Modern 2x4s are probably stronger than you think. Under optimal conditions, a single 2×4 can support about 1,000 pounds, or half a ton vertically.
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Likewise, How thick should Plywood be for garage shelves?
IMO you should get the best quality 3/4 plywood you can find (as many plys as possible) rip it to width, then glue 2 layers of that plywood together to make a 1 1/2″ thick shelf. If desired, you could cap the cut ends with solid wood.
Also, Are 2 2×4 as strong as a 4×4?
When used vertically, 4x4s are stronger than two 2x4s. However, if you need a horizontal surface, two 2x4s will be stronger than one 4×4. A 4×4 should not be used horizontally for anything structural.
Moreover, Is a 2×4 stronger on its side?
2xs are always stronger on edge, consider how a header is constructed. Obviously it’s easier to drill thru the flat side. You might consider using both flat and on edge – connected together.
Can you build a deck with 2×4 joists?
2×4 Deck Joist Can Only Span 5’8″ (1.72m) Between Supports. Either you are limited to a small deck, less than 6′ (1.8m), or you will need a mid-span beam. … Three 6×6 posts, one on each end plus at mid-span, allow you to use 2×4 joists but is still strong enough to not flex with every step.
What type of plywood should I use for garage shelves?
We use 1/2″ plywood for the 16″ width shelving – perhaps go up to 5/8″ or 3/4″ if you do 24″ wide shelving or have especially heavy loads destined for these shelves.
Is MDF good for garage shelving?
Because it’s inexpensive and fairly durable, medium density fiberboard s a good choice for practical projects like shelving and storage cabinets. … MDF is basically sawdust and glue, fused together under pressure and heat.
How deep should I build garage shelves?
For a garage, 16” depth is ideal for the storage of large items and 12” depth is ideal for smaller items. Adjustability is very important to maximize the use of space. Ideally, shelves should be 6” to 1′ off the floor to keep the items stored on them clean and dry.
How much force does it take to break a 2×4?
It would probably take over a thousand pounds to break a 2×4 in half on its short length.
Are 2 2×4 as strong as 2×6?
One of the comments: A doubled-2×4 is only half as strong in flexure as a single-2×6. Yes, a 2×4 is stroger than a 2×3 as is a 2×6 stronger than a 2×4, but using one over the other does not necessarily make the structure stronger, it just may be overkill.
Is 2 2×6 or 1 4×6 stronger?
A 4×6 joist is theoretically stronger than a doubled 2×6 joist because it’s 1/2″ thicker, but the actual strength depends upon the knots and other inherent weaknesses of any particular piece of lumber (#2 lumber can have some nasty spike knots or large not-so-tight round knots or wane).
How far can I span with a 2×4?
Generally, 2x4s can extend for up to 20 feet, but a number of issues have to be considered. For instance, the 2×4 would not noticeably sag under its weight at 10 feet.
How much weight can 2 2×4 hold horizontally?
Depending on the length of wall, a 2×4 wall could support 20,000–30,000lbs. This wall would obviously contain a lot of studs, but that is still a ton of weight.
Can I build a deck frame with 2×4?
The short answer is yes. 2x4s can work for deck joists. However, they aren’t ideal for spanning long distances without bending or breaking, so you have some limitations. Choosing 2x4s for a low-sitting deck is perfect for keeping your feet out of the mud.
How far can you span a 2×4 deck joist?
Decking Board Considerations
If you use 5/4 decking, joists must be no farther apart than 16 inches. Decking made of 2x4s or 2x6s can span up to 24 inches.
How far can you cantilever a 2×4?
The distance your joists can safely cantilever or overhang a drop beam is determined by the size of the joists, the wood type and grade of the lumber and the spacing between joists. Many building departments limit joist cantilevers to 24″ maximum.
How thick should wood be for shelves?
Thick Wood Bookshelves
Use 3/4-inch thick materials for shelves and bookcase structure. If you’re using hardwood solids, it’s OK to boost the thickness to 1 1/4 inch for almost unlimited support. This type of shelf looks more like a mantel and is expensive, but adds the opulent look of craftsmanship.
What are the 3 types of plywood?
Although specialty plywood can have any number of plies above three, most plywood is categorized as 3-ply, 5-ply or multi-ply.
- 3-ply is one of the most common types of plywood. …
- 5-ply is a versatile type of plywood that is about 4-millimeters thick. …
- Multi-ply is a catchall term for plywood with seven or more plies.
How far can a shelf span without support?
The span limit is defined as the maximum distance apart that you can place the shelving supports. Glass, particleboard, solid lumber, plywood, and other common shelving materials can have span limits that can range from 18 inches to almost 5 feet.
Can you use brad nails on MDF?
Puckers and mushrooms are less likely to occur in molding-grade MDF because the less-dense material at the site of the nail head allows for more material expansion. Slim, “needle-style” 18-gauge brad nails work best in pneumatic nailers. … You can, of course, use screws with MDF.
Is OSB strong enough for shelving?
OSB is a great sheathing material but I certainly wouldn’t use it anywhere it would be visible. Even painted, it will not be a smooth surface and it will delaminate if it gets wet. The big box plywood gets a bad rap but for shelving, if a hardwood face is attached, it will work fine.
Is MDF stronger than plywood?
MDF is ideal for cutting, machining and drilling, since it does not chip easily. On the other hand, plywood is a much more stronger material, which can be used for doors, floors, staircases and outdoor furniture.
What is a good shelf depth?
The shelves shouldn’t be too deep.
The standard depth of most shelves is 16 to 20 inches deep. The highest shelf should be shallower, like 12 inches deep, to make those items easier to access. If you find that stuff seems to get pushed to the back and forgotten about, you should consider even shallower shelves.
How wide should garage Shelving be?
Make shelves either 12″, 16″, or 24″ deep. From experience- 16″ works best. 12″ is too shallow except for the small stuff; 24″ is too deep and stuff gets lost in the back. As for hgt- I’ve taken my all the way to the ceiling- going vertical is the only choice when it comes to garage space.
