Wall-mounted shelving
Shelf Installation in London
We check shelf dimensions, bracket positions and the proposed fixing surface. We level the supports, fit the shelf and check that it sits correctly on the intended supports.
Ask us about fitting shelves to a wall in your London home. Send the product details and a photo of the intended position so we can discuss the installation.
- Wall-mounted shelves
- Bracket and concealed supports
- Wall and positioning details checked
Tell us which shelf system you have
Send the retailer link or the instructions supplied with the shelf. A board on visible brackets, a floating shelf with a concealed support and a wall track with several shelf levels use different parts. If you have bought brackets separately, share both product links. Tell us the number of shelves and the length of each one.
If the order contains a pair of brackets with a board, check that all the pieces and hardware are present. Some systems supply the wall fitting separately from the shelf. If you are replacing an existing shelf, send a photo showing the old brackets and where you want the new one. The old holes may not match the new product.
This page covers wall-mounted shelves. For a freestanding unit or bookcase that arrives as a flat pack, share the unit model and ask about assembly. If the manufacturer also requires a fixing to the wall, include that in the enquiry so we can discuss the two parts of the job.
| Shelf type | What to share |
|---|---|
| Bracket shelf | Shelf length, board and bracket model. |
| Floating shelf | Model and concealed support instructions. |
| Wall track system | Track and bracket count and desired shelf heights. |
| Replacement shelf | Existing position, new shelf and a photo of the old fixings. |
Show where you want the shelves
Take a photo far enough back to show the wall and the furniture around it. Mark the intended position or describe the height and spacing. For shelves over a desk, include the desk height and what sits on it. For several shelves in an alcove, measure the width at the heights where the shelves will go and mention any trim that projects into that area.
Tell us what you expect to put on the shelves. A short display shelf, a row for books and a shelf above a work surface are used differently. Keep the manufacturer load and fitting information available. If you already know the wall type, share it with the photo. The shelf design and the surface both matter when discussing a suitable installation.
Flag anything that may affect the wall, including sockets, radiators, pipework or restrictions on drilling. If you are in rented accommodation, check with the landlord or managing agent before booking. If you are unsure whether you have permission to fix into the wall, resolve that before scheduling a visit.
- Send the product link and manufacturer fixing instructions.
- Provide a wide photo of each intended position.
- List the shelf lengths and desired heights.
- Mention any wall restrictions and what the shelves will hold.
What to have ready on the day
Keep the shelf, supports, instructions and fittings together. If the boards and brackets came from different retailers, leave the labels or paperwork with them. Tell us about any missing pieces before the visit. If the shelf is still packaged, make sure there is space to set the boards down without putting them in a walkway.
Show the assembler the wall and the position you had in mind. For a run of shelves, explain which edges or heights you want to align. If you are matching a shelf on the other side of the room, point out the existing one and tell us what matters about the arrangement. Furniture already in the room can change the practical height.
The installer needs to consider the manufacturer guidance, the wall and the positions available. If the proposed location raises a question, discuss it before the work goes ahead. Once the shelf is fitted, review its position and spacing. Follow the manufacturer guidance for loading and use.
| Preparation | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Product parts | The support and shelf must match the instructions. |
| Wall location | Photos show access and nearby obstructions. |
| Position plan | Height and spacing matter when shelves form a set. |
| Property permissions | Check restrictions on drilling before the appointment. |
Send one list for all the shelves
Give us the postcode and a list of the shelves by room. Include the lengths, support type and number of units. If some of the shelves are already fixed and you want to add more, identify which ones will stay and which ones are new. Send a photo with enough context to show windows, corners and nearby furniture.
Tell us if the shelves are going above a bed, desk or cabinet. Let us know how much clear space there is to reach the proposed position. If the location is different from the one shown in the retailer photo, send the relevant measurements. A short description with a marked picture helps us understand where the shelf should sit.
If you also need a freestanding bookcase, cabinet or desk assembled, include each item separately. Share the models so we can discuss what is involved in each part of the visit. If some pieces are still due to arrive, tell us when you expect them and which items are already at the property.
| Detail | Useful examples |
|---|---|
| Product | Shelf length, bracket type and order link. |
| Wall | Photo, known wall type and restrictions. |
| Layout | Height, spacing and nearby furniture. |
| Visit | Postcode, room and any other items to assemble. |
Review the arrangement before putting it to use
Check the layout once the installation is finished. If a shelf sits above a desk, confirm there is room for the monitor or other items you plan to keep below it. For a set, look at how the gaps work with the things you intend to store. Keep any manufacturer instructions with your household paperwork.
If the room is still being decorated, tell us before arranging the visit. Freshly painted walls, furniture waiting to go back into position and other contractors can affect access. Show us the final arrangement if you have a sketch. For a shelf intended to line up with a cabinet, confirm where the cabinet will stand and which edge you want to match.
For a second visit or additional shelves, keep the original product reference. A shelf of the same length may use a different support if bought from another range. Send the new order details alongside a photo of the existing arrangement so we can discuss the right position.
If another person will be home for the appointment, give them the photos and measurements you sent. Show them which shelves belong to each room and whether anything needs to line up with an existing surface. This helps us confirm the intended positions together before we start, particularly when several shelves look alike.
Shelf installation FAQs
For work booked alongside this service, see furniture wall fixing.
Do you fit shelves that I have already bought?
Send the product link, the supports and a photo of the wall. We can discuss the proposed fitting before booking.
Can you fit several shelves in an alcove?
Share the shelf sizes, alcove measurements and a photo. Tell us the heights and spacing you want.
Can you use holes from an old shelf?
Send a photo and the new fitting instructions. The old position and hole pattern may be different from what the new product needs.
What if I do not know the wall type?
Say so in your enquiry and send clear photos. Mention any building restrictions or landlord requirements.
How do you set several shelves to matching heights?
We agree the vertical spacing and mark the fixing positions from a common reference before levelling the brackets and shelves.
Ask about fitting your shelves
Send your postcode, product details and a photo of the proposed wall.