How to Install Your Shelf Angle Bracket
Steven TinesModels: JLH-516, 516W, 517, 519, 519W, 520, 590CH, 591, 592CH, 593
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Download Full Installation PDF (Detailed)
Why We Use the Solid Wood Angle Bracket: Many first-time installers mistake these brackets for simple decorative reasons. However, in the John Louis Home system, the Solid Wood Angle Bracket is the structural support for what we call "free-floating" applications.
These curved wood supports are designed to transfer the heavy load of solid wood shelving directly into the back wall. This is the specific hardware you need if you are building an open pantry, a laundry room shelf, or a standalone display where side walls simply don't exist. This is exactly why they are a standard component in our versatile Solid Wood Shelf Kits, making it easy for you to bring organization throughout your entire home.
View Guide: Shelf Kit Installation
Before You Start
Before you drill, ensure you have the correct components.
Parts Checklist
- Solid Wood Angle Brackets: (2)
- #8 3-inch Screws: (2)
- Mushroom Caps: (2)
- Wall Anchors: Use only if studs are unavailable.
Required Tools
- Level
- Pencil
- Power Drill
- Stud Finder (Recommended)
Step-by-Step Walkthrough Installation
1. Position & Align (The "Slat Count" Method)
If you are adding to an existing closet organizeror shelf kit, you don't need a tape measure to find your spacing. Simply count the desired slats from the shelf ends to ensure your brackets are symmetrical. Place the bracket against the wall and tuck it tightly under the front rail of the shelf. Installer Tip: Apply upward pressure on the bracket against the shelf bottom. It must be flush with both the wall AND the shelf rail for a secure fit.
2. Mark Your Anchor Point
Holding the bracket steady with one hand, insert the long #8 3-inch screw into the pre-drilled hole. Drive it into the wall just enough to pierce the drywall or mark the stud, then stop. You aren't installing it yet—you are just marking the exact center point.
Step 3: Anchors vs. Studs
Remove the bracket and check your mark. If you hit a stud: Perfect. You have the strongest possible connection. Skip to Step 4. If you hit drywall: You must use the provided wall anchor. Drill a pilot hole at your mark and secure the anchor in until it sits flush with the wall surface.
Expert's Tip: Do not overtighten the anchor too much. If you crush the drywall around the hole, the anchor will spin loosely and lose its holding power.
4. Attach Bracket. The "Rotate" Technique
This is the trick to a perfect install. Insert the tip of your 3-inch screw into the anchor (or stud hole) while the bracket is tilted downwards. Once the screw tip catches, rotate the bracket up into its vertical position. This ensures the screw enters straight and pulls the bracket tight against the wall.
5. Insert Mushroom Caps
With the screw driven fully home, the bracket should be secure. To finish the look, press the Mushroom Cap into the screw hole. It’s a small detail, but it hides the fastener and gives that seamless, solid-wood appearance that John Louis Home is known for.
Need Assistance? Our US-based experts can troubleshoot with you. Call 1.800.480.6985 or email [email protected].
Design Beyond the Closet
Because these angle brackets eliminate the need for side walls, they unlock "open concept" storage potential in your home. We've seen customers use these to build beautiful open pantries, heavy-duty laundry storage, and even living room display shelves, all maintaining that consistent Red Mahogany or Honey Maple finish found in their closets. You can find the ALL individual components you need below.
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