The Ultimate Guide to Installing Corner Shelves
Corner shelves are the perfect solution for maximizing space and adding a touch of style to your home. They provide much-needed storage and enhance your home’s aesthetic appeal. If you are already familiar with the installation process for other shelf types, you may be interested in the special considerations to take note of when it comes to installing corner shelves. In this guide, we’ll explore the benefits of corner shelves and provide step-by-step instructions for selecting and installing them.
Benefits of Corner Shelves
Corner shelves are a fantastic way to take advantage of space that is often underutilized. These shelves fit snugly into compact spaces, allowing you to make the most of every inch of your room. They help reduce clutter by creating a dedicated space for books, decor, and other items.
Apart from their practical use, corner shelves offer a unique design element that can transform a room’s appearance. They are a versatile storage solution that can be used in bedrooms, kitchens, or shared living spaces. With various materials and styles available, you can easily find shelves that complement your existing decor.
How To Select Corner Shelves
Choosing the right corner shelves is crucial for the success of your project. Start by considering the material of the shelves. Wood, metal, and glass are popular options, each catering to different interior design styles and offering levels of durability.
Next, consider the shelves’ weight capacity. Reflect on what items you plan to display to ensure they are sturdy enough to support your needs. Some shelves are designed for lightweight decor, while others can hold heavier items like books and electronics.
Lastly, you’ll have to carefully measure the dimensions of where you would like to install corner shelves to determine the ideal size to choose.
Supplies for Installation
Before you begin installing your corner shelves, gather all the necessary supplies. You will need a drill, a stud finder, a level, a tape measure, screws, and wall anchors. Having these tools on hand will ensure a smooth and efficient installation process.
In addition, consider purchasing a heavy-duty shelving bracket if you plan to place heavy items on your shelves. These brackets provide extra support and stability, preventing any sagging or damage over time.
Don’t forget a pencil to mark measurements and placements on the wall. This will help maintain accuracy throughout the installation, ensuring your shelves are aligned and level.
Planning and Measuring
Begin planning the installation by measuring your preferred location for the shelves. Measure how far you want one side to extend from the wall and subtract the shelf width from the length of the second side.
Slowly slide a stud finder horizontally across your wall to find the studs, which are the strongest anchor points for your shelf. Keep wall stud location and shelf span limits in mind when installing brackets later.
If you intend to install multiple shelves, make sure to leave enough space between each one as well. A good rule of thumb is to space corner shelves vertically by at least 12 to 15 inches.
Mark Wall Placement
Once you’ve determined the placement of your shelves, it’s time to mark the wall. Use your pencil to draw light lines where the brackets will be installed. Double-check each mark with your level to maintain accuracy.
These marks guide drilling and will help you visualize how the shelves will look once installed. Clear and precise marking is key to a successful installation, so take your time to get it right.
Insert Hardware or Anchors
The type of hardware or anchoring device you use for your corner shelves depends on the manufacturer’s instructions and the type of wall you are installing the shelf on. For installing brackets on wall studs, pre-drill holes directly into the wood with a cordless drill.
If you’re mounting the shelves on drywall, wall anchors will provide the necessary support. Drill holes at your marked points and insert the anchors so they flush to the wall.
Install Shelf Bracket
With the holes pre-drilled and anchors securely in place, attach the shelf brackets. Align each bracket with the drilled holes and secure them using screws. Make sure they are level before fully tightening the screws.
The brackets serve as the backbone of your corner shelves, so install them correctly. They should be sturdy enough to support the weight of the shelves and any items you place on them.
Double-check the alignment of each bracket before installing the shelves themselves. Making any necessary adjustments now is easier than after the shelves are in place.
Mount Corner Shelves
Finally, it’s time to install the shelves onto the brackets. Carefully slide them onto the brackets and secure them with screws or fasteners if necessary. Ensure your shelf pieces are up against the corner walls with no visible gaps.
Proper maintenance is essential for keeping your shelves in top shape. Regularly dusting and avoiding placing excessive weight on them will ensure they last for years to come.
Double-Check Your Work
Before loading your shelves with items, double-check your work. Ensure each shelf is level and properly secured to the brackets. Minor adjustments may be needed to achieve perfect alignment.
It is crucial to test the shelves’ stability. Place a few items on them and observe their response. The shelves should remain firm, with no signs of strain or wobble.
Decorate Your Corner Shelves
Now comes the fun part—decorating your newly installed corner shelves! Choose a mix of practical and decorative items to display. Books, plants, picture frames, and small art pieces make excellent choices.
Create a balanced arrangement by varying the height and size of the items. Play with textures and colors to add visual interest and focal points. Avoid overcrowding the shelves; you want a clean, organized look. The goal is to enhance the room’s aesthetics while providing functional storage.
Conclusion
Installing corner shelves is an enriching project for decorators looking to use every spare inch in their home. With careful planning and execution, you can transform unused corners into stylish and functional spaces. If you’re eager to explore other home improvement projects, consider exploring Right On Bracket’s website for more resources on shelf installation and decoration. And check out our selection of shelving brackets that are perfect for any DIY installation.
