I'm looking to install some floating shelves in my bathroom to help my cat get to her favorite spot on top of the armoire. The shelves would extend from the end of the bathtub up to the armoire, and there's no sink or any fixtures on that wall—just the tub. The sink and toilet are on the wall next to it. How can I tell if I'm going to hit a pipe while drilling?
3 Answers
The best way to avoid hitting pipes is to use a stud finder when you're drilling. It's also good to choose shelves that are at least 16 inches wide since plumbing usually won't be inside a stud. Just make sure to check it out first!
Haha, I hope they used nail guards for those pipes!
If your shelves are going up on the wall at the opposite end of the bathtub's spout, and there's nothing like a sink or toilet on that wall, then you're likely in the clear for pipes. But it's always best to double-check!

Thanks for the tip! But why does the width of the shelf matter? Just trying to understand.