- One of the main functions of shelving is storage. Shelves hold clothes, linens, tools, knickknacks, magazines and books. They are made to be strong enough to hold up heavy loads and are custom designed to fit into small areas such as under staircases and in triangular-shaped rooms. The goal is to get the most storage out of otherwise wasted space.
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Two of the most common types of shelving are wood and metal-slotted shelving. Wood shelves are made out of particle board, heavy-duty 3/4-inch plywood, hardwood, or really cheap plywood. When they are used for utility purposes like in a garage or basement, they tend to be of the cheaper grade. When they are used in living areas such as a dining room or for an armoire, a higher grade of hardwood is generally used.
Metal slotted shelving consists of vertical metal rails that are mounted to the wall with angled brackets that can be placed at different heights. The shelves are then placed on top of the brackets. These are a convenient shelving type because they are easy to adjust.
Wire shelving is another style. It consists of a heavy gauge wire that offers good ventilation and cuts down on dust and dirt accumulation. This shelving adds a lot more light to a room as well. -
Fancy bookshelves.One of the most popular types of shelving is seen in bookcases. These are usually shop-built units that are made from a hardwood like oak or cherry and are very durable. Standard bookshelves are usually rectangular in shape, but there are also some very creative designs that defy common knowledge and gravity. -
Shelves vary in size. They can be very small and specifically designed for artwork or keepsakes; they can also take up a whole length and width of a closet. These are called built-ins and are seen in linen closets.
Shelving can also be made just to hold one object, as would be the case with glass sculptures, collectible items and even speakers. They are also sometimes built into a corner of a room to give the object on top more protection. -
Other than the space saving that shelving offers, shelves also make it easier to find things. Everything is out in the open and not hidden beneath or behind something else.
Organization is another big advantage of shelving. Things can be put into an organized manner and not stacked up in piles or heaps on the floor. - When installing shelving, make sure they are mounted well to the wall. This is especially true with shelves that are going to carry heavy loads, such as containers of fluids or heavy tools like chainsaws and weed-eaters.
