Guides

INSTALLATION HELP

It’s ideal to install corbels and brackets into studs, however it is not always possible.  If you will not hit a stud during installation please use the proper drywall anchor.  To help the process, we’ve included our favorite anchors for purchase under Accessories. 

Each anchor has it’s own weight restrictions, please read product description to better understand weight limits. 

What you’ll need for installation:

  • Level
  • Measuring tape 
  • Electric drill with Phillips head bit
  • Phillips head screwdriver
  • Pencil
  • Screws, long & short (included with every bracket)
  • 1/8” drill bit

Optional: masking tape to visualize shelf placement and keep brackets level during installation

CORBEL, L & J BRACKET INSTALLATION: 

  • Pick the spot for your first shelf. You might place a piece of masking tape on the wall to help visualize placement before committing to your shelf’s permanent location.
  • If you are going to anchor your shelves into studs, locate studs and mark them on your tape.
  • Place the bracket against the wall along with your level, check that the bracket is perfectly level, and mark screw holes with a pencil. We recommend placing L brackets no more than 24” apart on the wall to ensure proper support for your shelving. 
  • Remove the masking tape now, if you used it to mark your shelf location.
  • Install the brackets using the longer screws (2 1/2” long) provided

Studs: We recommend using a power drill.

Drywall: Use any drywall anchor of your choice and follow manufacturer’s installation recommendations.

  • Measure distance to your next bracket location, repeat steps above. 
  • Anchor your shelf to the brackets: 
  • Place your shelf on the brackets, make sure the overhang is even on both sides, and mark holes on the bottom of the wood shelf for the small screws (3/4” long), provided.

It’s helpful to pre-drill with a 1/8” drill bit, making sure you don’t go all the way through the shelf.  Pre-drilling is recommended, especially for hardwoods.

Place shelf back on brackets and install screws. 

FARMHOUSE BRACKET INSTALLATION:

  • Place the bracket against the wall in your desired location, using a level to ensure that it’s perfectly straight as you take the next steps. If you are going to anchor your shelves into studs, consider this when choosing your location.

  • Mark screw holes with a pencil. As a general rule, if not hitting a stud, use one anchor per foot.  For the longer brackets, not every hole needs a screw.  We drill extra holes to increase your chances of hitting a stud. 

  • Install the bracket using the longer screws (2 1/2” long) provided

Studs: We recommend using a power drill to drill into the stud and attach screws.

Drywall: Use any drywall anchor of your choice and follow manufacturer’s installation recommendations.

  • Anchor your shelf to the brackets.

Place your shelf on the brackets, make sure the overhang is even on both sides, and mark holes on the bottom of the wood shelf for the small screws (3/4” long), provided.

It’s helpful to pre-drill with a 1/8” drill bit, making sure you don’t go all the way through the shelf.  Pre-drilling is recommended, especially for hardwoods.

Place shelf back on bracket and install screws. 

MOUNTING TO HARD SURFACES:

Tile/Backsplash – Use a masonry drill bit and anchors rated for tile. (Check with your local hardware store. We do not stock masonry bits and screws.)

Concrete/Brick/Mortar – Use masonry drill bit and masonry screws of your choice. (Check with your local hardware store. We do not stock masonry bits and screws.)

LUMBER DIMENSIONS:

When choosing a bracket, it’s important to know that finished lumber doesn’t actually match the dimensions listed in its name. When wood is first cut, it measures it’s “nominal” size, for example; 2” x 4”. The drying process causes it to shrink, just like jeans in the dryer.  So, a 2” x 4” actually measures 1 1/2” x 3 1/2”, its “actual” size.  Keep this in mind when you purchase brackets and shelves. 

Also, note that reclaimed wood, special order wood, and live edge shelving often measures is nominal size. If you aren’t sure what to order or what you’ll receive from us, please ask!