Quck answer
Bowing bookshelves can be fixed by following these steps:
1. Remove all the books and items from the shelves to reduce the weight and pressure on the shelves.
2. Identify the cause of the bowing, which can be due to excessive weight, poor construction, or moisture damage.
3. If the bowing is caused by excessive weight, redistribute the books evenly across the shelves or consider removing some books to reduce the load.
4. If the bowing is due to poor construction, reinforce the shelves by adding additional supports or braces.
5. If the bowing is caused by moisture damage, allow the shelves to dry completely and then seal them with a waterproofing product.
6. Once the necessary repairs or adjustments have been made, carefully place the books back on the shelves, making sure not to overload them again.
By following these steps, you can successfully fix bowing bookshelves and prevent further damage.
Bookshelves can start to sag when you place more items on them than they are designed to support. This can occur due to intentional overloading or the use of weak materials in the shelves. Whether you have stand-alone bookshelves or a bookcase with multiple shelves, you can fix the sagging problem on your own. You have the option to choose between a quick fix or a more permanent solution, depending on your needs and budget.
Add Support to Stand-Alone Bookshelves
Step 1
Use a tape measure to determine the width of the shelves.
Step 2
Visit a local hardware store and purchase metal brackets for the shelves. Make sure to check the size of the brackets to ensure they do not extend beyond the edges of the shelves. Select screws that are shorter in length than the thickness of the shelves.
Step 3
Remove all items from the shelves.
Step 4
Attach a metal bracket directly in the center of the sagging area for each shelf. Typically, the brackets come with their own screws, and you can secure them using a screwdriver or a drill.
Fix for Shelves in a Bookcase – Quick Fix
Step 1
Remove all items from the sagging shelves.
Step 2
Take out the shelves from the bookcase. The shelves may be screwed in, nailed in, glued in, or resting on top of pegs. The tools required to remove the shelves will depend on how they are attached.
Step 3
Flip the shelves over and place them back in the bookcase. This will position the bow so that it is now facing upwards.
Step 4
Place all items back on the shelves. This quick fix utilizes the weight of the items to straighten the shelves.
Fix for Shelves in a Bookcase – Permanent Fix
Step 1
Use a tape measure to determine the distance between each shelf and the width of each shelf.
Step 2
Cut pieces of 3/4-inch plywood to fit between the shelves.
Step 3
Paint or stain the plywood pieces to match the bookshelves.
Step 4
Insert the pieces directly under the sagging area on each shelf. You may need to nail or glue them in place.
