How to Install the Backing Plate for Storage Shelves

Make your mark on your home by hanging your own custom shelves. A very important part of building shelves is to install the backing plate for sturdiness and extra strength. A well-installed backing plate gives you extra piece-of-mind when you display your books or valuables on your new shelves.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Pencil
• Level
• 2-by-4 inch boards
• 3-inch deck screws
• Drill

1. Choose the room and wall where you want to build your new shelving unit.

2. Mark the level for each new shelf. This is where you must install the backing plate.

3. Draw a light line across the wall where each new shelf will hang. Use a level to make sure your line is straight.

4. Cut a 2-by-4 inch board to the appropriate size and line it up along one of your level-lines.

5. Screw in one 3-inch deck screw, using a drill, at each end of the 2-by-4-inch board. Insert your screws into studs. Using studs to support your shelves allows the final project to hold heavier items. Do not allow it to go through to the other side of the wood.

6. Repeat Steps 4 and 5 along each of your level-lines. Once you finish, you will have the backing plate installed for each of your shelves.

Tips & Warnings

• Fir and pine wood work best for this type of project. Plywood or particleboard are good to use as well.