Attic Storage Ideas - Wall Shelving

If storage is a problem in your household, utilizing attic storage space is a sensible solution. Attic architecture varies in terms of the space available and the pitch of the roof, offering many interesting options for wall storage.

Examine Space Available

One of the first steps is to measure the space available so as to be able to calculate how to best go about it. The walls may vary in length and layout, especially in attics. There may be sloping areas, gable walls and places where the roof is slightly lower.

Decide on the Material

You will need to decide what type of material to use for your shelves. Several options are available, including wood (including plywood), metal and plastic. You will need to consider how much you wish to spend, whether you are going to build the shelves yourself, or have them made by a carpenter. To maximize storage availability it is best to avoid buying ready-made shelves, since they would be of fixed dimensions and would  most probably waste part of the available wall space.

Consider What You Will Be Storing

You need to give some thought to what you will be storing away on these shelves. In such a way you will manage to make some adjustments from the start to the space required between one shelf and another when they are fixed to the wall for example.

Oddly shaped walls

In attics some walls are not regularly shaped due to sloping areas. This is referred to as a gable wall, which is basically when you end up with a triangular shaped wall. Such spaces are not to be underestimated because you can still use them for storing effectively. Shelves can be customized according to the dimensions and shape of these spaces.

Type of Shelves and Their Layout

Shelves can be customized according to the shape and length of the attic walls. This is possible if you tailor make according to your dimensions. However, should you wish to buy them ready made from a hardware store there is the option to purchase shelf units which can then be assembled according to your space availability. If you make them yourself or ask a carpenter for help, you will ultimately use space better. There is also the possibility to fix hooks to walls if you wish to hang up certain items. In attics there may be a rafter, which gives you the option of installing suspended shelves.

Wall storage is convenient because it helps to maximize storage space. Besides, you would also be allowing floor space to be available for easy entry, moving about and to ultimately store away other items on the floor beneath the shelves as well.