A back panel is the obvious first port of call - for strength and functionality - stops stuff going through!.. 

Our bathroom has just been done and conveniently I have an offcut of 18mm ply which is big enough. Yep, 18mm. Overkill but hey, it'll probably make it stronger!.... 

Now these units are basically a frame of laminated 'stuff' - it's too light to be wood, I think it's compressed paper or something, honeycome etc.

Would you:

a. Glue - using say pinkgrip, Stixall, or some other strong adhesive (not pva!)
b. Nail (bear in mind 18mm isn't really panel pin terratory
c. Screw (with 1mm pilot holes

Combine a and c...... OR something else!

I have a couple of sash clamps and more off cuts to protect the front.

Just curious if anyone's done this or not - Google seems to be full of more budget/Blue Peter type hacks as opposed diy!

grumbler

I use screws wherever I can. Try one and see how it holds. Use as small diameter as possible for this length (obviously, with a corresponding, big enough, hole in the plywood).

Take care of the plywood edges before fixing it. Most likely you'll want to (fill(?) and) paint some of them and  this is easier to do in advance. The same applies to the visible side of the plywood.

ChilliBob

Cheers. Yeah the ply is a bit rough, bit it'll be covered on all sides as it's going under a unit and will have stuff either side etc. I'll give it a coat of paint though so if you see through to the back it'll look better..... Or actually some osmo perhaps.

Yeah, I just wonder what the screws have to bite into really, I guess try it and Ill see

ChilliBob

Well screwing seems to work - I tried an offcut, so, that's probably the way I will go.

Trying to think how to brace the shelves now, thinking I may screw a bit of wood in to the inside side which is full height, to reduce down force.