Common Mistakes Made When Buying Wall Brackets for Shelving

Installing shelves can be a transformative DIY project, adding function and aesthetics to any wall in your home. The unsung hero of this project? Wall brackets. Wall brackets hold the key to a sturdy, practical, and visually pleasing shelving system. Too often, though, homeowners and DIY enthusiasts make crucial missteps when selecting these essential shelf support pieces. Let’s dive into the common mistakes when buying wall brackets for shelving so that you can work to avoid them.

Not Considering Weight Capacity

Your new or existing shelves should not only be stylish but also practical. One of the first mistakes buyers make is overlooking the weight capacity of the wall brackets. It’s tempting to opt for brackets that fit your budget or match your aesthetic, but they must support the items on your shelves.

When you choose brackets with inadequate load-bearing capacity, you risk sagging shelves. This leads to instability and could result in items falling and potential damage. Always calculate the weight your shelves will bear and select brackets that exceed this figure to be safe.

Ignoring Wall Material

Different types of wall materials require different approaches to installation and support. Concrete, drywall, and stud walls each present unique challenges and considerations.

Wall bracket options range from your standard L-shaped bracket to more specialized screw-in solutions. A concrete wall will demand heavy-duty anchors, while a drywall installation might require toggle bolts for extra support. Ensure the brackets you choose are compatible with your shelving needs and suited to the wall they’ll go on.

Neglecting Installation Requirements

Proper installation is non-negotiable. Unfortunately, many people get excited about the aesthetics of their new brackets and shelves and overlook the instructions for mounting them correctly.

Improperly installed brackets can lead to shelves that lean or pull away from the wall, creating a hazard. Take the time to understand the installation process and use the appropriate hardware. Also, always double-check that your shelves are secure.

Overlooking Adjustable Options

An often-underappreciated feature of wall brackets is adjustability. Over time, your storage needs might change. Adjustable brackets offer the flexibility to move shelves up or down without reinstalling new brackets.

Investing in adjustable wall brackets means you can adapt your shelving to accommodate changes in your home without needing a complete overhaul. This feature saves time, money, and the headache of renovating.

Not Considering Aesthetics

Your shelves aren’t just for storage; they’re part of your home’s design. Aesthetics should be a consideration when choosing wall brackets. However, you should never sacrifice functionality for form.

Match the style and finish of the brackets to your shelves and the surrounding décor. Choose brackets that enhance the room’s overall look while still providing the necessary support for your shelving requirements.

Now that you know what to avoid when buying wall brackets for shelving, you can take steps to sidestep these pitfalls. Check out Right On Bracket’s selection of shelf brackets, including our open-shelving brackets. Take the time to select the right components so that your shelves will stand the test of time, both in style and practicality.