Rebuild your closet to suit your current storage needs.
Walk-in closets offer extra storage space and organization options that don't happen with traditional closets. If you find yourself wishing that the shelves in your walk-in closet were on another wall or that there was more hanging space for long clothes, consider rebuilding your closet. You may be able to reuse some of your old components or you may decide to start from scratch. Whichever you prefer, expect this project to take at least a weekend. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Empty your closet so that the only thing left in it is the existing storage system. Measure the dimensions of the closet -- length, depth and height. Transfer these measurements to the graph paper. Draw in where the door is and any windows.
2. Sketch a new layout for your closet. If you know you need more space to store folded items, set aside space for drawers or shelves. If you are trying to gain space in the bedroom, then consider integrating your current dresser or installing a new drawer unit. Once your layout is established, look at what your current system offers and what you may be able to reuse. Purchase any additional storage systems. Many home-improvement stores sell a variety of closet organizing systems.
3. Take out the unnecessary parts of your current storage system or the entire thing if everything is being replaced. Bring in the new shelving or storage units. Leave the cleats that hold solid storage units to the wall. Cleats are wooden boards that attach to the walls at the studs. If you are installing wire shelving units, the cleats are unnecessary and can be removed.
4. Set up the larger elements first. For instance, if you are putting in a floor-to-ceiling drawer-and-shelf unit, put that in place first. Measure the distance to the walls on either side so that you know you are in the right location. Attach the unit to the cleat with screws. Many closet systems have pre-drilled holes for this purpose. If your closet does not have a cleat, use the stud finder and screw into a stud.
5. Install any other larger items or end sections for shelves. The end section has pre-drilled holes for shelf pegs and is used in conjunction with other wall ends or taller shelving units. Push shelf pegs into the holes at the desired heights and place the shelves on the pegs.
6. Install the rod brackets on the sides of the shelving units, end pieces or a wall. These usually attach with screws from the kit. Hang the closet rods. Install any drawers or remaining shelves. Restock the closet with the removed items.
Tags: your closet, your current, shelving units, able reuse, current storage, pre-drilled holes, shelf pegs
