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.
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Likewise, How much weight can a 2×4 shelf hold?
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.
Also, Which plywood is best 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.
Moreover, 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.
What plywood should I use for shelves?
First and foremost, the wood you use for making bookshelves will impact the design as well as the cost of your project. ¾-inch plywood is considered the industry standard, thanks to it being strong yet inexpensive—especially when compared with some solid woods.
How much weight can a 2×4 stud wall support?
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 a 2×4 span 10 feet?
Can a 2×4 span 10 feet? 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.
Are two 2×4 stronger than one 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. Always be sure that you’re using the proper size and strength of lumber.
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 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.
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 plywood good for making shelves?
Plywood is the industry standard for shelving, so it’s a good choice for bookshelves. However, there are a number of sturdy woods with which you can construct bookshelves.
What is the best material to use for pantry shelves?
Plywood is the go-to material for shelves—edges can be finished with iron-on veneer banding or wood trim—but other materials can work, too (if you’re careful; see below). If you hate looking at stuff, install cabinets. If dust is the issue, not clutter, opt for uppers with traditional glass fronts.
Can a 2×4 wall support a second story?
I’d definitely feel much better about doing it if it had 2×6 studs, but can 2x4s support a second story? Yes..the are millions of two story homes with 2×4 walls on the first floor. That is never an issue even if you use 2×6 walls for the second floor…non issue.
What weight can a stud wall support?
Studs are boards that are used in the framing elements of your home and support the walls. When hanging items on a stud, a screw in the stud can support between 80 and 100 lbs. An entire stud wall could support 20,000-30,000 lbs depending on its length.
How much weight can a screw hold in a stud?
A screw in a stud can hold between 80 and 100 pounds. Be sure to distribute the weight across as many as you can. The easiest way to increase the amount of weight a screw in a stud can hold is to simply double up. If you have room for a second or a third screw, just add more.
Can a 2×4 span 12 feet?
Can a 2×4 span 12 feet? Yes 12 ft. is to long for a 2×4.
How far can a 2×4 truss span without support?
The greater the potential for a heavy snow load, the stronger your truss will need to be. For instance, if you live up north with a snow load of 55 pounds per square foot, then a 4/12 common truss using all 2×4 lumber can span up to 41′.
Are two 2×4 as strong as a 2×8?
Your statement about 2- 2×4 not being as strong as one 2×8 or one 2×10 is technically correct because the height is different for each one (not apples to apples). Referring to the code tables is a little misleading. Double stacked beams (not glued together) each carry half the load.
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.
What glue works best on MDF?
Most PVA wood glues, plastic resins, and epoxies will do an excellent job of adhering MDF to MDF or even MDF to wood. But when it comes to adhering MDF to another surface (such as drywall), an all-purpose epoxy or plastic resin is the best way to go.
Should you screw or nail MDF?
Because MDF is more dense than most woods, manufacturers recommend only the highest quality tools be used to machine it. MDF panels hold screws as well as most natural woods, but drill a pilot hole first. You also can join this wood composite with spiral grooved dowels, coated staples, and ring shank nails.
Can you use a brad nailer on melamine?
The melamine finish is slippery, making it difficult to hold the panels in alignment while you drill pilot holes for the screws. Solve this problem by first pinning the panels together using an 18 gauge brad nail gun.
