On Mar 31, 6:34 pm, wrote:
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?

The MDF in that use _should_ hold the shelf. I assume you are
planning to put "U" cutouts in to hold up the rod. That would be
dubious in MDF.

I agree that the use of molding like that will result in a very nice
application. I may use it myself in the future but I will be using
real wood molding. For the amount needed (about 6') the cost is
minimal.

Someone else mentioned it but it bears repeating. Use iron water pipe
for the rod, forget wood poles.

Also reinforce the front edge of your shelf with a vertical strip of
wood glued and nailed. Someone else also mentioned that.

Harry K