How to Strengthen a Shelf

With Metal "L" Brace

• 1

  Position the metal "L" brace beneath the shelf needing support. Metal "L" braces measure 6 to 8 inches in length and can support an entire shelf. Shelves that hang on a wall need middle supports that connect to the center of the shelf and the wall, so make sure you invert the "L," so that one edge rests upward against a shelf's underside and the other portion of the "L" brace rests flat against the wall.

• 2

  Screw the upper section of the "L" brace into the center of the shelf using the wood screws and the screwdriver.

• 3

  Screw 1/4-inch holes into the drywall using your power drill.

• 4

  Tap the drywall plug into the hole using the hammer.

• 5

  Screw the wood screw into the drywall plug using the screwdriver.

With Vertical Beam

• 6

  Measure the shelf in a bookshelf with the measuring tape. For pre-made bookshelves, you should use a vertical support beam to bolster any shelf longer than 36 inches because lightweight material will cause a long shelf to bow over time.

• 7

  Cut the 1-inch by 6-inches by 24 inches board to match the distance between the shelf you want to support and the shelf beneath it using the circular saw.

• 8

  Slide the board beneath and in the center of the shelf needing support. This board will serve as a vertical support beam between the two shelves.

• 9

  Screw the L-brackets into place using the wood screws and the screwdriver. Make sure to position them approximately two inches in from the support beams outer edges.