How many supports do I need for garage shelves using 2x4s and either 1/2″ or 3/4″ plywood to hold totes and prevent sagging?
Asked by Orlando Fournier 
4 months ago
Last Updated: July 26, 2024
Hey, so I want to build some garage shelves similar to the ones in the first picture, with dimensions of 2 feet by 16 feet. I’m trying to figure out how many supports (like the ones circled in the second picture) I’ll need if I use either 1/2 inch plywood or 3/4 inch plywood. These shelves are going to mainly be used to store totes, so I want to make sure they’re sturdy enough to avoid any sagging. Thanks in advance for any help! Oh, and just to clarify, I’ll be using 2x4s for this project.
For the seams, you’ll need 3 pieces – one for each end and one for the middle. The main support is a 2×4 that is 16 feet long. Either 1/2 inch plywood or OSB will work well.
I did this project in my store, with 2 feet wide shelves and 2 feet of space between each shelf. I used 7/16 inch OSB and placed 2x4s every 16 inches on center, with vertical supports every 5 feet in the back and 8 feet in the front. I store a variety of items on them.
Thanks for the information. Could you explain what you mean by 2×4’s being 16” on center?
The 2×4’s are positioned at a 90° angle against the wall and are spaced 16″ apart.
In the first section I built in my shop, there are vertical supports every 5 feet in the back and 8 feet in the front.
Oh wow, really came through. Thanks a bunch!
You’re doing great as an anonymous participant.
Initially, I considered placing supports every 2 feet but was concerned it might be excessive. I’m still relatively new to woodworking and learning as I progress. Grateful for the advice in this group.
I always stick to 16″ for everything out of habit, I’ve been framing and building decks since I graduated in ’94.
Personally, I prefer having an abundance of support rather than not having enough.
It’s always best to do things right the first time, as one anonymous participant wisely pointed out.
My wife’s gym has shelves that are the same, they tend to bow slightly when dumbbells are stacked on them, but they are sturdy. Adding a vertical support might help relieve the pressure. They get the job done.
I initially planned on installing one outlet in the middle, but I might add an extra one for safety.
An anonymous participant can place the object vertically or horizontally.
Standing up
One more anonymous participant would be great. When it comes to framing lumber spans, a 2×4 is suitable for 4′-6′ and a 2×6 is suitable for 6′-8′.
It’s great to have that information.
16 inches
Thanks a lot!
If you’re not stocking the shelves with metal weights, you won’t require any. However, you may want to consider adding a vertical support every 4 feet. By using 2×4’s and 2×2’s without plywood, you can significantly cut down on material costs.
You don’t need to use as much wood as depicted here. Just opt for adjustable shelves.
I’m a fan of these. It seems like each bin can be removed individually, without disrupting the ones surrounding it. You could label each one and easily reach them.
Relies on the contents of the containers. I tend to overpack a bit.
When using 2x6s, you’ll only need supports at the seams. 7/16 OSB should do the trick.
If you’re using 1/2 inch plywood, place them 16 inches on center. For 3/4 inch plywood, go 24 inches on center
16 inches on center