Tips on putting up wall mounted shelving
Wall mounted shelving provides easy visibility and access to items which can be stored off the floor and controls clutter. Wall mounted shelves are used to display items like objects, collectibles or souvenirs. The shelf itself is an important item of interior decor. Hence, wall mounted shelving has both utilitarian and decorative functions which must be considered during installation. Read more for tips on putting up wall mounted shelving.
Location
Ease of access
Choose location based on the entire room layout and ease with which you will want to access the items. Most shelf storage is located about 5’ to 6’ off the floor.
Do not create obstructions
However, make sure that they are not an obstruction to a door swing or cast undesirable shadows when room lights are turned on. Before fixing shelving units on the wall, you can use a card-board cut-out of the size of the shelf to get an idea of how the wall will appear when it is occupied by the shelving.
Interior decor
The wall mounted shelf may be used for display or may itself be appreciated for its decorative value. Choose the location such that it can be viewed favourably and relates well to other furnishings in the room. Though, shelves may or may not be centred on a wall, the margins should be left from the openings and corners should appear balanced and well-considered.
Technique
Shelf mounting
The mounting of shelves need not always require a professional hand and can quite easily be carried out by DIY enthusiasts. Two people may be required for mounting heavy shelves. It is also helpful when someone else is available for opinions on placement and level.
Checking wall construction
Check the local construction of the wall before you mount the shelves to find the location of wall studs or concrete columns and shear walls. This can be done by lightly tapping on the wall for hollow sounds.
Fixing the shelf
There are different details to fixing shelving systems on the wall, though the use of shelf brackets is most common. Lightly mark a pencil line where the shelves will be hung and make sure that it is levelled with the floor. Place the wall mounting brackets on this line such that the ends of the shelf will be supported. Long shelves may need central supports to prevent the sagging from loads. The brackets are fixed to the wall with 2” screws. Then, place the shelf unit on the bracket and attach it with the screws.
When mounting wall shelves, choose the location after careful consideration and ensure that the shelf is at the right height and parallel to the floor.
