Building Shelves Under Stairs: A Personal Experience
As a homeowner, I’m always looking for ways to maximize storage space in my house. When I realized that the area under my stairs was completely unused, I decided to take matters into my own hands and build shelves there. It wasn’t an easy project, but the end result was well worth the effort. In this article, I’ll share my experience and give you some tips on how to build shelves under stairs.
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Measure the Space
Before you start building anything, you need to measure the space under your stairs. This will help you determine how many shelves you can fit and what size they should be. Use a tape measure to get accurate measurements.
2. Plan Your Design
Once you know the measurements, you can start planning your design. Think about how many shelves you want, how deep they should be, and how much weight they need to support. Sketch out your design on paper before you start cutting any wood.
3. Cut the Wood
Using a saw, cut your wood to the appropriate size and shape. Be sure to wear safety goggles and use caution when cutting.
4. Install the Shelves
Using a level and a drill, install the shelves under the stairs. Make sure they are level and secure before putting anything on them.
5. Paint or Stain
Once the shelves are installed, you can paint or stain them to match your decor. This step is optional, but it can make a big difference in the overall look of your shelves.
Top 10 Tips and Ideas
1. Use adjustable shelving brackets to make it easier to adjust shelf heights as needed.
2. Consider adding lighting to the shelves to make them more functional.
3. Use baskets or bins to keep items organized on the shelves.
4. If you have a lot of books, consider building bookshelves under the stairs.
5. Install sliding doors or curtains to hide the shelves when not in use.
6. Use the space to store shoes and other items that tend to clutter up your entranceway.
7. Add a bench or seat under the stairs for a cozy reading nook.
8. If you have kids, consider building a playhouse or fort under the stairs.
9. Use the shelves to display art or other decorative items.
10. Build a wine rack under the stairs for a unique storage solution.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Maximizes unused space
- Provides additional storage
- Can be customized to fit your needs
- Can add value to your home
Cons:
- Can be difficult to install
- May require specialized tools
- May not be suitable for all homes
- May require permits or inspections
My Personal Review and Suggestion
I’m extremely happy with the shelves I built under my stairs. They provide a ton of extra storage space and look great in my home. However, the project was more difficult than I anticipated. It required a lot of measuring, cutting, and drilling, and I had to buy some specialized tools to get the job done. If you’re not comfortable with DIY projects, I would recommend hiring a professional to build shelves under your stairs. Overall, I think this is a great way to maximize your storage space and add value to your home.
Question & Answer / FAQs
Q: Can I build shelves under any type of stairs?
A: It depends on the type of stairs you have. If you have a traditional staircase with a landing, it may not be possible to build shelves underneath. However, if you have a straight staircase or a spiral staircase, you may be able to build shelves underneath.
Q: How much weight can the shelves support?
A: The weight capacity of your shelves will depend on the materials you use and how they are installed. Be sure to use sturdy brackets and screws to ensure that the shelves can support the weight of your items.
Q: Do I need a permit to build shelves under my stairs?
A: It depends on your local building codes. Some areas require permits or inspections for home improvement projects, while others do not. Check with your local government to see what rules apply in your area.