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Quick & Easy Shed Shelf Idea

bad_idea

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Jun 11, 2011
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4,332
Location
Pasquotank, NC
I have a shed that is 8' wide. I would like to build some shelves across the 8' width. I am thinking a 2x4 nailed to the studs on the wall and then another nailed between the next studs (around 16") out from that wall. Any idea what the weight load of each shelf would be? Looking to store gardening stuff and kid toys. Would a 2x2 work in place of the 2x4?
 
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jonshonda

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Jul 17, 2017
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Location
Wisconsin
I would brace the end of the shelf that is not supported, then you could pretty much have a worry free shelf for years to come. Otherwise the unsupported end will sag
 

fourbyford

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Aug 3, 2017
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913
Location
North Idaho... almost Canada!
If you're asking the question, you must be somewhat concerned about overloading the shelf...
Considering 8' 2x4's sell for less than 3 bucks each, I would nail (or screw) a 2x4 across the back wall... and one 16" out attached to the studs on each side (if heavily loaded, you may consider a "jack stud under each end of this crossmember to support the load) and call it a day.
Cost... less than 6 bucks... peace of mind = priceless
...D
 
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audioworks04

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Joined
Oct 6, 2015
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141
Location
Olathe KS
a 16in x 8ft shelf built out of 2x4 material should have no problem spanning the 8ft width with 500+lbs. I would use screws rather than nails to help keep from rotating, but either should be fine. I have 2x4 shelves built 2ft deep x 8ft and 1/2" plywood. long with well over 500lbs on them and no concerns.
 

fourbyford

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Aug 3, 2017
Messages
913
Location
North Idaho... almost Canada!
The difference in "height" between a 2x4 and a 2x2 is 1 3/4 inches... to me, that seems insignificant as well considering the increased weight carrying capability of the 2x4... which seemed to be your initial question
 

SportFury59

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Joined
Feb 14, 2009
Messages
131
Location
Wisconsin - Wausau Area
Another way to do it is using Wiremaid shelving. It comes in various lengths and widths. Attach the back of it to the studs with pipe clamps. An 8' piece, maybe use 4 clamps. Attach the front of it with "adequate" chain attached to ceiling joists. 3 or 4 pieces or as many as you deem necessary. Take a 1/2" or even 1/4" piece of plywood or OSB and lay it on top for a smooth surface. You could have, say, 3 shelves on that wall, all hanging/attached to the chain. Now you have "foldable" shelves. If you want you can fold up the bottom 2 if need arises and use the top shelf

This is what I have in my 10'x12' greenhouse. In the spring all 3 shelves are down and ready for use. And they see a lot of weight. Right now in the late fall I have the 2 bottom ones folded up and seasonal items stored against wall and on the top shelf.

The trick is to attach the shelves in the rear with pipe clamps, so they can be swung up out of the way. If that doesn't matter, then attach them to a horizontal 2x4 in the rear, but using chains in the front is a cheap, simple way for support.
 
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