It feels like there are a million and one types of floating shelves out there. And companies. So when you purchase your floating shelf you want to feel confident about your ability to hang it. After all, you're not purchasing a particleboard shelf - you bought a custom wood floating shelf from NookWoodworking. So here's our easy-peasy guide on how to install floating shelves. Because really, it is that easy. But first, let's go over just why it's important to ensure your installing your floating shelves correctly.
Why It's Important to Install Large Floating Shelves Correctly
Sure, it’s obvious that you’ll want to install your floating shelves correctly. No one buys a floating shelf and thinks, “I’m going to hang this so poorly, it’ll look awful” (which, by the way, if you do - we’re totally judging you for that). But life happens and sometimes, it’s easier to install a floating shelf halfway correct, or take shortcuts to get to the end result. But here’s the thing. That’s really not in your best interest. Remember, your shelves are floating - and if you’re piling books or heavy objects on an incorrectly installed shelf? Well, that could spell big trouble. We’re talking holes in your walls, broken objects on the floor, even a hard knock on the head if your shelf is positioned above you. So for the safety of your home and self, do us a favor and install your floating shelves correctly.
Here Are the Steps to Successful Large Floating Shelf Installation
Alright let’s get into it. And don’t worry, we’ve included helpful hints and tips (and a video or two) to ensure that installation of a floating shelf is as easy as styling it. (Which, if you need help with that, we’ve got you covered!)
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
Your NookWoodworking floating shelf will come with the shelf, the invisible and super strong bracket, and screws. You’ll need to supply a drill, a level, a pencil, and a studfinder. And you’ll probably want to double check that your shelf arrived with everything you need. You know, because realizing mid-installation that you actually don’t have those screws? A disaster.
Your large floating shelf comes packaged with the bracket already inside of it. So, you’ll also need to lift the bracket out of the shelf. Sometimes this can be tricky - especially after a prolonged shipping period. But all you need to do is lift the bracket on both sides at the same time, if you’re struggling, you can pry it out with two screwdrivers.
Step 2: Figure Out Where You Want to Position Your Large Floating Shelf Bracket
So you’ve got everything. Fantastic. Now, it’s time to determine just where you want to hang your floating shelf. See, the magic behind floating shelves is simple-they float thanks to an invisible bracket that the shelf is slid on, eliminating the need for bulky brackets. And hey, while you can do this step alone, it can be helpful to have a friend.
Position your large bracket on the wall and ensure that it’s level. Draw a horizontal line at the top of the bracket and place an X at the center. This will help you center your large floating shelf later.
Step 3: Locate and Mark the Studs in Your Wall
Studs are just attractive men, they’re also vertical beams that form the framework of your wall and provide the most secure opportunity to hang things. Because of this, you’ll want to secure your heavy duty floating shelves onto these studs. But how do you find them? All you have to do is slowly drag your stud finder across your wall. Typically, the studs will be placed 16’ apart and you’ll know when you’ve hit them when your stud finder lights up or makes a sound. For maximum security we recommend ensuring that your shelf is on at least two studs. That way there are two points of added heft, allowing for peace of mind.
Hint: Don’t have a stud finder? That’s ok. Here’s how to find the studs in your wall without one!
Step 4: Align and Secure Your Bracket to the Studs
Grab your bracket again and position it against the wall, aligning it to the horizontal mark you made earlier and ensuring that the center of the bracket hits the X mark on the wall. As it turns out, X does mark the spot.
Things are about to get powered up. Starting at the bottom of the bracket where it dips, aka the hole location, place your screw against the wall. Then drill away until the screw sits snugly against the bracket. Once the bottom is screwed in, move to the top.
Hint: If your large floating shelf is being installed into a wall that’s not drywall you may need to pre-drill with a 3/32 bit. Always try to utilize about 2-4 screws per stud, especially at the top of the bracket.
Step 5: Attach the Shelf
Take a breath because the hard part is over. All you need to do now is grab your stunning shelf and slide it onto the bracket. If the shelf gives you any grief, wiggle it a little as you push forward. Then, take a step back and admire your dedication and hard work - you did it!
Hint: If the shelf isn’t level post-installation place shims (aka tiny wood pieces) behind the bracket. It’s kind of like when you sit at a rickety table at a restaurant and put a bunch of napkins under it to even out the balance.
With NookWoodworking, Large Floating Shelves Are Easy to Install
A large floating shelf shouldn’t just be functional, it should also be beautiful. And when you shop at NookWoodworking, you get the added benefit of your heavy-duty floating shelf also being easy-to-install. From oak to mahogany, invisible brackets to bracketed, floating shelves, and beyond, consider NookWoodworking your go-to store for your wood needs and home goods. Plus, with easy installation, owning a floating shelf has never been more stylish. So go on and check out our floating shelves!
