Installing shelving in your home is a great way to add storage and organization to any space. It can help declutter a room and add an extra layer of decoration to your house. There are specific tools and supplies that you’ll need to hang the shelves correctly and safely.

Let’s look at the things you need to install new shelving in your home.

1. Brackets

Before installing your new shelves, you’ll need to get suitable shelf brackets. When choosing brackets, you should consider a few different types and materials. The most common type of bracket is an L-bracket, which is steel or aluminum and attaches to the wall on one side with two screws and supports the shelf on the other.

Corner brackets provide support in both directions, while single-sided brackets are specifically for floating shelves. The material you choose will depend largely on how much weight your shelves need to support.

2. Hardware

Once you’ve determined the type of bracket you’ll use, you’ll need to know how to choose the right shelf hardware. The type of screws and anchors you use to hang the shelves will depend on the weight capacity they need to support. For lighter items, such as books or pictures, screws will typically be sufficient.

However, stronger toggle bolts may be necessary when storing heavier items. If you install your shelves directly into drywall, you’ll want to get appropriately sized drywall anchors.

3. Tape Measure

Another tool that’s essential for any successful shelf installation is a tape measure. A tape measure will help you accurately determine the size of shelves and where to place them within a room. It can also help you double-check measurements when hanging shelves or other items to ensure they’re level and secure.

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If hanging multiple shelves, you’ll want to use your measuring tape to scale the distance between each shelf before installation.

4. Level

Next, you’ll want to use a level to determine how to mount a shelf or other item accurately and evenly in relation to the ground. A bubble level is the most common type of level and will work appropriately for a shelving project.

When held horizontally against a surface, the bubble will move around until it settles between two lines indicating that the surface is horizontal. Having a quality level handy will help ensure everything looks great once finished.

As you prepare for your project, gather these essential supplies for hanging new shelves. These tools will ensure that you have a successful installation.