You won’t find a more versatile storage solution for your home than shelving. In addition to adding visual contrast, they can also help you organize your home and save some space all at once.
However, if you want to speed up the installation process and make sure to hang your shelves safely, steer clear of these common shelving installation mistakes. In case you’re not sure how to do it, make sure you turn to reliable experts in Loveland for help!
What mistakes should I avoid making when installing new shelves?
Keep these mistakes in mind if you plan on adding shelves soon:
Wrong material choice
Choosing the right shelving unit material for your home requires some consideration. The first thing you should keep in mind is that the type of material they’re made of will determine how much weight they have. It will further affect how easily you’ll be able to mount them on the wall. For example, installing wooden shelves requires longer screws due to the weight of the material, while thin metal shelves may be easier to handle because they weigh less.
Using the wrong tools
As we all know, you can’t drill a hole in a concrete wall with your hands. And it’s not a good idea to search for something halfway through the installation since you’ll only delay the process and possibly waste your efforts.
For this reason, be certain to prepare the necessary tools way in advance:
- A measuring tape
- A standard level
- Drywall anchors
- Screws & a screwdriver
- Shelf brackets
- A hammer
- A drill
Unsuitable location for a shelf
Once everything is ready, decide where your shelf should go. In fact, this step is more crucial than you might think, since homeowners often misplace them without realizing that they are soon in danger of falling off.
Because of this, you’ll also want to consider the type of items you plan to place on it. Your answers will determine whether you need to use drywall anchors or wall studs.
Skimping on screws & brackets
The most common mistake homeowners make is to skip using all the screws they receive with their shelf, and only use a few of them. As a result of this decision, your shelves will probably crash at some point in the future. The manufacturer provides a specific number of screws and brackets for a reason, so please ensure you apply them correctly.
Not checking the wall
There may be cables and wires hidden behind your walls, so don’t just drill into them randomly. Drilling holes wherever you want may also compromise the structure of your home, so it’s best to inspect the wall first and see if anything else will be affected.
To drill safely, you can use a stud finder to help you avoid cables and other wires during this process. Alternatively, examine the location of light switches and outlets. Typically, they have horizontal or vertical wires, so keep your distance from them.
Where can I find shelving installation experts in Loveland and the area?
Looking for some ideas for modern shelves? Or perhaps you want to prepare your home for the new shelving you just bought but don’t know how? No worries, you’re not alone. Handyman Connection of Fort Collins has a team of knowledgeable and devoted technicians up for any challenge.
No matter the issue and scope of the project, we’re ready to handle it and take it off your shoulders completely. Our services range from plumbing to painting your house in Loveland and the region. Simply reach out to us or request a free quote, and enjoy all the benefits of expert shelving installation!