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	How To Choose A Shelving System

	by Roger King

Shelving provides one of the most EFFICIENT methods of maximizing storage space -- but it can be hard to find the right solution. Here are some tips for choosing the perfect shelving unit.

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

The first question to ask is "Where do I want to put my shelving?". If you are going to put it in the middle of a room as a divider, for example, then you will need a FREESTANDING unit. If you are going to put it against a wall, then you may CHOOSE to have a wall-mounted shelf that offers a bit more SUPPORT. Also, know how tall your ceiling is and if you plan to put anything on top of your shelving unit -- this will help you choose the right size.

THE RIGHT LOOK

The next question is: "How do you want your shelf to look?" Shelving can be designed to blend in with the style, character, and shape of a room, or even to function as a decorative feature. You can obtain shelves in a large range of materials -- wood, metal, composite, or glass -- to match your existing DECOR. Consider your personal STYLE when choosing the material, thicknesses, finish, shape, and design. Are you going for a utilitarian, executive, country, or modern theme?

INTENDED USE

Now ask yourself "What will it HOLD?" This is important both in terms of the design (you don't want a wire shelving unit to display fragile nick-nacks that might tip and fall) -- and in determining which unit will best support the weight of your "stuff". Be especially careful in selecting shelving for HEAVY items -- some thin metals and melamines might bow over time, and freestanding units might tip over if not attached to the wall. Always make sure that the materials you use are strong enough to bear the load.

CHOOSING A STYLE

Shelving systems VARY -- freestanding units like bookcases or open display shelves, wall shelves, even specialty shelves for corners and wall niches. You also need to decide if you want a fixed shelving unit or a MODULAR systm that can be adjusted up and down -- and even added-on-to later if you need more space. The most flexible type of shelving and one that is ideal for storing objects of various sizes, such as books, is a track system. Making a set of shelves entirely for display purposes gives the opportunity to design a tailor-made, highly decorative unit. Choose the style that best suits your needs, lifestyle, and design goals. You may need to look around at a lot of different kinds of shelving before you find just the right solution.

HANGING SHELVES

Hanging shelves can range from single wall shelves supported by fixed brackets, to fully adjustable wall units. Whether you are putting up fixed brackets or an adjustable system, make sure that you SECURE the shelf support safely to the wall, and take care to hung the shelves so that they are perfectly level. And always use hardware that suits the structure of the wall.

SECURING YOUR SHELVES

When mounting lightweight shelving on a cavity wall, use ANCHORS made of plastic or metal. Most have wings that expand against the wall within the cavity. Select the size of bit recommended by the anchor manufacturer. Mark and drill the holes. Insert an anchor, and drive home the screws. You can also use bolts with spring clips, is available for securing screws or a bracket to cavity walls. Of course, the simplest shelf supports are non-adjustable TRACK system that distribute the weight over a larger area.

Roger King has been occupied in home repairs for several years, and has been helping people with tips and advice to simple repairs to their homes. Visit his web site at www.allhomerepairsyourself.com.

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