The way to way to think about IKEA lifespan is not years. Each move and reassemble ages a piece, as does exceeding its load-bearing capacity. If you don't move

The way to way to think about IKEA lifespan is not years. Each move and reassemble ages a piece, as does exceeding its load-bearing capacity. If you don't move it and don't overload it (especially those flimsy backs of bookcases held in by tiny nails), a piece will last many years.