How to Build Basement Storage Ceiling Shelves

Basement storage is a perfect solution when needing to store things in a temperature controlled area. Finished basements are often used for other things as well, making basement storage space rather limited. You can, however, change this by utilizing the ceiling as added basement storage. The article that follows will show you how to make hanging shelves from your basement ceiling.

Step 1 - Cutting the Wood

Using the ceiling as added basement storage requires a strong wood that will hold up under many conditions. Put a 2x4 on your work surface and use the tape measure to find the length of the board. Make a mark at the center of the board with a pencil. Cut along the line. You want to have two pieces of wood that are each 48 inches in length. These will be your crosspieces. You now need to make the support beams for the hanging basement storage. Cut another 2x4 into four even pieces. These will act as the vertical supports for the basement ceiling shelves. You can adjust the length of the vertical supports based on the height of your ceiling and how far you want the storage shelves to hang down. Now, measure and cut the 1x10 plank into four pieces, each 52 inches in length.

Step 2 - Assembling the Basement Storage Shelves

With your pieces of wood cut you can now start to build the actual basement storage shelves. Start by placing the crosspieces you cut onto your work surface. The vertical supports are what will be holding the general weight that you place on the shelf. Place one vertical support flush against an end of the crosspiece at a 90-degree angle and nail it in place. Repeat with the other end and another vertical support. When you are finished you will have two basement storage shelf assemblies. You can create as many of these as you need. If you plan on storing heavier objects like tools or large toys, consider using screws instead of nails and installing metal corner brackets for added strength.

Step 3 - Attaching the Basement Storage Shelves to the Ceiling

Determine where you want to place your hanging basement storage shelves. Nail one in place attached to two ceiling joists. Use the tape measure to determine 48 inches from the first storage shelf and make a mark. Install the second hanging shelf at this mark so that they are 48 inches apart. To finish off the basement storage shelves you'll slide the four pieces of 1x10 planks into the hanging assemblies parallel to each other. If you plan on accessing the things you store on these shelves on a regular basis they need to be secured. Nail each of the four planks in place.