Why Build the 4-Tote Shelf Overhead Rack Add-On?
Maximize vertical storage in your garage with this 4-Tote Shelf Overhead Rack Plan—a modular add-on designed to seamlessly connect and extend your existing 27-gallon tote racks. This add-on is perfect for utilizing overhead space, whether above your washer and dryer, refrigerator, or other garage furniture. Transform wasted vertical areas into efficient, accessible storage with a design that integrates smoothly into your existing shelving setup.
This add-on helps you achieve:
- Overhead Organization: Store less-frequently-used items up high, freeing up floor space.
- Custom Configuration: Extend and connect two tote racks or use it as a standalone addition.
- Versatility in Placement: Ideal for overhead storage above appliances or furniture, or as a bridge between two racks for a cohesive look.
Key Features and Specifications
- Holds 27-Gallon Totes: Designed to fit standard totes from brands like Costco, Home Depot, and Walmart.
- Sturdy and Safe: Built from durable 2×4 lumber and ½-inch plywood to ensure maximum stability, even with heavy loads.
- Beginner-Friendly Build: Easy enough for novice DIYers while delivering a professional-grade result.
- Customizable Placement: Install overhead or connect two racks together for extended functionality.
- Optimized for Space: Perfect for garages, utility rooms, or spaces with appliances needing overhead storage.
What’s Included in the DIY Plan PDF?
With this purchase, you’ll receive a detailed guide to build the 4-Tote Shelf Overhead Rack, designed to complement your tote shelving system. Here’s what’s inside:
- Step-by-Step Written Instructions
Perfect for beginners and experienced builders alike, with clear directions for assembly. - Color-Coded Diagrams
Easy-to-follow visuals showing precise placements of all components. - Tools and Materials Lists
Know exactly what you need to start, from screws to lumber and plywood. - Lumber Shopping & Cut Lists
Streamline your trip to the hardware store with pre-calculated measurements.
Why Choose This Plan?
- Practical Design: Use vertical space without sacrificing accessibility or style.
- Budget-Friendly: Build your own overhead storage at a fraction of the cost of pre-made options.
- Adaptable Applications: Whether for totes, tools, or seasonal items, this add-on fits seamlessly into any storage strategy.
Get Started Today!
Download the 4-Tote Shelf Overhead Rack Plan now and unlock the potential of your garage or utility room. This beginner-friendly project is an excellent way to make the most of vertical space while keeping your items safe and organized.
Time
(varies with experience)
Cost
{{$75}} (Excludes totes; varies by location and supplier.)
Skill level required
Beginner
DIY Garage Shelving Plan for 27-Gallon Totes
What’s Included in the PDF Download?
- Step-by-step instructions
- Detailed materials list
- Comprehensive tools list
- Links to materials and tools
Dimensions for DIY Garage Shelving Plan with 27-Gallon Totes
Tools and Materials List
Tools
- Miter Saw – For precise and square cuts; essential for accurate shelf supports.
- Screwdriver/Drill – Drives screws easily and efficiently; used in most steps.
- Drill – Needed for pre-drilling holes to prevent wood splitting.
- Countersink Drill Bit (Optional) – Allows screws to sit flush and prevents splitting for a cleaner finish.
- Stud Finder – Identifies wall studs for securely mounting the rack in Step 6.
Materials
- 3.5″ Screws – Approximately ({40 pieces}); used for structural connections.
- 2.5″ Screws – Approximately ({208 pieces}); primary fasteners throughout the build.
- Flat Corner Brace L Brackets – Total of 8; reinforces the rack at all corners in Step 5.
- Wood Glue – Provides additional strength at joints; optional but recommended.
- 2×4 L Angle Strong Ties – adds structural stability.
- ({Home Depot Totes}) – Total of ({20}); the rack is designed to accommodate these.
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Lumber Shopping & Cut List
Lumber Shopping List:
- ({21 pieces}) – ({2x4x10ft}) dimensional lumber
Cut List:
Dimensional Lumber (2x4s)
- ({10 pieces}) – ({80-11/16″}) vertical supports (green)
- ({40 pieces}) – ({28-1/4″}) shelf supports (uncolored)
- 4 pieces – ({88-3/4″}) horizontal frame pieces (blue)
Step 1: Build the Frame of the Overhead Garage Shelf
In this step, you’ll construct the frame of the overhead garage shelf (the bridge) and add plywood to create the shelf surface.
1.1: Assemble the Frame
Gather Materials:
- Lumber:
- Two 86-inch 2×4 pieces (indicated in teal in the diagrams)
- Three 27½-inch 2×4 pieces (color-coded in orange)
- Hardware:
- Screws: 3 to 3½ inches long
- Optional: Wood glue for stronger joints
- Lumber:
Lay Out the Lumber:
- Arrange the two 86-inch pieces parallel to each other.
- Place the three 27½-inch pieces perpendicular between them as shown in the diagram.
Secure the Frame:
- Optional: Apply wood glue at the joints for added strength.
- Use 3 to 3½-inch screws to fasten the pieces together at each joint.
- Tip: Pre-drill holes to prevent wood from splitting.
- Use a countersink drill bit or a regular drill bit.
- If using a regular drill bit, make sure it’s slightly smaller than the screw diameter and doesn’t drill too deep.
Sand the Frame:
- Before attaching the plywood, sand all surfaces of the frame.
- Focus on smoothing any rough edges or surfaces.
- Tip: Sanding now is easier than trying to sand corners and tight spots after assembly.
Step 2: Connect the Bridge to the Shelving Units
In this step, you’ll securely attach the bridge (overhead shelf) to the existing shelving units and the garage wall to create a sturdy, integrated structure.
2.1: Prepare the Shelving Units
- Secure Existing Shelves to the Wall:
- Use a stud finder to locate the garage wall studs behind the shelving units.
- Attach the side shelves to the wall studs using heavy-duty screws.
- Tip: Check that the shelves are level and securely anchored to prevent wobbling.
2.2: Attach the Bridge to the Shelving Units
Position the Bridge:
- Place the bridge (overhead shelf) between the side shelving units.
- Tip: Use a helper or clamps to hold the bridge in place while securing it.
Secure the Bridge to the Shelving Units:
- Use 2½-inch screws (cabinet screws or screws with large heads work best) to attach the bridge to the side shelving units.
- Drive the screws through the frame of the bridge into the side shelving units at multiple points.
- Avoid screws that are too long, as they may penetrate through the wood.
- Optional: Skip wood glue if you want to disassemble the shelves easily in the future.
- Use 2½-inch screws (cabinet screws or screws with large heads work best) to attach the bridge to the side shelving units.
2.3: Reinforce with Brackets
Add L-Shaped Brackets:
- Install L-shaped brackets (such as Simpson Strong-Tie brackets) to reinforce the connection between the bridge and the side shelves.
- Place brackets on both sides of each connection point and secure with screws.
- Install L-shaped brackets (such as Simpson Strong-Tie brackets) to reinforce the connection between the bridge and the side shelves.
Anchor to Wall Studs:
- Use a stud finder to locate studs behind the bridge.
- Attach additional L-shaped brackets to anchor the bridge directly to the wall studs for increased weight support.
