Building Creative Shelving with Galvanized Pipe and Lumber

Pipe shelving is the latest hot trend for homeowners and students to create that cool industrial or Steam Punk look.  It is easy to build any shelving configuration you require with common galvanized pipe and quality hardwood boards.  Add some creativity painting the piping and staining the wood to make it look just right.

Everyone needs a place for books, house plants and photos.  We all have that special memento or art piece that we enjoy sharing with friends.  A shelf built with galvanized pipe is a great way to make your living space your own.  Have some fun by adding plumbing valves and gauges to the piping configuration to give it your own unique look!

Pipe shelving works great in bedrooms, bathrooms, and offices.  It also works well in game rooms, garages, and man caves.  There is no limit to the creative ways you can make these shelving systems work other than your imagination.

If you recently had construction or plumbing projects completed in your home, you might have galvanized pipes and lumber left over.  Recycle those extra pieces and add some spunk to an otherwise dreary space.  If you do not have these materials nearby, then you can always visit a Dixieline Lumber and Home Center location and our professionals will be happy to help get what you need.

Here, is a step by step guide for you to get started:

Materials Punch List:

• 1” hardwood boards
• ½” Diameter iron pipes
• Fittings
• Pipe Clamps
• Drill
• Sander/Sandpaper
• Circular Saw
• Stain
• Screws
• Spray Paint

Step #1: Create a Plan

Look at the space and sketch out a design that will fit properly.  Go online and search for “galvanized pipe shelves” for inspiration and to see various configurations.  Once you have a blueprint, then you can measure the length of piping and boards that you will need.  You can also figure how many elbow fittings and tee fittings are necessary.  Plus, you will need flanges so the system can attach to the wall and the boards can attach to the piping.  As you design your plan, consider where the studs are in the wall to give you target areas to place the flanges.  This will help you create your shopping list. Make sure your shopping list also includes stain, paint, sanding materials, screws, tools and a stud finder.

Step #2:  Visit Your Local Dixieline Lumber to Get Your Materials

Bring your shopping list and blueprint with you.  One of our friendly professionals will help you select all of the items on your shopping list and offer advice along the way.  There are many different types of hardwood you can choose from including ash, birch, maple, oak, poplar, teak, and pine.  You can also choose from a wide selection of stains and spray paint colors.  Did you know the pros at Dixieline Lumber can also cut your lumber to size to fit your design?  That is a big step that will save you time.

Step #3: Cut the Boards (if necessary)

If you are a true Do-It-Yourselfer and enjoy the process, then you can cut the boards yourself.  Consult your blueprint and then remeasure along the wall to confirm your design will fit properly.  Then cut the boards accordingly.  Remember, measure twice, cut once!  A circular saw from Milwaukee, Makita, Skilsaw, DeWalt or Bosch will all work great.

Step #4: Sand the Boards

Often the wood surfaces are rough and don’t give a finished look even after you paint it. Lightly sand the wooden boards with sandpaper to smooth the surface and especially the cut edges. With just a little effort, your shelves will appear as if a professional carpenter did them.

Step #5: Apply the Stain

Once the boards are cut and sanded, then apply a coat of stain.  Consider the look and feel of the room to get an idea of the coloring you want to achieve.  A product from Old Masters, MinWax or Zar will work very well.  Danish oil, boiled linseed oil or a clear acrylic finish also will look fantastic. Be sure to apply additional coats and give proper time to dry according to the instructions.

Step #6: Paint the Pipe, Fittings and Flanges

While the boards are left to dry, apply a coat of spray paint to the pipes and the pipe clamps. Your color choice can be aligned with the room’s coloring or choose a contrasting color for a burst of creativity.  Many spray paints from Rust-oleum also include textured finishes to give the piping a more realistic, industrial look.  Apply two coats to get the best coverage while doing your best to avoid painting the threads.

Step #7: Assemble the Pipes

Now the fun really starts!  Join the pipes together, matching the design you selected. Make sure they are appropriately fixed and screwed together securely.  Remember, these will be bearing weight, so they need to be put together properly. If a part seems faulty, replace it right away.

Step #8: Screw the Flanges to the Wall

Mark the places you will need to place the screws.  Reconfirm these are at the proper place for a stud.  Use a level to make sure the flanges will be placed properly so the shelving is level.  Then carefully screw the flanges to the wall.

Step #9: Attach the Boards

With the pipes assembled on the wall, lightly place the boards on the flanges and make sure they are positioned properly.  Then mark the locations you will need to screw the board to the flange.  You may want to use a small drill bit in each spot to make the screw go in easier.  Be sure to test the system by place some objects on the shelves.  Make sure the system is steady, level and will support weight.

Step #10: Decorate

Once your galvanized pipe shelving passes the test, decorate it!  Add books, artwork, plants, and other knick-knacks to personalize your space and make it feel like home.

For more information, visit one of our Dixieline Lumber and Home Centers locations and speak with the pros.  They will give you the assistance you need.  For more information, browse our website at https://www.dixieline.com/