How to make a small computer desk stable?

Question

Hey guys,

I got a small computer desk for free yesterday. I'm planning to use it during the school year to study and such. But it doesn't seem that stable.

The top of the desk doesn't seem to be too attached to it's legs. And it wiggles a bit and almost pulls apart when i bump it.

Can you give me some tips on how I can get it to be more stable? I was thinking of nailing in a few nails here and there, but I don't really know where?

Answer 1

Glue or s***w peices of block were it is weak to build up its strength

Good Luck

Answer 2

First... what kind of desk is this?  

For example - do it yourself assembly, aka 'knockdown' furniture will often become loose where the fasteners connect joints.  I'd look for those first, and tighten them.

Don't drive any nails thru the surfaces.... instead get L-brackets, and flat plates (if needed) and secure the corners from underneath.  Just be sure to use a short s***w, so it doesnt come thru the surface, hehehehe.

Another option is to add some wood framing to help give it some strength... this might be something as simple as a 1x3, or 2x4.  Again, use brackets to secure things where you can.

In pre-assembled furniture, wood joints can sometimes become loose over the years... you've probably sat in a dining chair that was wobbly, and rickety at some point... those are a good example.  There are products you can buy that will make the joint more secure, either by gluing it, or causing it to swell.

And there's always the possibility there has been some damage to the unit, which needs to be repaired.

If you'd like to email some photo's I might be able to give you some more specific advice.

Good Luck

Answer 3

Wiggle your desk and look for any gaps that appear, especially underneath the desk and where the legs attach to the desk top. Buy a small bottle of wood glue and squeeze it into all the gaps. Then nail all spots that had gaps.