Introduction: 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.
6 Comments
4 years ago on Step 15
Way to go! Thanks for sharing.
Reply 1 year ago
Thanks!
4 years ago
Any idea what the ultimate load strength is.
Reply 4 years ago
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.
Question 4 years ago on Step 9
Why did you double the wood strips instead of just using a solid piece? Is it for stability or strength?
Reply 4 years ago
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.