Unlike smaller furniture, bookcases are usually filled with heavy objects and can pose a safety risk if they fall. Attaching them to a wall is the best way to avoid accidents. All furniture should be anchored in places where children use them for support, or in areas prone to earthquakes or other natural disasters.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Anchor an Ancient Library
Step 1. Purchase a set of Velcro straps
Long screws and hooks should be included in the kit that will hold the straps securely anchored to the wall. It is not necessary to drill into the library using this method.
Step 2. Climb a ladder and, with a pencil, mark a horizontal line where the bookcase reaches the wall
Step 3. Remove the books and move the bookcase away from the wall
Use a metal detector to find the posts in the wall. If possible, find two and secure the bookcase with two straps to ensure a good seal.
- Attach the bookcase to the uprights in the wall when possible, rather than using hooks.
- It's best to dock the bookcase without the books inside, and then fill it up once you're done.
Step 4. Mark the screw locations with a pencil
Draw a vertical line. The two centers of the crosses are the points where to insert the wood screws in the wall.
Step 5. Ask someone to align the straps vertically and hold them in place
Make sure the adhesive layer is facing the wall. Detach the transparent plastic cover after you have finished drilling.
Step 6. Insert the wood screws in the center of the straps, where the screw holes are
Use a cordless drill. The number of screws may depend on the brand of Velcro straps used.
If you haven't found a pin, you will need to drill pilot holes and insert the hooks. Then, screw the wood screws directly into the hooks, where the lines meet
Step 7. Put the bookcase back in place, at the level where the screws are inserted into the wall
Remove the clear cover from the adhesive and press the strap onto the top of the bookcase. For best results, do not remove the adhesive strip when realigning everything, or it may lose its grip.
Method 2 of 2: Anchor a Bookcase with Hooks
Step 1. Remove the books
Move the library.
Step 2. Use a metal detector to locate the studs in the wall
Use a tape measure to mark the center of the riser with a vertical line.
Step 3. Move the bookcase, placing it somewhere between the two posts on the wall
If this is not possible, you can attach the hooks at the top, at a horizontal post.
Step 4. Use a ladder to access the top of the shelf
The best place to anchor a bookcase is the highest shelf, because it is the least visible.
Step 5. Insert the "L" hook so it is flush with the wall and shelf
You can also use door safety chains instead of L-hooks if you want to move the shelf regularly. Install the chain on the wall and the guide on the top of the shelf.
Step 6. Apply the L-hook to the top of the shelf with the cordless drill, using screws that go through the entire cabinet panel
Step 7. Ask a friend to keep the bookcase flush with the wall if it tilts forward
Secure the other side of the L-bracket to the wall with 7.5 cm washers and wood screws. Continue drilling until the screw head is almost level with the holder, but avoid stripping the screw.
If you can't find a post, you need to install brackets before screwing into the drywall or wall. Drill a pilot hole in the wall and push the holder into it. Then, line up the hooks and drill with 7.5cm screws
Step 8. Repeat on both sides
Insert an L-bracket between the wall and the side of your shelf where the pin is. Repeat the same procedure on both sides.
Advice
- Use Velcro strips to secure items to the shelves. Apply one of the adhesive sides to the top of the shelf and attach the other side to knick-knacks or vases.
- For metal or plastic bookcases, use 7.5 cm bolts with washers to secure the stands.
- Keep the top of the bookcase clear to reduce the risk of objects falling during an earthquake. Also, avoid stacking books so that the shelf is too heavy; this could cause the shelf to detach from the wall.
