Garages are often cluttered with lawnmowers, bicycles, and other assorted items. If you’re looking for a way to organize your garage and free up some space, wooden garage shelves are the perfect solution.
Not only are they sturdy and durable, but they can be modified to fit any space. This tutorial will show you how to build wooden garage shelves using just a few materials. Let’s get started!
Summary: Building wooden garage shelves is a great DIY project that can help maximize storage space while also adding a personal touch to your garage. To get started, measure the space where you want to install the shelves and purchase the necessary materials – typically plywood, 2x4s, and screws. Cut the wood to size, assemble the shelves using basic woodworking techniques, and then install them onto the walls or ceiling of your garage.
What Causes Garage Shelves to Sag?
There are a few reasons why garage shelves might sag over time. One reason is that the weight of the items on the shelves causes them to droop slowly. This is especially true if the shelves are not evenly distributed.
Another reason is that the brackets or supports that hold the shelves in place might loosen over time, causing the shelves to sag. Additionally, if the shelves are not properly secured to the wall, they might sag due to the weight of the items on them.
The other reason why garage shelves might sag is that the wood itself might be of poor quality. If the wood is not properly sealed or treated, it can warp or bend over time, causing the shelves to sag. Lastly, if the humidity in the garage is high, it can cause the wood to expand and contract, which can also lead to sagging shelves.
Why Should You Build Wooden Garage Shelves?
There are many reasons why you should build wooden garage shelves. One reason is that they are very sturdy and durable. If you build them properly, they can last for many years. Another reason is that they are very versatile. You can build them to fit any space, no matter how big or small.
Additionally, you can add shelves to the bottom of the shelves to create more storage space. If you have a lot of items that you need to store, wooden garage shelves are the perfect solution. The other reason why you should build wooden garage shelves is that they are very easy to build.
With just a few materials and some basic tools, you can build wooden garage shelves in no time. Finally, wooden garage shelves are very affordable. You can find great lumber and other materials deals if you shop around.
Tools and Materials Needed
- Tape measure
- Level
- Carpenter’s square
- Circular saw
- Power drill
- 1/8 inch drill bit
- Hammer
- Nails
- Screws
- Lumber (2x4s or 2x6s)
- Plywood (3/4 inch thick)
- Garage shelving brackets
- Paint or sealant (optional)
Step by Step How to Build Wooden Garage Shelves
1. Measure the Space
The first step is to measure the space where you want to build your shelves. Measure the width and height of the space and make sure to leave enough room for the shelves to be able to slide in and out.
Use a tape measure and level to make sure the space is level. First, find the center of the space and mark it with a pencil. If the space is not level, you can use shims to level it out. Avoid building the shelves on sloped or uneven ground.
2. Cut the Lumber
Once you have measured the space, it’s time to cut the lumber. You will need two pieces of lumber for each shelf. The first piece will be the front piece, and the second piece will be the back piece. Cut the lumber to the desired length and width.
Use a circular saw to make the cuts. Start by cutting the front piece of lumber. Next, cut the lumber to the desired length and width. Next, cut the back piece of lumber. Make sure the back piece is the same length as the front piece.
3. Drill Holes
Once you have cut the lumber, it’s time to drill holes. Drill holes every six inches along the front and back pieces of lumber. Use a power drill and a 1/8-inch drill bit to make the holes. Drill the holes about 1/2 inch deep. First, drill a hole in the top and bottom of each piece of lumber. Then, drill holes in the middle of each piece. This will create a space for the crosspieces of lumber.
4. Assemble the Frames
Once you have drilled the holes, it’s time to assemble the frames. Start by attaching the front and back pieces of lumber together with screws. Then, add the side pieces.
Make sure that the frames are flush with each other before screwing them together. If everything lines up, go ahead and screw the frames together. Avoid using nails, as they will not hold the frames together as securely.
5. Attach the Frames to the wall
Now that the frames are assembled, it’s time to attach them to the wall. You will need to use screws to do this. First, find the stud in the wall using a stud finder. Once you have found the stud, mark it with a pencil.
Then, hold the frame up to the wall and use the pencil mark to guide you as you drive in the screws. Be sure to screw the frame into the studs for added stability. Repeat this process for each of the frames. Once all of the frames are attached to the wall, you can begin adding the shelves.
6. Cut the Plywood
The next step is to cut the plywood. You will need two pieces of plywood for each shelf. Cut the plywood to the desired width and length. Use a saw to make the cuts. First, make a cut list to help you keep track of the cuts. If you are using a power saw, be sure to wear safety goggles.
7. Attach the Plywood to the Frames
Once you have cut the plywood, it’s time to attach it to the frames. Use screws to attach the plywood to the frames. Ensure the screws are long enough to go through the plywood and into the frame.
First, attach the plywood to the front of the frame. Then, attach the plywood to the back of the frame. Finally, screw the plywood to the top of the frame. Avoid over-tightening the screws, as this can cause the plywood to break.
8. Add the Shelves
Now that the plywood is attached to the frames, it’s time to add the shelves. Cut the shelves to the desired length and width. How many shelves you need will depend on how much stuff you want to store.
In most cases, 3-4 shelves should be enough. To add the shelves, first, predrill some holes into the 2x4s that will make up the shelf supports. Then, screw the shelves into place. You can use L-brackets to support the shelves further if needed.
9. Install the Brackets
The next step is to install the brackets. You will need two brackets for each shelf. To install the brackets, first, mark the desired location of the bracket on the wall. Then, using a drill, create pilot holes for the screws. Once the pilot holes are created, insert the screws and tighten them to secure the bracket in place. If desired, you can also use wall anchors.
10. Paint or Seal the Shelves (Optional)
Once the shelves are installed, you may want to paint or seal them. This is optional but will help protect the shelves from moisture. If you choose to paint the shelves, be sure to use paint made for wood use.
Apply the paint or sealant with a brush or roller. First, apply a thin layer to the shelves. Then, allow the paint or sealant to dry completely. Apply a second coat if necessary. Once the paint or sealant is dry, you can begin adding your stuff to the shelves!
11. Enjoy Your New Shelves!
You’ve now built your own wooden garage shelves! These shelves are strong and sturdy and will be able to hold just about anything you need to store. Be sure to follow the steps carefully and take your time so that your shelves turn out just how you want them. With a little bit of effort, you can have beautiful and functional shelves that will make your life a lot easier.
How Much Does It Cost to Build Wooden Garage Shelves?
The cost of building wooden garage shelves will vary depending on the materials you use and the size of the shelves. In most cases, you can build a set of shelves for around $50. To get an accurate estimate, be sure to take a trip to your local hardware store and get pricing information on the lumber, screws, brackets, and other materials you’ll need.
Of course, the cost will be higher if you hire a professional to build the shelves for you. Normally, building a set of shelves should take no more than a few hours.
Conclusion
So there you have it—a complete guide on how to build wooden garage shelves. By following the steps in this guide, you can build your own shelves in no time. Just be sure to take your time and measure twice before making any cuts. With a little bit of effort, you’ll have a beautiful and functional set of shelves that will make your life a lot easier. Thanks for reading!
