Shelf Bracket FAQ

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Shelf Bracket FAQ

We have been building our brackets/corbels since 1998 and have encountered many installation situations and related questions.

Can the average homeowner install your brackets properly to studs, cabinets or drywall?
Yes. No problem. Click here to view the instructions in a new window.

Do your brackets come with instructions and hardware?
Yes, we include the necessary hardware for attaching to wooden studs.  If mounting to drywall, we suggest our drywall installation kit. Click here to go to Drywall Kits.

Using your brackets, is it possible to make my shelves flush with my wall?
Yes, but you need to "notch" your shelves to fit around the 2" wide upper portion of our brackets. Otherwise your shelf will rest 3/4" from your wall. However, if you must have your shelves flush to your wall, you should consider using our corbels instead.

What size brackets do I need?
For shelves 7 1/2" - 9 1/2" deep we suggest the Model 8SB.  For shelves 9 1/2" - 12" deep we suggest the Model 10SB.

How many brackets do I need?
In general, you don't want to exceed 30" of unsupported length. Otherwise your shelf may sag or deflect.

How much weight can they hold?
We rate all of our brackets at 250 lbs when mounted properly and loaded uniformly.

How much weight can they hold when mounted to drywall only?
We have tested this situation and have concluded that 1/2" drywall will fail at 220 lbs. Make sure to add some drywall kits to your cart if you think you will need them. Click here to go to Drywall Kits.

Do you sell your brackets pre-stained or finished?
No. But, they are sanded and ready for stain or finish.

Should I finish/paint them before or after installation?
It will be easier to finish them prior to installation, because you eliminate the need for masking the wall. The brace (diagonal support member) may be unscrewed for ease of finishing. We advise you to number and identify matching parts for ease of assembly later.

I want to paint my brackets. What wood do I choose?
Maple, because of it's tight grain. It's the best wood in the world to paint.

Can they be used outdoors?
Yes. However, they will require a properly maintained exterior paint or finish.

Where are your corbels/ brackets manufactured?
We manufacture all of our corbels and brackets as well as our other products at our 3-person, 2500 square foot shop in Fort Collins, Colorado.