Will Lathe and Plaster Walls Hold Shelf?

If you're considering installing a shelf in your home, especially if you have plaster walls, you might be wondering whether they can hold the weight. The answer is yes, but it requires proper anchoring and installation.

IKEA Ivar bookshelves are popular choices for their affordability and ease of assembly. However, they don't provide the most robust structure, and while they won't lean or rack, they do bow slightly from side to side. To ensure stability, you'll need to anchor them properly.

In my experience with IKEA Ivar bookshelves, I found that it's essential to tighten the adjustable feet for maximum stability. Additionally, I secured each bookshelf with a piece of 1x2 lumber snugly against the ceiling. This not only adds support but also creates a visual barrier between the shelves and the wall.

If you're dealing with solid plaster walls, anchoring can be more challenging due to the lack of studs. However, there are ways to achieve a secure hold without drilling into the concrete. For instance, you can install a wall-mounted coat rack or shelf on the opposite side or hang a picture over bolts, as long as they're away from electrical or plumbing and don't exceed an inch in depth.

For plaster walls with lathe, it's crucial to find the structural element before anchoring. A series of small test holes, spaced 1/8-1/4 inches apart and about 3-5 feet from the floor, can help locate the lathe. If you hit solid plaster, a standard drill bit in a non-hammer drill should encounter decent resistance.

When deciding on anchors for your shelves, consider using molly bolts or similar products designed specifically for plaster and drywall. However, it's essential to choose the right size based on the thickness of your walls and the weight capacity you need.

In my case, I was concerned about the shelving unit's stability due to its age (80 years old) and weight (30 pounds). To ensure maximum safety, I anchored it using wood screws into the studs, although finding them in these old walls proved challenging. With irregular spacings, I had to rely on smaller anchors, but this worked well for my needs.

Ultimately, with proper anchoring and installation, your shelves can hold the weight you need, even in plaster walls. Just remember to take necessary precautions when drilling and anchor accordingly based on the type of wall you have.

Will lathe and plaster walls hold shelf