wrote in message
ups.com...
We are installing closet rods and shelves in our new closets. My
husband wants to use upside down baseboard for the support braces for
the rod and shelf. I think this would look very nice but am very
concerned if the baseboard would hold the weight of a fully loaded 4'
clothing rod and whatever one may put on the shelf above. If he is
considering using left over baseboard we have from our renovation, the
board is MDF, 3/4" at the bottom and narrows to 1/4" at the top and is
about 3" in height (so reverse that for use as a brace - meaning it
would be 1/4" at the bottom). I'm assuming he would run the two end
braces as well as a strip along the back wall to add extra support to
the shelf - possibly even run the back support the full length just so
it looks a little nicer.

I suggested we use a more dense wood in at least a 1" thickness and 3"
height. Is this overkill, or would the baseboard be fine?

Here is an idea of what I have in mind for braces:
http://www.doingitourselves.com/imag...set_braces.jpg

Any comments on if the baseboard would be enough to hold, and hold
well? Or should we be going with something more sturdy?

MDF is no good for anything structural. You are right, a good grade of 1x4
is best, suitably eased on the ends and exposed edges to present a finished
appearance. If you want to use 3/4, use hardwood. Make sure to nail or screw
into the studs. On a 4' shelf, you want to use 3/4 plywood and a full-length
back support, and preferably glued/nailed square stock for the front finish
edge, to prevent sagging. For the rod, thickwall water pipe, not the flimsy
tubing. And buy the thickest rod holders you can find, not the flimsy
stamped or plastic things.

Anyway, that is how we did it back in the old days. I have seen some of
those closets 30+ years later, and they still look fine. When I get around
to redoing the crappily done closets in this 1960 cookie cutter, that is how
I will do it.

aem sends....