Alternative Shelves for Plaster Walls

Built-In Shelves

• Built-in shelves are typically installed in narrow areas or alcoves where they can be attached to two opposing walls and practically use space that is frequently overlooked. The shelves can be uniform in width and depth or include varying sizes, as long as all the shelves are the same length. You can build them from ceiling to floor or leave room beneath the bottom shelf for a chair or table. Since built-in shelves can’t be moved, carefully consider their configuration before installing them.

Adjustable Shelves

• If you need shelves that can be placed at varying heights, adjustable shelves are the most practical option. Adjustable shelves are attached to two or three vertical rails secured to the wall, with three being used for extra long shelves that need additional support. Metal shelf brackets that match the width of the shelves are securely inserted into slots on the rails and the shelves laid on top of them. Various manufacturers made unique brackets and rails that typically don’t support each other in design, so buy extra materials if you anticipate adding more shelves to the unit.

Fixed Bracket Shelving

• The brackets for fixed bracket shelves attach directly to the wall without the aid of vertical rails. This design creates a more finished look and the brackets come in a wide range of styles and colors that complement many decorating schemes and add character to the display. The longer side of the L-shaped brackets attaches to the wall and the shorter side supports the shelf, which typically extends an inch or so beyond the length of the supporting bracket. Short fixed bracket shelves are easier to install by first attaching the shelf to the bracket. Longer shelves benefit from being laid over the brackets after they are attached to the wall.

Fastener Options

• Plaster cannot support any type of shelving unit by itself. For best results, attach the supports or brackets to studs in the wall, which can be located behind the plaster and drywall with a stud finder. If the shelves are too short to use studs for support and will not have heavy items placed on them, use screws and bolts long enough to penetrate the sheetrock behind the plaster. For shelves that need to hold heavy books or decorative items, molly bolts, toggles and plastic or metal anchors are dependable fasteners that expand on the opposite side of the drywall and lock into place when they are inserted from the wall’s surface. These fasteners are the strongest and most dependable options to attach shelves and brackets to plaster walls.