Cheapest Sturdy Garage Wall Shelf Over 300lb Capacity

Here is youtube video for further explanation.
The idea was to build a stronger shelf, than the standard wire shelves you can buy at the store using basic tools with a cost savings of over 50%. This shelf is not for everyone, but I have accomplished my goal. The shelf can be modified to hold more or less weight.

Step 1: Completed Shelf

Image of completed shelf

Step 2: Cost Comparison

Money saved can be used for additional tools, and the experience gained used on future projects.

Step 3: Material List

List of Materials

Step 4: Cross-sectional View of Shelf & Measurements

measurements

Step 5: Zoomed in on Important Measurement

Step 6: Build Steps

Step 7: Draw Horizontal Line Using Level at Shelf Location

Step 8: Mark Studs and Diagonal Support Locations

Draw additional line at your diagonal support locations 16-5/16" below first horizontal line your drew.

Step 9: Make All Your Wood Cuts.

Glue furring strips together, make all cuts, predrill furring strips, and set your screws protruding 1/4" from furring strip.

Step 10: Make Pilot Holes

Take furring strips w/ set screws, number them where they will go on wall. Align top of wood to horizontal line and tap with hammer to create a hole where you will pre-drill. Do this with remaining furring strips.

Step 11: Fasten All Furring Strips to Wall

Step 12: Attach Front Support Lip to Plywood

I glued,clamped, screwed, then nailed them together. Let sit for a day. Glue is optional for a bit more strength.

Step 13: Assemble Parts

Set in diagonals, they should be able to stand alone. Set top. Nail in place w/ nail gun. Add remaining screws.

Step 14: Load Test

That is 180lbs hanging from the center of the shelf. I wouldn't dare try that with a standard wire shelf.

Step 15: Almost Forgot End Supports

Clamp, nail, and screw end support pieces into place.

Comments

[DIY Hacks and How Tos]

Any idea what the ultimate load strength is.

[YeahPete]

I do not. I was originally thinking 360lbs by just doubling my weight from the single point load I put on it. But I don't think that would be safe because we would have shock loads by loading and unloading heavy items and some screws could have defects. I think 310lbs is a safe bet. I used #8 drywall screws as fasteners to the wall. We're likely be getting close to the ultimate shear strength for those screws. Using wood screws instead of drywall screws, and using 2x4's instead of furring strips would be the way to go if you wanted it to hold more weight.

[KonaGirl1961]

Why did you double the wood strips instead of just using a solid piece? Is it for stability or strength?

[YeahPete]

I don't yet have the capability of ripping a 2x4 to a 2x2. So I used furring strips. I glued the pieces together where we screw them into the wall because I didn't think a single piece has enough wood to safely hold a screw in the orientation I placed it.

[mr_marte]

Way to go! Thanks for sharing.