Tips to Putting up Wood Shelf Brackets
When you are shelving around the house, there is nothing that makes work easier that wood shelf brackets. Despite this, most homeowners prefer other types of shelf brackets on the basis of ease of installation. Everything comes down as to the amount of weight that will be expected on the shelf. This should help you determine what type of brackets would be perfect for that specific shelf. In a household setting, most people would prefer uniformity in terms of the furniture present and the fittings around the house. When it comes to furniture paint, the same should be extended to the shelves too. Whether you are using the adjustable wood shelf brackets or the L-brackets, below are some of the ways that you can make your work easier.
Use Heavy Duty Anchors
If the shelf brackets are being installed on dry wall, then make a point of using heavy duty anchors or specialty clamp sets instead of cheap plastic anchors. In most cases, heavy duty anchors are either made from steel or aluminum and are more likely to provide enhanced support as opposed to the plastic ones. Just like any adjustable shelving hardware, heavy duty anchors are supposed to extend beyond the surface of the drywall in order to provide stronger support both for the bracket and the shelf.
Use a Level and Measuring Tape
This is one of the most overlooked concepts in DIY kind of shelving. Some homeowners don’t see the point of using such shelf hardware but a level and a measuring tape acts as the sole guide towards positioning of the shelf. When putting up wooden shelf brackets, it is important that you measure the distance between the brackets and also ensure that the brackets are level to the wall. By using the tow tools, you can hardly go wrong when it comes ensuring that the shelf brackets are perfectly straight. The importance of this is that level and straight shelf brackets will create a stronger base support for the shelf and will also make the shelf appear like it was installed by a professional.
Pre-Drill Screw Holes
It is important that you pre-drill the screw holes before any other activity takes place. Whether you intend to use drywall anchors or wood screws, undertaking this important exercise in advance can save you a lot of time since the process of inserting screws becomes much easier. The same exercise is recommended when setting up drawer locks. Pre-drilled holes also ensure that you do not damage the wall surface. This saves you time that would otherwise have been spent in repairing the walls using drywall or wood putty. Pre-drilling also ensures that the screws are inserted evenly and in a straight manner.
Install the L-Brackets before the Shelf
If you intend to use the L-brackets, make sure that these are attacked to the wall before hanging the shelf. This is because; the L-brackets are the ones supporting the shelf. You cannot install both at the same time since you will be doing more work and the accuracy level will be minimal. It is much easier and safer if you attach the shelf board to the bracket while it is on a surface such as table as opposed to trying to do the same while you are on the ladder.
