How to Build Shelves for Your Basement
Updated: Mar. 29, 2023
Construct this simple shelving unit and get your basement organized in no time.
Time A full day
ComplexityBeginner
Cost$100 - $150
Introduction
Construct this simple shelving unit and get your basement organized in no time.Tools Required
- 1-1/2” Construction screws
- 3” Construction screws
- Table saw or Circular saw
Materials Required
- 1 – 1/2” x 4’ x 8’ plywood
- 14 - 2x4x8'
Introduction
For an unfinished basement where all you need is functional shelving, this unit works nicely. It’s sturdy, made from readily available materials and cuts up efficiently using 8-ft. 2×4’s and a 4×8 sheet of 1/2-inch plywood.
You can save a little money by buying exterior grade plywood. But I find it’s often warped in at least one direction, making it difficult to work with. I’ll gladly pay an extra $10-$15 for a flat sheet. The materials list makes one six-shelf unit.
Cutting List
Overall dimensions: 96-in. H x 51-in. W x 16-in. D
| KEY | QTY. | PART | DIMENSIONS |
| A | 12 | Long frame members | 1-1/2″ x 3-1/2″ x 48″ |
| B | 24 | Short frame members | 1-1/2″ x 3-1/2″ x 13″ |
| C | 4 | Uprights | 1-1/2″ x 3-1/2″ x 96″ |
| D | 6 | Shelf surface | 1/2″ x 48″ x 16″ |
Project step-by-step (4)
Make the Shelf Frames
Cut the long (A) and short frame members (B) to length. Assemble them as shown with three-inch construction screws. Drive two screws at each joint. Be sure to pre-drill pilot holes in the long frame members.
Attach the Shelf Frames
Attach the assembled frames to the uprights (C). I spaced my frames 14-1/2-in. apart, but you can use whatever spacing suits the items you’re storing. Fasten the frames by driving three-inch construction screws through the uprights into the shelving.
Add the Plywood
Cut the shelf surfaces (D) to final dimension. Attach the shelf surfaces to the frames with 1-1/2-in. construction screws. You can skip the screws, but I like the added rigidity. The screws also hold the plywood flat.
Fasten to the Wall
To make the unit rigid and safe, find your wall studs and drive a few three-inch construction screws through the frame and into the studs.
Originally Published: March 23, 2023
