If you’re installing a heavy shelf, have a friend support the shelf while you mark the endpoints. If you’re working alone, measure the shelf’s length and then transfer the dimensions onto the wall.
Make a separate guideline for each shelf you plan on hanging.
Standard shelves usually rest on top of metal brackets or have them built in. A floating shelf has a long, horizontal bracket with pegs that the shelf slides onto. Mounting brackets typically come packaged with new shelves, but you can buy different shelf brackets to change up their look.
The wall anchor size you need depends on the weight of your shelf. Typically, wall anchors with a larger diameter can support more weight than smaller ones. Check the weight limits and restrictions on the anchor packaging so you know what size to use. Interior drywall is most commonly 1⁄2 in (1. 3 cm) thick while plaster is about 7⁄8 in (2. 2 cm). If you know the thickness, check a drill bit set for a bit that’s the same length. Keep in mind that the wall may have wires, wood framing, and other components behind it. To avoid hitting these things, drill slowly. Check the hole often and stop drilling once you’re able to see all the way through it.
Wall anchors work great for drywall and plaster walls, and they’re best if your shelves weigh 25 pounds (11 kg) or less. Check the weight limit of the anchors on the packaging before using them for your shelves since they may vary between different sizes. [7] X Expert Source Ryaan TuttleHome Improvement Specialist Expert Interview. 7 April 2021.
Use a drill to secure the anchors faster, but make sure to stop as soon as the anchors are flush so you don’t damage them or your walls.
Wall anchors often come with screws when you purchase them. The exact screw size needed depends on the anchor, but they should be roughly the same size. Many anchors use 3⁄32 in (0. 24 cm)-wide screws. Tighten the screws until you feel resistance. Be careful not to force the screws any tighter since you could strip the threads and make them difficult to remove later on.
Some shelves may have additional screws to secure them to the brackets. Check the manual that came with the shelf you bought to see if there’s any additional work you need to finish. If the shelf feels loose or sags, then it’s not secured to your wall. You may need to use a different anchor or larger screws.
Molly bolts can generally support up to 50 lb (23 kg), and they work well for both drywall and plaster walls. Compare the weight rating on the packaging to the weight of the shelf and items you’re putting on it to make sure they support the weight. Some molly bolts have a pointed tip so they’re easier to push into your wall.
Stop turning the bolts once you feel resistance. Continuing to rotate them could strip the threads or damage the wall.
Set the screws from the molly bolts in a small cup or bowl so you don’t lose them.
If the toggle bolt has metal flanges attached directly to the barrel of a screw, feed it through the shelf bracket before putting it in your wall. Once you push this style of toggle bolt through the wall, you won’t be able to remove it easily[17] X Research source Metal toggle bolts are the best choice for heavy shelves up to 50 pounds (23 kg) in drywall, plaster, and hollow-core concrete. Plastic toggle bolts work best for drywall and plaster and can support up to 25 pounds (11 kg). [18] X Research source
For a toggle bolt without plastic straps, just tighten the screw to open the flanges and secure the shelf brackets to the wall. [20] X Research source
If you’re having a hard time removing the strap, pull the ends of the strap apart. Then, push them against the wall until they crack. Otherwise, use a pair of scissors to cut them.
Make sure to insert the screws so they’re straight. If they are crooked, they won’t fit cleanly in the toggles.
If the brackets don’t feel stable, check to make sure the toggles are flush with the wall.
