Put up shelves
Save £50–80 in 1 hour — no carpenter needed
Most people call a carpenter for this. You probably don't need to.
Last updated: February 2025
Only basic tools needed — most homes already have them.
Before you start
This guide covers fitting a floating shelf or bracket-mounted shelf on a solid or plasterboard wall.
Before drilling, use a pipe and cable detector to check for hidden pipes and wires. You need a drill, spirit level, tape measure, pencil, and the fixings supplied with your shelf.
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Tools & materials
- !Power drill with masonry and wood bits— buy or borrow if you don't have one
- !Pipe and cable detector— buy — 15, essential before drilling
- ✓Spirit level— borrow from a neighbour if needed
- ✓Tape measure and pencil— standard household items
- ✓Screwdriver— standard household tool
Want everything in one go?
Prices shown on retailer sites. Always check current pricing before purchasing.
Mark the shelf position
Hold the shelf bracket against the wall at the desired height. Use a spirit level to ensure it is perfectly horizontal. Mark the bracket screw holes lightly with a pencil.
Most people get this done in under 5 minutes.
Where beginners go wrong
Using standard wall plugs in plasterboard — they will pull straight out under load. Always use cavity anchors for hollow walls.
Not checking with a spirit level — a shelf that looks level to the eye is often several millimetres off.
Overloading a shelf fixed only into plasterboard — keep heavy items on shelves anchored into masonry or timber studs.
Stop and call a professional if...
Your detector shows cables directly behind every possible fixing position
The drill produces sparks or the wall material is unexpected
You need to support very heavy loads such as a full bookcase — consider a specialist wall anchor assessment
Cost breakdown
Recommended starter kit
Five tools that cover most home repairs.
- →Adjustable spannerAmazon·Screwfix
- →Screwdriver setAmazon·Screwfix
- →PTFE tapeAmazon·Screwfix
- →Spirit levelAmazon·Screwfix
- →Tape measureAmazon·Screwfix
Want everything in one go? Get it on Amazon
What you just learned
You now understand wall types, how to choose the right fixing, and how to use a spirit level accurately. These skills transfer directly to fitting curtain poles, mounting a TV, and hanging heavy pictures.
Most people would pay a tradesperson for this.
⚠️ Watch out if you rent
Always get written permission from your landlord before drilling into walls. Some allow it, others don't. Without permission you could lose part of your deposit.
How long will this actually take me?
First time
1.5–2 hours
With experience
45 mins
Finding studs or drilling into masonry takes longest for a first-timer — don't rush the measuring.