Solid alcove shelves

[tdavies]

We're using lengths of solid wood as shelving in some chimney alcoves. I'd really like to put them up without any visible support but i'm having trouble working out how, considering they'll be visible from the underside too. Anyone got any ideas???

 

[colinc]

How thick are they and what sort of load are they carrying? Can you fix a small angle to the alcove sides toe up and slot the shelves to suit? Alternatively how about drilling them from the back for a threaded rod epoxied into the wall and slide them on?

Colin

 

[tdavies]

They'll be made from two lengths of 7"x2", joined with corrugated fasteners and a sunken straight bracket at each end. I'm not intending to support anything heavy but they're not exactly lightweights just on their own!
I'm thinking that because they're made from 2 pieces i should support each plank from the side?

 

[jimmylynn]

When you are joining the two boards together leave 25mm in from either side with the metal fastner. Then, router a 15mm groove in either end of the shelf starting 25mm back from the front edge, continue this groove on the back edge, thus having a 15mm groove around three sides.The groove should be about 15mm deep. Then fit a 12mm x 12mm strip around the three sides of the alcove wall. this should be bonded to the wall and screwed, ensure that you sand off all the edges of the beading, once fitted you can then slide the shelf onto the bearer. the difference of size between bead and groove is to allow for any expansion. Hope this helps. JIM

 

[tdavies]

Thanks jimmylynn, that's a great solution. I was contemplating using metal 'hook' type brackets but fitting them would have been a nightmare.