Projects

Install an Over-the-door Décor Shelf

Project Overview

For function fanatics and small-home dwellers alike, storage is a luxury. So look up. Installing a shelf above a door in the bath to hold towels and toiletries – or in the kitchen for cookbooks or collectibles – is smart and stylish. It's a simple project that can be completed in little time. You can make it fancy as we've done, or simple with a change of bracket design.

Add edge moulding
Finishing
Installation
Caulking

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Step 1

Measure

Measure the width of the door and casing. Our shelf is made to fit a space measuring 39-1/4" to the outside of the casing.

Step 2

Cut

On your compound sliding mitre saw or table saw, cut the 1 x 10 board to length, adding the width of your brackets plus 1/8" per side. In our case the length was 41".

Step 3

Sanding and Painting

Sand the shelf and the brackets with 120-grit sandpaper. Prime and paint first coat, sanding between coats with 220-grit sandpaper. We used Behr Ultra Pure White in semi-gloss.

Step 4

Place brackets

Using a carpenter's square, measure and mark the shelf for bracket placement. Glue and clamp the brackets in place.

Step 5

Screw brackets to shelf

Countersink two #8 1-1/2" woodscrews through each side edge of shelf into brackets.

Step 6

Add edge moulding

Mitre corners of 3/4" edge moulding for sides and front of shelf. Glue and pin using 3/4" brad nails.

Step 7

Finishing

Fill holes, sand and paint shelf with final coat.

Step 8

Installation

Install shelf above door by countersinking 3 1-1/2" screws through shelf into the door casing header. Pin bracket bottoms into side casing using 1-1/4"18-gauge brad nails.

Step 9

Caulking

Caulk seam between shelf and casing and wall. We used Dap Latex Caulking. When dry, touch up paint where required.

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Project Details

Skill Level: Beginner

Time: 2 hours

Before you start, read this »

Due to differing conditions, tools, and individual skills, The Home Depot® assumes no responsibility for any damages, injuries suffered, or losses incurred as a result of attempting to replicate any of the home improvement ideas portrayed in this website Before beginning any home improvement project, review it thoroughly to ensure you or your contractor can finish the project and if any doubts or questions remain, consult local experts or authorities. Because codes and regulations vary greatly, you always should check with authorities to ensure that your project complies with all applicable local codes and regulations. Always read and observe all of the safety precautions provided by any tool or equipment manufacturer, and follow all accepted safety procedures.

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