Step 8 – Suspension of the free-floating bookcase row

The free-floating bookcase row of Billy bookcases must be given special attention despite the 30 mm multiplex plate in terms of static load. The point here is just not to load the total weight of the free-floating bookcase rows via the top racks, which are located on the left and right side of each row. The red arrows in the picture below show the load transfer via the connection of the free-floating row of bookcases to the normal high Billy bookcases. To reduce the load transfer additional suspension points are created, shown in the picture by the green arrows.

The suspension is realized by three aluminum flat profiles which are very stable with the appropriate dimensions.

After cutting to length, holes are drilled and lowered into the profiles. A word about the tool: Over the last few years I have made some experience with bad and good tools. The products that I show and mention have proven themselves. The Würth metal drills are super sharp and by the way not as high priced as to suspect. With the right tool, the job is much easier – but without it can be a struggle.

The flat profiles are screwed directly into the multiplex board at three defined points (pre-drilling is needed). The flat profiles are about 6 cm above the last body and have an 8 mm hole in the middle. A through hole was made through the masonry with a long hammer drill and then the profiles were attached to a threaded rod. It is advisable to relieve the free-floating bookcase row from below (supports) before the hole in the masonry is drawn and created.

With the additional suspension realized in this way the construction is statically on the safe side. The hangers also secure the entire bookcase wall against tipping.

On the pictures are still the screw points of the multiplex floor plate to see. These rows of screws must still be covered with a blend profile. The blend profile should also make the wall connection. Again, a stucco profile made of polyurethane is used, which should visually enhance the construction. First of all, the profile (like all polyurethane profiles) has to be sanded and painted slightly flat. Even after the last coat, the profiles on the back side should be sanded again shortly, as usually some paint runs on the back.

Then the profiles are glued on with special profile adhesive (Titan Super). After the glue has dried, the joints to the wall and the edges of the profiles to the bottom plate (here only a 3mm seam) is filled with acrylic joint sealant. The wall connection joints are painted over after drying with the same color of the wall.

The library is now visually appealing integrated in the living room.

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