The IKEA PAX wardrobe system is the most popular closet solution we assemble in DMV homes and apartments. It's also the piece people most often underestimate. One frame looks simple on the box. Three frames with sliding doors, drawers and interior fittings is a full day.
HOW LONG IT TAKES
| Component | Typical Time (Experienced Assembler) |
|---|---|
| One frame (carcass) | 45 – 75 minutes |
| Hinged doors, per pair | 30 – 45 minutes including adjustment |
| Sliding doors, per frame width | 60 – 90 minutes |
| Drawers (KOMPLEMENT), each | 15 – 25 minutes |
| Anchoring and leveling | 20 – 30 minutes |
For a first-timer, double these. A typical three-frame wardrobe with doors and a few drawers takes a pro 5 to 8 hours and a DIYer most of a weekend.
CHECK YOUR CEILING
PAX frames are built lying down and then tipped up. The tall 236 cm (about 93 inch) frames need extra ceiling height to clear the diagonal while tipping. Measure your ceiling in several spots; older DMV homes and basements often have soffits, ducts or sloped ceilings that block a tall frame. When the ceiling is tight, use the 201 cm frames or build in place.
WHY IT MUST BE ANCHORED
A loaded PAX frame is tall, shallow and heavy at the top, which makes it a tipping hazard. Every frame should be fastened to the wall with the included bracket into a stud, or a toggle bolt where there's none. Details in our anti-tip anchoring guide.
MISTAKES THAT COST HOURS
- Uneven floors. Older floors are rarely level. Shim frames so doors close square, or sliding doors will drift.
- Baseboards. Frames sit off the wall by the baseboard depth unless you notch the back or remove the baseboard.
- Building in the wrong room. Assembled frames often won't fit through a doorway or down a hallway.
- Hinge adjustment last. Leave door alignment until every frame is anchored, or you'll do it twice.
WHAT IT COSTS
| Project | Typical DMV Assembly Cost |
|---|---|
| Single frame with hinged doors | $120 – $220 |
| Two to three frames, doors, basic interior | $350 – $700 |
| Large walk-in system with sliding doors and drawers | $700 – $1,400 |
Wall anchoring is included. Removing an old closet system or building around baseboards and soffits adds time.
Have everything delivered before the appointment and leave the boxes in the room where the wardrobe will stand. Missing parts are the most common reason a PAX job needs a second visit.
RELATED READING
ANCHORING FURNITURE TO THE WALL
Which furniture to anchor, the right hardware for drywall, plaster and brick, and the mistakes to avoid.
FURNITURE ASSEMBLY: WHEN TO DIY VS. HIRE A PRO
What professional furniture assembly costs, which jobs are worth delegating, and what you can combine with other tasks to save a trip charge.
TURNING A CLOSET INTO A HOME OFFICE
Desk depth, outlets, lighting, ventilation and shelving, plus what a cloffice costs.
Planning a project? See our Furniture Assembly service page for scope, process and recent work.
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