Putting up sheves.

[Wong]

I have bought two steel slotted uprights plus brackets and would like them to support three shelves each 6'x1'. I am going to use the sheves in a study so the type of weight distribution will be variable. Is there an ideal spacing that I should go for or do I need to buy another upright? I'd rather not have to buy another one but don't want to botch it!

[sddsddean]

I would say put them about 18" from each end. This would effectively have each upright supporting half the shelf. However, I have no idea how thick the shelf is, how big the books you are going to put on etc. You will have to judge this for yourself. If you decide to buy another upright, put it in the centre and the others 12" from the end of the shelf.

[Wong]

thankyou sddsddean.

The shelves will only be Conti board or something similar - not very heavy themselves. What I was trying to do was make a decision before I drilled the holes (in my newly painted wall). If I have to add a centre support it would look a bit silly having two large overhanging ends. I used to be indecisive, now I'm not sure. Drilling will start at about 8.30pm. Anything more to add - please do

[qapmoc]

If the shelves are 6 feet long then I am sure that you will need three supports, especially if you use contiboard which is not very stiff anyway. You might get away with only two supports if you used plywood at least 1/2 inch thick.