Install Built-In Shelves in a Closet or Alcove

Create Efficient Storage Space or a Display Shelf for Collectibles

Feb 4, 2009
Kelly Smith

Built-In Closet Shelf - Kelly Smith

Storage space in closets and alcoves is always at a premium. Racks work well but sometimes a built-in shelf or two makes better sense for things like cleaning supplies.

Other situations lend themselves to this solution as well. For example, collectibles can be displayed on tempered glass shelves in an alcove. Storing sports equipment or seasonal clothing can be stored on sturdy wood shelving in a closet.

The key to this home organizing approach is taking advantage of three walls for support and not sacrificing the valuable floor space that standing wire racks depend on.

Tools and Materials

Electric drill
Electronic stud finder
2' level or laser level
Tape measure
Circular saw
Sliding bevel
Coarse thread drywall screws
1” X 2” boards
Shelving board or glass

Install the Rear Shelf Cleat

What are cleats? These are usually 1” X 2” (2.54 cm X 5.08 cm) boards that are installed horizontally that provide support for the glass, wire, or wood shelves. There will be three of them, one spanning the rear wall and one on either side wall.

First, decide on the height that works best in the situation. Keep in mind the thickness of the shelf itself because the usable horizontal surface will be that much higher than the top of the cleat.
Measure the length of the rear wall and cut a cleat to span it.
Put the cleat in place and hold the level under it. Adjust the cleat until level and draw a reference pencil line on the wall along the top edge of the cleat.
Set the cleat aside and use the stud finder to locate the wall studs.
Mark the center of the studs just above the level reference line.
Put the cleat against the wall again and mark it where the center of the studs are.
Drill a pilot hole through the center of the cleat where each stud center is.
Use a screwdriver or the drill with a #2 Phillips bit to attach the cleat to the wall with drywall screws.

Install the Side Cleats

Cut the two side cleats to a length 1/2” (1.27 cm) shorter than the distance from the face of the rear cleat to the edge of the side wall.
Optionally, miter the front edge of the cleat 45 degrees from top to bottom. This will offer full support on the top but will make the cleat less visible. This is just aesthetic touch.
Level, locate the studs, drill the pilot holes, and install the side wall cleats.

Install the Shelf

Inside drywall corners in residential wood framing are rarely square. With this in mind, check the two corners at the top of the cleats using the sliding bevel. With any luck, it won't be too bad and the shelf can be cut square. Any small gaps can be covered up using paintable caulk.

If not, use the angle found with the sliding bevel to get the angle on the shelf cut. Cut the shelf and install it. In some cases, it can just be set in place. Otherwise, drill a couple of pilot holes on each side and attach it with screws.