How to build a shelf in hallway cupboard?

I am a beginner and need some advice.

I need to build a 3 tier shelf system in my hallway cupboard.

It needs to be 1500 wide by 1400 tall and 400-500 deep.

It is an older house so it is all brick and rendered inside the cupboard.

The problem is that there is a big safe bolted to the floor of the cupboard, right in the middle, that is 600 tall, so I need to build around/over it, with the first shelf being just above that safe.

I just need to know the best option for a frame (e.g. do i attach each shelves supports to the wall individually, or create a complete frame and attach that to the wall), and the best materials/thicknesses for that frame as well as the shelves. 1500 seems to be an awkward size.

Thanks in advance

Mark

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Comments

EricL

Hello @summitone77

Thanks for sharing your question about building an internal shelf inside your cupboard.

If the inside walls of the cupboard are made of rendered bricks, I propose building a shelf frame made of 42 x 19mm 1.8m DAR Pine Premium - 1.8m and a shelf cover of CUSTOMwood 2400 x 1200 x 16mm Raw Standard E0 MDF. The shelf can be anchored onto the brick wall using Ramset 8 x 60mm Countersunk DynaBolt Plus Masonry Anchor.

Generally speaking, if you have a height space of 1400mm you will end up with a space of 410mm per shelf. I've placed an image below to give you an idea of how to build the shelf from scratch.

You'll need a handsaw, drill, drill bits, tape measure, pencil ruler and wood glue, sandpaper and timber clamps.

Please remember to wear personal protection such as gloves, goggles and a mask when working on your project.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric

summitone77

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/58222#Comment_58222

Thank you, this is amazing.
Can bunnings cut the customwood shelf top for me when i purchase, as I dont have the tools for that part of it.
Also do you have any tips for getting the frame into place inside the cupboard to get it level and then to be able to drill into the wall and attach? Seems potentially cumbersome to get it straight and mark the spots to drill.

Also would you use nails to attach the shelf top or screws?
thanks again

Mark

EricL

Hello @summitone77

I'm sorry the shop saw does not do precision cuts. The panel can only be cut for ease of transport. However, you can cut it with a handsaw or a circular saw. I suggest asking a family member or a friend and see if they will let you borrow the tool, or they can cut it for you. One other option is to invest in a handsaw for your tools at home.

In order to install the shelf, I propose assembling the frame first. The entire shelf can be put together using Zenith 8G x 40mm Countersunk Rib Head Chipboard Screws - 100 Pack. Once the frame is assembled, you can position it inside the pantry and use a spirit level to make sure it is straight. I recommend getting some help from a mate or family member to hold the other side of the shelf. Mark the wall with a pencil or marker and make sure it is visible. If you are using the Ramset 8 x 60mm Countersunk DynaBolt Plus Masonry Anchor. Make sure to drill pilot holes into the timber frame with the correct size on both sides and the back of the frame.

Once you've drilled the pilot holes into the frame, reposition the frame back into the pantry and mark the position of the drilled pilot holes into the wall. To drill into the brick, I suggest using a drill and a masonry drill bit the same size as the Ramset 8 x 60mm Countersunk DynaBolt Plus Masonry Anchor. Re-level the frame inside the pantry and install the Ramset Masonry Anchor. Double check that it is level.

The final piece to the puzzle! Put the MDF shelf cover on top of the newly anchored frame. Please make sure to drill pilot holes on the MDF shelf to prevent it from splitting. Please use the same screws recommended earlier. The following shelves can be installed in the same manner.

However, you do have the option of engaging the services of a handy person. Simply show them the shelf plan and they will be able to assemble and install it for you.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

summitone77

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/58265#Comment_58265

Thanks for your advice Eric

Regards

Mark

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