Adjustable shelves allow the space under or over them to be varied in height. In this way, buyers can create more of a custom storage system. An adjustable shelf may be made of wood, metal or particle board. The colors and weight allowances vary depending on the storage unit type. Adjustable shelves can be found in many kitchen cupboards as well as freestanding bookcases and wall shelving systems.
Typically, a bookcase with one or more shelves that can be adjusted also has ones that are stationary. A bookcase adjustable shelf is often located near the center of the unit rather than right at the top or bottom, but this varies. In most of these types of bookcases, there are small holes drilled on either side of the unit to allow the shelf to be raised or lowered at least one level. Small pegs or rods often fit into the holes as well as under each shelf. Bookcase adjustable shelves aren’t usually that sturdy or stable, so these tend to be best for storing lighter items.
Many kitchen cupboards feature vertical rows of drilled holes down each side to allow all of the shelves to be adjusted. Larger metal or plastic clips placed near each shelf corner often make the shelves strong enough to hold a heavy stack of plates or a cupboard full of glasses. Having each shelf adjustable in a kitchen cupboard turns it into much more efficient storage, as it cuts down on wasted space. Adjustable shelves can often be placed just over dishes or foods rather than having large amounts of wasted space on top of them.
Adjustable wall shelving is different from those in kitchen cupboards and freestanding bookcases. Wall-mounted adjustable shelving systems tend to attach to metal tracks that run vertically. The tracks are spaced far enough apart to allow each adjustable shelf to fasten onto it securely. Metal brackets or braces typically connect adjustable shelves onto the tracks, but sometimes a pipe-shaped attachment may be used as part of the design.
An adjustable shelf system with tracks may take up an entire wall. Many of these systems are made more attractive by giving owners the option of alternating each shelf to create a broken rather than straight-lined pattern. These types of adjustable shelves can create a decorative look on a wall while also providing a great deal of storage space for books, plants and accent or art pieces.