
Installing shelves on the walls of the garage is an excellent way to keep items out of the way but within easy reach when needed. There are a number of options available commercially but you can also build a basic utility shelf. Remember, when buying wood, that the top and bottom sections and the two sides should be the same length. Each shelf should be 1-1/2" shorter than the top and bottom pieces.
Mark the measurements on your boards with a pencil line. Using c-clamps, attach the board to sawhorses, a sturdy table or a workbench, positioning your pencil line just off the edge. Double-check your measurements. Carefully cut the wood using a handsaw or circular saw. Sand the rough-cut edges with sandpaper.
Safety Alert!
Always take proper safety precautions when working with a saw. If you're using a circular saw, be sure to wear protective eyewear. You may also want to wear a dust mask to keep from inhaling sawdust.
Glue the ends of the two side pieces to the inside edge of the bottom piece with wood glue. Once the glue dries, attach the top piece in the same way. After gluing the unit together, use woodscrews to mount the top and bottom pieces to the sides. This will make your shelves sturdier. Mark a dot in each corner of the top and bottom pieces of wood about 1-1/2" to 2" from the top and bottom edges and about 3/8" from the outside edges. Using a drill bit that's a little smaller in diameter than your flathead wood screws, drill holes at each of the marks through the top and bottom pieces into the side pieces. Doing this before you install the screws should keep the wood from splitting. Put the screws in and tighten with a screwdriver.
Determine the placement of the shelves and, using a ruler, mark a line on each side of the unit. Screw in L-brackets so that the top of the bracket is level to the line you just drew. Use two brackets per side. Now slide the shelves in so they rest on the brackets.
Congratulations! Your garage is now orderly and organized.