Question 1

What is the basic install process?

Accepted Answer

Use the drill plate or drill guide to mark your shelf, then drill to the needed depth. For 3/4 inch tubing, we recommend a 13/16 inch bit. After that, mount the bracket and secure it to studs when possible. If you want the full step-by-step process, watch our installation videos or contact us for help.

Question 2

What size are your brackets?

Accepted Answer

We offer 9 different stocked floating shelf brackets. Please see the individual listing photos for bracket specs. Widths range from 10" - 82"; accommodating shelf sizes 12"-94" wide.

Additionally, our rods come in various depths from 3” to 16”.

Please see the tables below for bracket width and rod spacing as well as to help with what height backplate you will need (82” brackets have 7 rods, spaced 12” apart).

Question 3

How do I know what size of bracket I need?

Accepted Answer

The backplate height should be 1/2” smaller than your shelf, the length needs to be at least 2” shorter than the length of your shelf, and the rod length should be at least 1 1/2” shorter than the depth of your shelf. Keep in mind that it is always safest to choose the biggest bracket that fits within these parameters, and your rods should go at least halfway through your shelf. As always, you can contact us with any questions and we are happy to help at (208) 747-0480

Question 4

When will my order ship?

Accepted Answer

We usually ship your order within 2 to 3 business days. If you need it faster, choose expedited shipping for an extra cost.

Question 5

What does the Sheppard Keyhole system do?

Accepted Answer

The Sheppard Keyhole system gives you more flexibility during installation. You are not locked into a fixed stud pattern. You can place the shelf where you want, then mount the bracket in a way that helps you hit as many studs as possible. That makes installation easier and more secure.

Question 6

What weight can your brackets support?

Accepted Answer

Your weight capacity depends on bracket size and how many studs you hit. When you install into studs, the limits are about: 3 inch backplate, over 100 lbs per stud. 2 inch, 80 lbs per stud. 1 1/2 inch, 60 lbs per stud. 1 1/4 inch, 55 lbs per stud. 1 inch, 45 lbs per stud. 3/4 inch, 30 lbs per stud. Contact us if you need help choosing the right bracket.

Question 7

What kind and size drill bit do you recommend drilling shelves with?

Accepted Answer

For 3/4” tubing, we recommend drilling with a 13/16” bit. This can offer a tight, secure fit; but can also work well if your walls aren’t perfectly straight. If you want an even tighter fit, and are confident in your walls, feel free to go tighter.
 
We have found that different manufacturers of wood drill bits size their bits slightly different. The bit we sell on this site fits perfectly with our jigs and templates. It is a Wood Owl Ultra Smooth 13/16” diameter and comes in 12" and 18" lengths. We also sell bits 9/16” diameter for the 1/2” rods.

To purchase the drill bits you can come here. We also sell jigs for drilling your shelves. We currently send out a free drill guide (single bore) with every bracket purchase. This is a limited time offer. To see why we use the Wood Owl drill bits, please watch this instructional video.

Question 8

Do you accept returns, exchanges and cancellations?

Accepted Answer

At Sheppard Brackets, we are thrilled to offer our customers no-hassle returns and exchanges. If, for whatever reason, you are unhappy with your purchase, or if you decide to cancel your order, please contact us and we will take care of it.  We cannot accept returns or exchanges on custom orders.  If you have a return, it must be done within 30 days of purchase. With returns/exchanges, we do ask that you pay for shipping. Ship returns to 9770 Rustlers Trail,  Menan, ID 83434.

Question 9

Do you take custom bracket requests?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If you need a custom bracket or a product you do not see in our store, contact us. We welcome custom projects and can review your needs with you.

Question 10

What screws do you recommend?

Accepted Answer

-Generally we recommend #8- 2 1/2" general purpose screws or #10- 2 1/2" deck screws.
 -If you are installing into brick or cement we recommend 3/16 x 1 3/4"-2"  Tapcon screws.
-If you have metal studs we recommend Toggle bolts or some kind of expanding screw and drilling holes into the studs for them to fit.
-If you don't have a stud to attach to we recommend a Molly bolt or Toggle bolt. Something that expands behind the drywall works best.

Question 11

Bent Bracket Troubleshooting

Accepted Answer

Step 1: Set your bracket against a flat surface (like a table) and make sure that the backplate is flat. Straighten it as needed.

Step 2: Lay your bracket on its side and make sure that it is laying flat against the surface. If it's not use your drill guide and bend it back into place.

Step 3: With your backplate straightened you can now work on straightening the rods. Start by tapping them and seeing what ones make noise when tapped. Use your guide to help adjust the rods. Keep tapping until they are lying flat on the surface and making no noise. 
Here are a couple videos to help.

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