Is the space above your washer and dryer feeling empty and unused? Do you have extra space in your bathroom you know will fit your extra towels and soaps? If so, then you’ve probably thought of installing wire shelving. Wire shelving is a cheap and efficient way of creating shelf space in enclosed or unused spaces. It comes with all of the parts per 4 ft. section. It is easy to install and requires few skills and a very small amount effort. In no time, you’ll be able to install wire shelving like a professional.
The first thing you need to do is locate the area where your shelves will be located. Mark a level line on the wall with a small 2ft. or smaller level. You can also use a laser level if you have access to one. Along the previously marked level line, make a small mark every 12 in. from one side to the other, left to right. Use a drill and a ¼ in. bit and drill a hole through the drywall on each mark. Tap a drywall anchor into each hole with a small hammer. Using a screw gun, tighten each screw in the bracket. Be careful not to over tighten the screw. Setting your cordless screw gun to a lower number will prevent over tightening.
Now we will begin installing the wire shelving. Measure the opening of your closet. Transfer the measurement to the wire shelving and subtract ½ inch. Cut the shelving with a pair of bolt cutters or you can also use a hacksaw if bolt cutters aren’t available. Leave enough room on the end of each shelf to put an end cap on. This is usually about ½ inch. Place the plastic end caps over the freshly cut ends. Attach the back end of the shelf to the anchors by pressing down firmly on the hooks and the shelf, until it snaps in place.
Next, you will need to install the end brackets. Place a torpedo level on the top of the wire shelving. Place the end bracket against the wall and mark the holes with a pencil. This will ensure your shelf is level when you begin to drill. Remove the torpedo level from the shelf and set it aside. Drill the holes you marked using a ¼-inch drill bit. Place the drywall anchors into the hole and gently tap them in with a hammer. Tighten the Phillips head screws until they are snug. Don’t over tighten the screws or you’ll strip out the anchors.
Last, you will need to add the diagonal braces. You will need to add a diagonal brace at every other wall anchor location that you added to the shelf in the beginning. Hook the bracket onto the shelf and place the other end against the wall. Mark the holes with a pencil again. Drill the holes with the ¼-inch bit. Tap in the wall anchors and secure by tightening the screw into the anchor. Repeat this process for every diagonal brace. Now you are ready to use the shelves.
