Adding shelves to an existing wall is a great way to maximize storage space and functionality in any room. Shelves provide spots to display decorative items, store books and photos, or organize other household items. Building your own custom shelves allows you to control the size, style, and placement to perfectly suit your space and storage needs. With some basic tools, materials, and DIY know-how, you can successfully install shelves on your wall.
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Things to Consider Before Starting
There are a few key factors to think through before beginning a shelves project:
Shelf Placement
Decide where you want the shelves to go and measure the area. Make sure there is enough open wall space for the size shelves you want to install. Take into account windows, doors, electrical outlets, baseboards, and any existing built-ins or furniture when planning placement.
Shelf Size
Figure out the ideal shelf dimensions and quantity of shelves for your space. Standard depths tend to range from 8”-16”. Common lengths are 3 to 8 feet. However, you can customize this to your needs. Consider what you intend to store on the shelves and how much space those items will require.
Shelf Material
Shelves can be made from various materials like wood, metal, glass, etc. The material affects the look, cost, and load capacity. For DIY purposes, wood is very popular – pine boards are an affordable option that can be stained or painted. Sturdier woods like oak or maple are good for holding heavier items.
Mounting Method
There are several ways to attach shelves to a wall, including:
- Brackets –Shelf brackets provide solid support and are easy to install.
- Floating – Floating shelves attach directly to the wall, creating a cleaner, more modern look.
- Ledger – A ledger board is mounted horizontally to the wall and shelves are attached to that.
Evaluate your wall material (drywall, concrete, etc.) and the shelf weight to determine the best mounting method.
Load Capacity
Consider the total weight the shelves need to hold without sagging or pulling away from the wall. For example, shelves full of heavy books require more load capacity than sparse decorative shelves.
Selecting Materials
Once you’ve evaluated the project specifics, it’s time to gather the necessary materials. Having all materials readily available will make the installation process go smoothly.
Lumber
The most important component is the lumber for the actual shelves. As previously mentioned, choose wood that suits your budget, matches your decor, and can properly bear the weight of your items. For smaller shelves, 1×8, 1×10, or 1×12 pine boards are common. For heavier loads, choose hardwood boards or 2×10, 2×12 construction lumber.
Purchase boards that are longer than your finished shelves will be so they can be cut to custom sizes.
Brackets
If using shelf brackets, choose the size and weight rating needed for your project. Brackets typically come in 4”, 6”, 8”, 10” lengths. Match the bracket size to the depth of your shelves. For example, 10” brackets for 10” deep shelves. The packaging specifies the weight capacity.
You will need 2 brackets per shelf. Buy enough for the total number of shelves you’re installing.
Screws
Select screws long enough to secure the shelves to the wall studs. 3 to 4 inch wood screws are recommended for most brackets. Investing in high-quality screws can prevent loosening over time.
Anchors
For added support, anchors can be used along with screws when securing to drywall. Plastic expandable anchors or molly bolts are two common options.
Tape Measure
An essential tool for measuring and marking stud locations, shelf dimensions, and spacing. Make sure it can extend across the length of your project wall.
Level
A level ensures your shelves will be straight and even. Use either a standard bubble level or laser level.
Stud Finder
A must for locating the wall studs behind drywall so you can secure the shelves properly. Choose an electronic stud finder for best results.
Drill/Driver
You’ll need a power drill for pilot holes and driving in screws efficiently. A cordless drill/driver combo gives flexibility.
Other
Safety gear like glasses and gloves are recommended. You may also need a ladder. Have sandpaper, wood filler, paint/stain, and tools for finishing the shelves to your preferences.
Installation Steps
Once you have gathered all the necessary materials and tools, you’re ready to start the shelf installation. Follow these key steps:
Step 1: Find and Mark Stud Locations
Finding the studs behind your drywall is crucial for proper support. Use an electronic stud finder tool to locate stud edges and center. Mark their locations with temporary pencil marks. Studs are typically 16 inches apart.
Step 2: Decide Shelf Placement and Space Evenly
Based on your planned shelf quantity, decide the starting height and spacing between shelves. Aim for even spacing from the floor to ceiling. Use a pencil to lightly mark level lines where you want the top edge of each shelf to go.
Step 3: Cut Shelves to Length
Measure and mark your shelf boards to the desired length. Cut them to size using a power miter saw. You can also use a circular saw or even handsaw. Cut shelves so there will be at least 1 inch of overlap with the bracket edge on each side.
Step 4: Attach Brackets
Hold a bracket level at the height of your first pencil line. The bracket top aligns with the shelf mark. Use a stud finder to mark the edges of the nearest studs.
Predrill holes into the studs, then use wood screws to secure each bracket. Attach the remaining brackets at the marked heights along the wall.
Step 5: Anchor Shelves to Brackets
Rest one shelf board on top of a set of brackets. Position so there is equal overhang on both sides. Drill pilot holes and attach the shelf securely through the bracket holes using screws.
Repeat this for the remaining shelves on all brackets.
Step 6: Finish Shelves and Add Decor
For a complete built-in look, finish shelves with wood filler, sanding, staining, painting, etc. Once dry, style shelves with your decorative items or organized possessions.
Safety Tips
When installing shelves yourself, keep these safety recommendations in mind:
– Use eye and ear protection when operating power tools.
– Be mindful of electrical outlets and wiring when drilling into walls.
– Use sturdy ladders or step stools to reach higher locations. Refrain from standing on chairs or other furniture.
– Weight shelves safely – do not exceed the load capacity of the brackets. Distribute weight evenly.
– Ensure shelves are firmly attached and will not pull loose or collapse.
Conclusion
Adding shelves provides excellent storage solutions and design flexibility. With appropriate planning and materials, you can successfully install shelves tailored to your space. Measure carefully, find studs, choose quality brackets and screws, and utilize power tools safely. Inspect the finished shelves to ensure stability and levelness before loading up your items. Built-in shelves are an easy weekend project for DIYers and offer lasting functionality and style.