I'm looking to install some floating shelves to display books and decorative items, but I've found there's a lack of studs in the spots where I want to hang them. While I know anchors might work, I'm uncertain about which types can reliably hold weight over time. Could anyone share their insights on materials, techniques, and common mistakes to avoid?
3 Answers
Honestly, if you really want to avoid using studs, you shouldn't put shelves on drywall alone. Even with good anchors, drywall can only take so much weight, especially for floating shelves. If you can, consider adding a support brace or look into finding the studs—there should be some within 16 to 24 inches apart. Hanging without studs can be risky for something that needs to hold weight.
For heavy floating shelves, I strongly recommend using toggler anchors; they're designed for drywall and can handle a good amount of weight. Just remember, these anchors rely on the integrity of the drywall, so you should proceed with caution. It’s also a good idea to distribute the weight evenly across the shelves to avoid putting too much strain on the anchors.
Toggle anchors work well if you're set on not using studs, but remember that floating shelves can be tricky since they cannot support weight well if installed improperly. Be sure to check the load-bearing capabilities of any anchors before hanging heavy items!