How to Install a White Metal Shelf

White metal shelves work well indoors or out because they provide a durable surface that withstands moisture and weathering. Metal also doesn't stain and wipes clean with a damp rag. You can't drill mounting holes through metal like you can wooden shelves. Instead of traditional bracket, use matching white brackets designed for metal or glass shelves. These brackets have a lip at the end that holds the shelf in place without the use of a screw. The support arm on these brackets must have a length that equals the shelf depth to work properly.

Hammer
Wall brackets
Pencil
Drill
Screws
Level

Instructions

- 1
  Tap the wall lightly with a hammer to locate the studs. The wall makes a solid sound when a stud is behind it and a hollow sound in the areas between studs.
- 2
  Position the first bracket against the wall, over the stud. Mark the screw holes for the bracket onto the wall with a pencil.
- 3
  Drill a ¼-inch starter hole through the wall and into the stud at each pencil mark. Replace the bracket on the wall and screw it in place, using the starter holes. The wall arm sits below the support arm, so the bracket resembles an upside-down L when installed properly.
- 4
  Place the second shelf bracket against the wall, placing it over a stud. Set a carpenter's level on top the two brackets and adjust the location of the second bracket until it is level with the first. Mark and drill the starter holes before screwing the second bracket in place.
- 5
  Set the metal shelf on top the wall brackets, centering it in place. Position the shelf so the lip at the end of the brackets holds it in place.

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Windows, Doors & Walls