Install Kitchen Pantry Shelves
Hardware stores and home stores carry coated metal shelving in kits or individual pieces. This type of shelving is ideal for pantries because it doesn't warp and is easy to clean. Options include pull-out shelves or specialty bins for spices or small items. Costs can range from less than $100 to several hundred dollars, depending on the features you choose, the size of your pantry and the vendor. Shelves at specialty closet stores typically cost more than those found at hardware stores.
Instructions
1
Draw out a plan for your pantry shelves. Consider how many shelves you want and what you hope to store. Plan on at least 6 inches between shelves for storing canned goods, 12 inches or more for storing dry goods.
2
Measure the length needed for each shelf. Take off 3/4 inch if the shelf touches the wall on one end, and 1 1/2 inches if the shelf is between two walls. Many home stores will cut the shelving to size for you if you bring along your measurements. If you have a standard size pantry, you may find pre-assembled kit that works in your space.
3
Measure and mark the position of each shelf on the wall. Measure from the floor with a tape measure to the desired height of the first shelf. Make two or three marks on the wall, spaced 18 inches apart. Align a yardstick or board over the marks. Place a level on top of the yardstick and make adjustments so the yardstick sits level. Draw a line on the wall with a pencil to indicate where the shelves should go. Repeat for each shelf.
4
Mark the positions of the clips. If the shelves will touch the walls, mark the line 2 1/2 inches from the wall; otherwise, mark the line 1 inch from the end of the shelf. Make coordinating marks 12 inches apart between the two marks on either end. Measure 5/8 inch above each mark and put an "X." Drill a screw in each mark.
5
Position a clip into the hole and tap it gently with the handle of a hammer. Fasten it with a fastening pin. Attach the shelves, starting from the top and working to the bottom. Place one end of the shelf on a clip and snap it in with both hands. Continue working to snap the shelf into all the clips. Ask a partner to lift the shelves while you clip. Place end caps over the ends of the shelves to avoid scratches and snags.
6
Install end brackets for shelves that touch the wall. Place an end bracket in place underneath the shelf at each end. Mark the correct location for the screws with a pencil. Move the shelf out of the way and drill a 1/4-inch hole. Insert a plastic anchor into the hole. Place the end bracket in the correct position and install a screw into the plastic anchor to secure the end bracket. Place the shelf in its final position.
