How to Attach a Bookcase to an Existing Wall

One of the most common home decor items are bookshelves. These versatile, free standing units have only one flaw. If loaded improperly, or pulled or pushed on, they have a tendency to tip over. You can remedy this hazardous condition by attaching the unit to the wall. To secure your bookshelves to the wall, prevent damage to your belongings and injury to your family, you need only a few minutes, a small selection of tools and a bit of know how.

Things You'll Need

• Stud finder
• Tape measure
• Carpenter's pencil
• Bookshelves
• Drill with Phillips bit
• 3-inch drywall screws
• Leather work gloves
• Safety glasses

Instructions

1. Locate a suitable area along a wall for your bookshelves. Turn on your stud finder, and lay it against the wall near the left edge of the chosen area. Move the stud finder slowly along the wall. Make a small mark on the wall with your pencil where the light on your stud finder comes on and another where the light goes off. These marks will be 1-1/2 inches apart, signifying the edges of a wall stud. Turn off your stud finder, and store it for the next project.

2. Slide your bookshelves along the wall until the left edge of the shelves meets the mark farthest to the left. Hold a screw against the back, left corner of the inside of your shelves. Drive the screw through the bookshelves and into the wall with your drill. Run 2 screws in line with the first, through the back of the bookshelves and into the wall between each shelf in the unit.

3. Measure 16 inches from your first set of screws, and make a small mark on the back of the shelves. Make a mark at this measurement between each pair of shelves. Run a screw through the shelving unit and into the wall in a line matching the first. You now have 2 sets of screws in the wall, one in the left corner and one 16 inches in from the first.

4. Measure 16 inches from your second set of screws, and make a small mark on the back of the shelves. Make a mark at this measurement between each pair of shelves. Run a screw through the shelving unit and into the wall in a line with the second. You now have 3 sets of screws in the wall securely holding the bookshelves to the wall.

Tips & Warnings

• Drills are electrical power tools that pose many hazards. Please read and follow all the manufacturer's recommendations before and during use of power tools.

• Always wear appropriate safety equipment, such as safety glasses and leather work gloves, when using tools.

References

• Bob Vila: Helpful Carpentry Tips