Assembling the INGRID Highboard — Step-by-Step Guide

Proper furniture assembly requires precise cabinet alignment, accurate installation of connecting fittings, and essential wall anchoring for anti-tip protection.

The INGRID highboard is a compact storage solution frequently used in hallways or living rooms. With dimensions such as a depth of 35 cm or widths ranging from 50 cm to 70 cm, this series is particularly suited to narrow spaces. The units are typically made from melamine-coated chipboard and are available in various decors such as Wotan oak or matt finishes.

This guide leads you through the systematic assembly of the series. The individual steps can easily be applied to most standard highboards of this construction type.

Preparation and Required Tools

An organised workspace prevents scratches on the components and speeds up assembly. Line the floor with the packaging cardboard or a blanket. Sort all screws and fittings into small bowls beforehand. A highboard in black with a matt surface is less forgiving of slipping tools than a light wood decor, so care is advised.

The following tools are required for assembly:

• Pozi screwdriver (size PZ2 for most furniture fittings)
• Rubber mallet (for the wooden dowels)
• Spirit level and folding ruler or tape measure
• Drill or hammer drill (for wall fixing)
• Masonry drill bit (usually 6 mm or 8 mm, depending on wall structure)

Assembling the INGRID Highboard: Step-by-Step

Assembly takes around 1.5 to 2 hours for one person with some DIY experience. Follow the order strictly to avoid having to dismantle parts later.

1. Assemble the Carcase

Start with the base panel, the top panel, and the side panels. First, insert all wooden dowels into the designated edge drill holes. A gentle tap with the rubber mallet will secure them. Do not apply glue to the drill holes unless the instructions explicitly require it, as stability is primarily achieved using metal connectors.

Screw the connecting bolts of the cam lock fittings into the pre-drilled threads in the side panels. Bring the components together and insert the circular cam locks into the large drill holes of the internal or base shelves. Turn them clockwise by roughly 180° with a screwdriver until they tighten firmly.

2. Fit the Back Panel and Align the Cabinet

Turn the carcase face down onto the soft surface. The back panel is usually nailed in place or secured with small screws.

Before fixing, it is essential to check the diagonals of the carcase with a ruler (measuring from top-left corner to bottom-right corner and vice versa). Both dimensions must be identical to the millimetre. Only then is the cabinet perfectly square. The nailed back panel acts as the bracing of the furniture piece and provides the necessary torsional rigidity. Space the nails approximately 10 cm to 15 cm apart.

3. Install the Furniture Feet

Attach the feet or the continuous plinth to the bottom panel whilst the furniture is still lying down. For models with height-adjustable feet, screw them fully in at first. Afterwards, stand the highboard upright in its final location. Use the spirit level to level out floor unevenness by adjusting the screw-in feet.

4. Fit the Doors and Hinges

The INGRID series generally uses standard concealed hinges with a 35 mm cup drilling diameter.

• Press the hinge cup into the recess of the door and screw it tight.
• Attach the cruciform mounting plate to the pre-drilled holes on the inside of the carcase.
• Slide the hinge arm onto the mounting plate. On modern systems, this clicks into place via a clip-on mechanism; on older versions, it is secured with a fixing screw.

5. Insert the Shelves

Insert the metal or plastic shelf supports into the row of holes on the side panels. These holes are typically based on System 32, meaning the distance between hole centres is precisely 32 mm. Rest the shelves onto the supports.

Wall Mounting and Anti-Tip Protection

A slim highboard with a depth of only 30 cm or 35 cm has an unfavourable centre of gravity, particularly when doors are opened or heavy items are stored near the front. Wall anchoring is compulsory.

1. Mark the position of the supplied anti-tip bracket (usually a metal bracket or a fabric strap) on the wall.
2. Drill the hole to match the wall plug (e.g. 8 mm).
3. Push the wall plug flush into the wall.
4. Screw the bracket securely to the wall and then to the top panel of the highboard.

Tips and Common Pitfalls

• Stripped screw holes: Never tighten screws in chipboard using a cordless screwdriver on its highest torque setting. Tighten by hand or use a very low torque clutch setting.
• Crooked doors: The gap can be adjusted using the adjustment screws on the hinges. The front screw regulates the lateral overlay, whilst the rear screw adjusts the depth (distance to the carcase).
• Rubbing drawers: If the model includes drawer runners, check whether the ball-bearing runners are fitted perfectly level. Even a deviation of 1 mm can result in rough running action.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I assemble the highboard on my own? The basic assembly of the carcase can easily be carried out by a single person. However, a second person is strongly recommended when standing the unit upright and positioning it for wall mounting.

What is the ideal gap size for the doors? A uniform gap of 2 mm to 3 mm between the doors and the carcase is considered standard. This prevents edges from rubbing when opening and closing.

How do I clean matt or wood-effect surfaces after assembly? Remove drilling dust and fingerprints using a lightly damp, soft cotton cloth. Avoid microfibre cloths, as they can cause micro-scratches on matt or high-gloss foil surfaces.