Closet drawers should be deep enough to accommodate the items that need to be stored. Generally, the minimum depth for closet drawers should be about 12 inches, but deeper drawers may be more suitable for certain items.
For example, if you plan on storing a lot of sweaters or bulky items in your closet drawers, you’ll want at least 20 inches of depth to account for the added bulk. Shallow drawers can be useful for storing items that don’t take up a lot of space (such as folded t-shirts or hose), as well as cosmetics and jewelry.
Additionally, when selecting the depth of your closet drawers, be sure to account for the space to open and close the drawers. Keeping in mind these factors will help you to select closet drawers that are appropriately sized for your needs.
How far below a shelf should a closet rod be?
The rule of thumb for how far below a shelf a closet rod should be installed is 12-14 inches. This allows a comfortable distance for hangers to be placed and used with ease, as well as leaving room for additional storage under the shelf.
It also allows for ample clothing clearance from the shelf above. Additionally, when hanging clothes that are particularly long, an extra few inches can provide you with more hanging space. If for any reason you need the closet rod further below the shelf, the maximum distance can be around 18 inches.
What is a standard closet depth?
The standard closet depth is generally 24 to 26 inches deep. This measurement accounts for the walls of the closet and the back of the door, making it large enough to fit a standard hanging wardrobe and shelves.
You’ll also want to take into account the thickness of any doors, molding, or finishing materials that you are using. Finally, keep in mind that a deeper closet depth may be beneficial if you plan on storing boots or other items that need more vertical space.
What kind of wood do you use to build closet shelves?
The type of wood used to build closet shelves is determined by personal preference, accessibility, and cost. Generally, use of a hardwood such as oak or maple is preferable due to durability and longevity; however, in some cases, depending on the climate, softer woods such as pine or cedar may be used.
Hardwoods are generally more expensive due to availability; however, they are better adapted to handle the weight of heavier items such as towels and clothing. Soft woods may be more accessible due to the abundance of different types of wood, however, when considering cost and durability, hardwoods are usually beneficial in the long run.
In addition, hardwoods come in a variety of finishes and have smooth grains creating a more aesthetic appealing look.
Ultimately, the best wood for closet shelves is dependent on availability, budget, and the weight of the items being stored. Taking into consideration all the different factors, hardwoods are usually the best option for creating high quality, durable closet shelves.
How thick should plywood be for shelves?
When selecting plywood for shelves, it is important to consider the intended use of the shelves and the size and weight of the items to be stored on them. For most general applications, a thickness of ¾ inches (18 mm) is recommended.
However, for heavier items or where extra strength may be required, a thickness of 5 to 7-ply plywood should be used. The number of plies in the plywood indicates its strength and durability; the higher the number of plies, the stronger and more durable the shelf will be.
For applications such as subfloors, wall paneling and roof sheathing, a minimum of 5-ply is generally recommended. Finally, it’s important to remember that the thickness should be consistent throughout the entire panel.
Any variance in thickness can reduce the strength of the shelf and lead to sag or failure.
What material should I use for closet shelves?
When considering which material to use for closet shelves, you should think about the needs of the space and what kind of items you plan to store. For example, if you plan to store heavy items like books, then you should choose a more sturdy material such as plywood or MDF (medium-density fiberboard).
If you plan to store lighter items such as clothing, then you can opt for lighter materials like particleboard or thin layers of hardwood.
One important factor to consider is the environment in which your closet shelves will live. For example, if the closet is located in a high-humidity environment such as a bathroom or basement, then you may want to choose moisture resistant materials such as laminate or PVC.
On the other hand, if the closet is located in a drier environment then materials such as wood or MDF may be a better choice.
When deciding which material to use, you should also consider the aesthetic of the closet shelves. If you want the shelves to blend into the walls, then you may want to choose a material that can be painted or stained to match the existing colors of the space.
Alternatively, if you want the shelves to stand out, then you may want to opt for a more vibrant material such as bamboo or metal.
Finally, it’s important to consider your budget. If you’re on a tight budget, then you may want to opt for cheaper materials such as particleboard or MDF. If you have a more flexible budget, then you can choose more expensive materials such as hardwood or metal.
Ultimately, the best material for closet shelves will depend on the needs of the space and the items you plan to store. Consider the environment, aesthetics, and budget of the space before deciding which material to use.
How do you build a heavy duty shelf in a closet?
Building a heavy duty shelf in a closet is a fairly straightforward process. The first step is to decide what type of shelf to build. If you are looking for more of a solid shelf, either a wooden one or one made out of metal would work well.
Otherwise, for a more lightweight option, wire shelves are also an option.
Once you have chosen the shelf type, it is time to gather the materials that you need. This includes the shelf pieces, screws and drill, as well as a level and a measuring tape if you need to make any adjustments.
Next, it is time to assemble the shelf. Start by measuring your closet and then cutting the shelf pieces to the appropriate size. Drill the screws into the wall and attach the shelf pieces to the screws to ensure the shelf won’t fall over.
Be sure to check that the shelf is level before moving on.
You can then install a support bracket underneath the shelf if you need additional support. This is especially important if you are installing a heavier shelf. Attach the bracket to the wall and the shelf, and then finish it off with any additional accessories you may need, such as shelf brackets.
And that’s it! With this process, you should have a heavy duty shelf in your closet in no time.
Should I use plywood or MDF for shelves?
When considering what material to use for shelves, plywood or MDF (medium-density fiberboard) are two of the most common options. Plywood is made from thin sheets of veneer that are stacked upon one another and held together with an adhesive.
Plywood is a stiff, strong material, making it a popular option for shelving. Plywood is also relatively lightweight and easy to work with, making it a great choice for do-it-yourself projects. One downside to plywood shelves is that they are susceptible to warping and shrinking if the environment changes too drastically.
MDF is a manufactured wood product created by breaking down hardwood or softwood residuals into wood fibers, and combining them with wax and a resin binder to form panels. MDF is much denser and heavy than plywood, and it’s also more affordable.
It is generally smooth on both sides, with no knots or voids, making it a great option for shelves. It is best to coat MDF with paint or laminate to prevent the edges from chipping and reduce dust emissions.
However, MDF can swell if it absorbs too much moisture, which can cause warping and weakening.
Both plywood and MDF have their advantages and disadvantages, so the decision of which to use for shelves comes down to various factors. If cost and weight are not an issue, then plywood could be the better choice.
However, if weight and cost are a consideration, then MDF could be a better option. Taking into account the environment in which the shelves will be installed and understanding the differences between plywood and MDF can help to make the right decision.
Will plywood shelves sag?
Yes, plywood shelves can sag over time. This is particularly true when the shelves are not properly supported and when items that are too heavy for the shelves are placed on them. Plywood shelves should be supported with steel brackets and screws on the ends and middle of the shelves.
Furthermore, the weight of items stored on the shelves should not exceed the maximum recommended amount, as indicated in the plywood’s weight-bearing ratings. Moisture and humidity can also affect the performance of plywood shelves, so it is important to make sure that the plywood is properly sealed before installing it.
Properly sealing plywood can help to prevent sagging, warping, and splitting.
How much space do you need for drawer slides?
The amount of space needed for drawer slides depends on what type of slides you are using. For side-mount slides, installation requires a space of about ½ inch between the drawer and cabinet sides. For bottom-mount slides, you’ll need to measure for the length and the width between the drawer and cabinet.
This will usually range between 3/8” to ¾” on each side, although it can vary slightly based on the specific brand or type of drawer slides.
For center-mount slides, a space of ¾” to 1” is usually required between the drawer and the cabinet face and a ½” or 5/8” space on each side. However, this may vary depending on the measurements of the drawer box and the brand of drawer slides.
When it comes time to install the slides, be sure double-check the measurements to ensure everything fits correctly. Additionally, consider how thick the material of the drawer and cabinet are, as this can affect the total space needed for the slides.
How do I add shelves to my closet?
Adding shelves to your closet is a great way to maximize your storage space and make it easier to find and organize your items. Here are the steps to adding shelves to your closet:
1. Measure the inside of your closet and decide where you want each shelf to go. Make sure there is enough space to open the door and access your items.
2. Purchase the appropriate material for your shelves, such as plywood, particleboard, or melamine-coated boards.
3. If you are going to install adjustable shelves, select the mounting hardware you need.
4. Cut the shelves to size and mark the locations for the holes for the shelf supports.
5. Drill the holes for the shelf supports, then attach the shelf supports to the walls.
6. Place the shelves on the shelf supports and make sure they are level.
7. For added stability, use brackets or another type of hardware to attach the shelves to the wall.
8. Once everything is in place, you can use shelf dividers, drawers, and baskets to organize your closet.
With a little bit of effort, you can easily add shelves to your closet for an affordable way to get organized.
How do you make homemade shelves?
Making homemade shelves is an easy and economical way to add storage to any room. Here are the steps to making your own shelves:
1. Start by measuring the wall space where you want to put your shelves. Then, decide on the size and material of your shelves. You can choose wood, metal, particleboard, etc.
2. Cut the shelf material to the desired size for the area that you are covering. Use a miter saw or jigsaw if necessary.
3. Now, you will need to make the shelf supports. If you’re using wood, you can use 2”x2” boards to make the supports. You can also use metal angle irons. Make sure your supports are cut to the right size.
4. Mount the supports on the wall. Make sure they are level, and use a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall. Secure the shelf supports to the wall with appropriate screws/anchors.
5. Now put the shelf on top of the supports. Make sure it is level, and secure it with screws or other fasteners.
6. Once you have your shelves up, you can paint or stain the wood, or add any other decorations, like brackets, to make the shelves look more finished.
And that’s it! You now have your own homemade shelves. They are a great DIY project, and can easily be made with minimal tools and materials.
How can I make an inexpensive shelf?
Making your own inexpensive shelf can be a great DIY project if you’re looking to spruce up your home without spending a lot of money. Here are some tips to get you started:
1. Shop around for old pieces of furniture or cut boards at the lumberyard and use them to make a simple shelf. You can also scout out garage sales, flea markets, and second-hand stores for ready-made shelving units.
2. Choose between a wall-mounted or freestanding shelf. Wall-mounted shelves are space-saving and offer a minimalist look while freestanding shelves are more flexible and can be rearranged easily.
3. Pick up some brackets from hardware stores or craft stores to further customize the look. You can pick up different sizes and materials, such as metal or wood, to create the exact look and shape you want.
4. For shelving material, wood is the traditional choice and looks nice when stained. You can also use a combination of different materials, such as metal piping, cinder blocks, and old shutters, to add a unique touch to your shelf.
5. Consider using wall anchors and a level to ensure the shelf is attached securely and aligned properly.
By following these steps, you can easily create a unique and inexpensive shelf that fits all your needs.
Is it cheaper to build or buy shelves?
The answer to this question depends on a number of factors. Generally, if you have the tools and skills necessary to build shelves, it is likely to be the cheaper option. Buying pre-made shelves can be more expensive, but could still be the best choice depending on your needs and budget.
One key factor is the specific type of shelves you need. If you are looking for shelves with a custom size, design, or shape, then it is almost always cheaper to build them your self, as it is unlikely you will be able to find something to meet your exact needs in stores.
On the other hand, if you only need basic shelves, then it may be easier and cheaper to buy them. Additionally, if you are on a time crunch, then it might be cheaper to buy pre-made shelves, as it would save you the time it takes to build them.
The cost of materials, tools, and labor are all things to consider when determining whether it is cheaper to build or buy shelves. While building them yourself may save you some money, it is important to factor in the costs of the supplies and tools you’ll need.
Additionally, if you are not comfortable with DIY projects and don’t already own the necessary tools, it may be more cost effective to buy pre-made shelves.
Ultimately, the decision about whether to build or buy shelves will depend on the specific shelves you need, your budget and timeline, DIY skills and tools, and other factors. Good luck!
What wood is for making shelves?
When choosing wood for shelves, it is important to consider the type, weight and amount of items that will be placed on them. For light weight items, you can use pine, oak, or hickory. For heavier items, such as pottery or books, oak, maple, and cherry are stronger options.
MDF, or Medium Density Fiberboard, is a popular choice for shelving because it is lightweight, yet strong and doesn’t require finishing – perfect for the DIYer. It is also important to consider the color of the wood.
For example, maple tends to have a warm, yellowish color while oak has a reddish hue and cherry has a deep, red brown color. Depending on the size of your project, hardwood may also be more cost effective, since you can purchase larger boards and cut them to size.
In the end, there is no one definitive wood for shelves, as it all depends on your particular situation and aesthetic taste.
Is pine strong enough for shelves?
Yes, pine is strong enough to be used for shelving. Pine is a softwood, meaning it is not as strong as hardwoods like oak, but it is still strong enough to support items on shelves. When used in shelving, it is important to consider the thickness of the board being used.
Thicker boards will be stronger and better able to support heavier items. Pine boards can also be reinforced, using angle brackets or L-brackets to mount the shelf to the wall, which will increase the amount of weight it can support.
In general, pine is an inexpensive and resilient option for shelving, making it a popular choice for many homeowners.
How do you build closet shelves to fit perfectly?
Building closet shelves to fit perfectly can be accomplished with some planning and precision. Here are the steps you should take:
1. Measure the width, depth, and height of your closet. Measure both walls and the floor to be sure you have the exact measurements.
2. Decide how much storage space you need and if you want the shelves to run the full width and/or depth of the closet. If you have multiple shorter widths, decide how many shelves you’ll need to fit your needs.
3. Shop for pre-made shelves that will fit perfectly in your closet or purchase materials to build custom shelves. For custom shelves, make sure you get enough pieces for the width, depth, and height of your closet.
4. Using a level and measuring tape, marks spots on the wall where you’ll hang the shelves. Then, use a stud finder to locate studs on the walls to provide extra support for the shelves. Once you have all the marks on the wall and all the studs located, drill holes and use brackets, screws, or nails to attach the shelves.
5. If building custom shelves, cut the wood to the desired width and depth and create the box shape. Then, use wood glue and nails to join the pieces together.
6. Finally, after everything is attached to the wall, caulk around the edges to make sure the shelves fit perfectly and to create a finished look.
How do you make a closet step by step?
Creating a closet is a great way to add storage space to any room. Depending on your needs, closets can be modified in many ways, but the basic steps to create a closet stay the same.
Step 1: Measure the space. Before you begin constructing the closet, you need to measure the space to decide what materials you will need. Be sure to measure the height, width, and length as accurately as possible.
Step 2: Buy the materials. Once you know the measurements for your closet, you can purchase the necessary materials. This will likely include wood to support the walls, drywall to finish the walls and ceiling, as well as trim and doors.
Step 3: Frame the walls. Construct walls by installing vertical pieces of wood to create a frame. Install additional wood supports in the walls to create framing for shelves and clothing rods.
Step 4: Install the drywall. Secure the drywall to the frame of the closet. Be sure to use the proper tools and hardware to ensure the drywall is securely attached.
Step 5: Paint the closet. Paint the interior and exterior of the closet according to your preference. Wait for the paint to dry before proceeding.
Step 6: Add trim. Measure and cut trim to size and install along the perimeter of the closet.
Step 7: Install the doors. Select closet doors based on your desired style and install according to manufacturer’s instructions. Adding some hinges will allow the doors to open and shut properly.
Step 8: Add organizational systems. Once the closet is complete, add organizational systems such as closet rods, shelves, and drawer sets. This will help you make the best use of the storage space.
Creating a closet is a great way to make the most of any space. Follow the steps outlined above and you’ll have your own custom closet in no time!
What to build closet shelves out of?
When it comes to building closet shelves, you want to make sure you use a material that is strong and durable. Wood is a great option since it is strong enough to hold the weight of the items you plan to store on the shelves and can be easily cut to size to fit the dimensions of your closet.
Plywood is a good option since it is affordable and provides great strength, but you can also opt for medium density fiberboard (MDF) if you are looking for something even sturdier. Other materials, such as plastic or metal, may also be used for certain projects, but they tend to be more expensive and may not provide the same level of support.
Additionally, if you don’t have the proper tools or experience to create your own shelves, it may be beneficial to look into purchasing pre-made shelves that you can then hang in your closet.
What is the material to use for shelving?
The material to use for shelving depends on a variety of factors, including the intended purpose of the shelving, the size and weight of items to be stored, and the budget. For example, lightweight items may require only minimal support, so a lightweight material such as plastic is ideal.
However, if the items stored are particularly heavy, metal shelves may be a better choice. Additionally, the appearance of the shelving can be enhanced by finishes such as wood veneers or metal plating.
Painted surfaces help protect exposed shelves from potential damage from water or other liquids, while specialized stains and sealants can help select woods resist moisture and other damage. For a budget option, particleboard and plywood can be a good choice, as long as it is covered with laminate or veneer for added protection.
No matter the material chosen, it is important to ensure that the shelving is properly installed to provide sturdiness and stability.