Top Shelf Frequently Asked Questions

If you have a particular size requirement, we will manufacture your shelves to your exact measurements.

If you can’t see the colour /décor or species you need, will we try our best to source it for you. We have hundreds of different laminates, veneers and solid woods which are available.

If you require a bespoke quote, simply email a sketch with all of your dimensions to sa***@*********co.uk- Be sure to include the number of shelves, main colour/edge colour, finishes and shipping address.

Our concealed shelf supports allow tilt adjustment during installation so the shelf can be set level. This does not mean a shelf can carry unlimited weight or remain level under every load.

The appropriate load depends on the wall, fixings, shelf dimensions and installation. Follow the installation guide, and contact us with your shelf size, wall type and intended contents if you need advice before ordering.

Yes, although there are one of two things you need to do;

1.       Locate the timer studs - You cannot install to just the plasterboard it is simply impossible even with plasterboard fixings. The shelf brackets need to be fixed straight into the timberwork. Once you have found them (usually 600mm apart as standard), let us know and we can position the brackets on the shelf to suit. We will not charge extra for this.

2.       Pre-installation work - For one reason or another you may not be able to use the timber stud work – Eg. The shelves may not reach. If this is the case you need to bridge the timber work, don’t worry we have a great step-by-step guide which shows you what to do. click here.

On a scale of 1-10 where 1 is being a complete novice and 10 is being a skilled tradesperson, we would say… 6!

We provide a simple, step-by-step installation guide with all orders. We do always suggest that you consult an experienced tradesperson first, mainly to check for hidden live wires and pipes – Better to be safe than sorry.,

The number of supports depends on the shelf length, depth and fixing system; a length-only table can be misleading.

For floating shelves ordered with concealed brackets or re-bar, supports are evenly spaced between the two outer fixing positions. Maximum centre-to-centre spacing is 600 mm for depths up to 300 mm, and 350 mm for depths of 301–600 mm, within the product’s available sizes. For example, a 1200 × 120 mm shelf uses three supports; a 1200 × 400 mm shelf uses four.

Alcove shelves use two side battens plus rear concealed brackets where needed, spaced no more than 600 mm apart using the back-wall length. Wall shelves are supplied without brackets or fixings, and selecting “No fixings required” on a floating shelf excludes them.

If your fixings must line up with studs or your project needs a different arrangement, contact us before ordering. Follow the installation guide for your fixing system and wall.

Care depends on the shelf material and finish. Use a soft cloth for routine dusting and follow the care instructions for the finish you have ordered.

Do not assume the same furniture polish or cleaner is suitable for every surface, particularly unfinished or ready-to-paint shelves. If you are unsure, contact us with your shelf material and finish before applying a product.

Yes. Our solid wood range is made from solid timber, rather than a veneered board. We use selected, kiln-dried timber.

Wood is a natural material, so colour and grain will vary. Kiln drying reduces moisture before manufacture, but timber can still respond to changes in temperature and humidity; it is not a guarantee against all movement.

Our samples can be purchased for as little as £2,00. For more information please check our samples page.

Yes - We can manufacture shelving up to 3000mm in length however our nominated delivery partner applies a surcharge of £80+VAT on any consignment over 2400mm. Please contact us for a quotation.

For shelving runs over 2400mm we also offer a jointing service free of charge if required. We will omit the edging from one side of either shelf and instead add biscuit joints. So for example a continuous run of 4200mm shelving can be achieved by ordering two lengths at 2100mm. 

Yes. Our alcove shelves slide in from the front over concealed solid-timber side battens. Each batten is 17 × 17 mm and fits into a centred groove 17.5 mm high and 20 mm deep, stopping around 5 mm from the shelf front. This construction applies across our alcove sizes, thicknesses and finishes.

The 3 mm difference between groove depth and batten width leaves material at the shelf end that can be carefully planed or sanded to suit wall irregularities. This scribing allowance is separate from the recommended 1–2 mm fitting clearance on each side. Rear concealed brackets are also supplied where required by the back-wall length.

Alcoves are often out of square. If the front opening is wider than the back, angled ends may be possible. If the front is narrower than the back, the shelf must be made square to pass through the front opening; any remaining gaps need a suitable filler or sealant. Send us your measurements and a sketch before ordering an angled shelf.

Browse alcove shelves or read the installation guide.

Please ask us to check the proposed shelf and fixing arrangement for your television before ordering. Send the TV weight and stand dimensions, shelf size and wall type so we can advise on a suitable specification.

A shelf does not prevent a television from being knocked over. Follow the television manufacturer's instructions for securing it against tipping.

The thinnest floating shelf we can manufacture is 26mm. The maximum thickness really depends on the material. Laminated and veneered shelves can be produced to whatever thick you require. Solid wood shelves are subject to availability at the time.

Yes – We supply ready to paint floating shelves in all sizes.

Yes – We can stain match our solid wood and veneered shelves to your existing furniture. We just need a sample to match to

Yes, shelving can be used in a kitchen when the material, finish and support arrangement are suitable for the location and intended contents.

Stacks of crockery can be heavy. Please contact us with the shelf dimensions, wall type and what you plan to store so we can advise on the supports and finish. Let us know if the shelf will be close to a sink or a source of heat or steam.

We recommend a fitting clearance of 1–2 mm on each side of an alcove shelf. This means allowing 2–4 mm in total across the width, rather than ordering a shelf that is a tight wall-to-wall fit.

Measure the opening where each shelf will sit, including the front and back, as the walls may not be parallel. If the shape is uneven or you are unsure which dimensions to enter, send us your measurements and a sketch before ordering so we can check the details with you.