Get Organized: How to Install Garage Shelving Like a Pro
- Ken Schmidt
- May 12
- 2 min read
Is your garage more of a catch-all than a workspace or storage haven? If you’re tired of tripping over tools or spending 20 minutes looking for that one screwdriver, it’s time to reclaim your space. One of the best ways to do that? Installing garage shelving.
At Rio Verde Home Services, we help homeowners across the Verde Valley turn cluttered garages into functional, organized spaces. Here's how you can do it too.
Why Garage Shelving Works
Garage shelving is an affordable, practical way to:
Maximize vertical space
Keep floors clear
Store seasonal items, tools, and bins efficiently
Create easy access to frequently used items
Plus, it adds value to your home and makes your daily life more efficient.
What You’ll Need
Before you start installing shelves, gather the following:
Shelving brackets
Sturdy shelving boards (plywood or metal are great)
A stud finder
Level
Drill
Screws and Anchors
Tape Measure
Pencil
Step-by-Step: Installing Garage Shelving
1. Plan Your Layout
Decide what you’ll store and where. Place heavier items lower and lighter ones higher. Measure wall space to determine how many shelves you can fit safely.
2. Find the Studs
Use a stud finder to locate wall studs. This is crucial — mounting shelves into studs ensures they’ll support heavy loads without pulling out.
3. Mark and Level
Use a pencil and level to draw a straight line where each shelf will go. This will guide your bracket placement.
4. Install the Brackets
Drill the brackets into the studs along your marked line. Double-check for level after every bracket.
5. Add the Shelving
Place your boards onto the brackets and secure them with screws if the brackets allow. Make sure everything feels sturdy and balanced.
6. Load It Up (Strategically)
Use clear plastic bins, label everything, and group similar items (tools, holiday décor, sports gear, etc.). Keep daily-use items at eye level.

Pro Tips from Rio Verde Home Services
Start small. Even one or two shelves can make a huge difference.
Don’t overload. Stick to weight guidelines on brackets and shelves.
Consider adjustable shelving for long-term flexibility.
Label your bins to avoid “garage mystery boxes.”
Need Help Installing?
If you'd rather skip the drill and let a pro handle it, we’ve got you covered. At Rio Verde Home Services, we install custom garage shelving throughout Clarkdale, Cottonwood, Sedona, and the entire Verde Valley. Whether you want a simple setup or a full garage makeover, we’ll make it happen.
📍 Rio Verde Home Services
📞 928-351-7111
📍 551 S Broadway, Suite 30, Clarkdale, AZ 86324
🕗 Mon–Fri, 8 AM–5 PM
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