How To Install Twin Slot Shelving

This guide will show you how to install your brackets and uprights for your new Twin Slot Shelving system, as well as how to put up a shelf. We will also show you how to install a wooden shelf. Before proceeding to read this guide, we advise that you view our technical guide for accurate measurements for your shelving.

What you will need

• Spirit level

• At least 2 x Twin Slot Shelving uprights

• At least 2 x Twin Slot Shelving brackets

• Wall anchors/plugs

• A screwdriver

If you don’t have these products, they can all be purchased on the Charles Watson website.

Step 1: Marking the uprights

Using a level, mark a vertical line for your first upright. Once this line has been drawn, hold an upright against the line and mark the fixing points.

Step 2: Installing the screws

Drill pilot holes through the marked fixing points and plug them with the appropriate wall plug. Then, screw the first upright into the wall.

Step 3: Measure and level the uprights

Hold the next upright into its desired place, ensuring that it is precisely vertical and level with the first upright. Use a spirit level for accurate levelling by holding it across the top of both the uprights. This can be seen in the image below. Once they are level, pilot drill through the top fixing of the hole and ensure that it is securely in place

Step 4: Install the second upright

Mark the other pilot holes through the second upright, and swing the upright to one side before drilling and plugging the pilot holes required.

Step 5: Ensure the uprights are installed correctly.

Allow the upright to swing back into place and ensure that it is vertical. Now, use the appropriate screws to fix it securely into place. Repeat these steps if you are installing more than two uprights.

Step 6: Slotting in the brackets

Choose where you want to place the top shelf and slot the shelf brackets into the upright. Ensure the bracket is in the same slot on each side to ensure the shelf is level

Step 7: Adding the shelves

Check that all brackets are level and place the shelf onto them.

Step 8: Securing the shelves to the brackets

Use a bradawl to bore pilot holes on the bottom of the shelf while going through the holes of the brackets. Now you can secure the shelf into place using screws, as show in the image below.

What gap do I require between each upright?

We often get asked what gap to leave between each upright and bracket to ensure that the shelving doesn't collapse or bend. This is very dependent on what shelf you are using, as well as what will be on the shelf, however as a rule of thumb we recommend that you leave a gap of 3-4ft between each upright and bracket. If after leaving this gap the shelf begins to curve, then we recommend that you install another bracket in the centre for extra support.