Wood Shelves: Types, Durability & Aesthetics

Shelves exhibit variations in their construction, utilizing materials ranging from solid wood, known for its robustness and natural grain, to cost-effective alternatives like plywood that offer stability. Softwood species, such as pine, present a lighter and more affordable option, which complements the sturdier hardwood choices including oak, celebrated for its durability and aesthetic appeal in shelving units. Furthermore, the selection of a specific wood type will influence the shelf’s load-bearing capacity, visual appeal, and suitability for different environments.

Ever tried to build a shelf that ended up looking like it was auditioning for a sagging contest? Yeah, we’ve all been there. Choosing the right wood for your shelves isn’t just about grabbing the cheapest plank you can find at the local hardware store; it’s about setting the stage for a functional, beautiful, and long-lasting addition to your space. Think of your shelves as the silent heroes of your home, holding everything from your prized book collection to your slightly excessive collection of rubber ducks.

The wood you choose plays a major role in how your shelves look, how much weight they can handle, and frankly, how long they’ll stick around before giving up the ghost. Imagine building a gorgeous bookshelf only to have it buckle under the weight of your encyclopedias – not a pretty sight, or a cheap fix!

That’s why we’re diving deep into the world of wood, demystifying the choices, and handing you the knowledge you need to make informed decisions. Consider this your ultimate guide to selecting the perfect wood for your shelves, ensuring they look great, work hard, and stand the test of time. Get ready to become a shelf-selection superstar!

Contents

Understanding Softwood Options for Shelving

So, you’re thinking about building some shelves, huh? Excellent! Let’s dive into the world of softwoods. Think of softwoods as the approachable, budget-friendly members of the lumber family. They’re generally easier to find and won’t break the bank, which is always a win.

But, like that quirky friend who’s always up for anything but maybe not the most reliable, softwoods have their pros and cons when it comes to shelving. On the upside, they’re often a breeze to work with – cutting, drilling, and nailing are usually straightforward. Plus, that price tag can be mighty tempting! However, keep in mind that “soft” is in the name for a reason. These woods are more susceptible to dents and scratches than their hardwood cousins, so think carefully about what kind of load they will have to bare.

Pine: The Versatile Choice

Ah, pine – the chameleon of the softwood world! It’s incredibly common, so finding it is a piece of cake. Pine is used in everything from furniture to construction, and is fairly strong for it’s density.

Let’s zoom in on some popular subtypes:

Radiata Pine: A fast-growing and readily available type, often used in construction and furniture.
Eastern White Pine: Known for its stability and ease of working, making it a favorite for intricate projects.
Southern Yellow Pine: Stronger and denser than other pines, making it suitable for structural applications.

The Good: Pine is affordable, easy to cut and shape, and takes paint and stain well. Perfect if you’re new to woodworking or on a tight budget!

The Not-So-Good: Pine is relatively soft, making it prone to dings and scratches. It also tends to have knots, which can affect its structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.

Fir: Lightweight and Stable

Fir is like that reliable friend who always keeps their cool. It’s known for its stability and straight grain, making it a solid choice for shelving. Douglas Fir and Balsam Fir are two of the most common varieties.

The Good: Fir is stable, resists warping, and has a clean, uniform appearance. Ideal for shelves that need to stay straight and true.

The Not-So-Good: Fir isn’t as hard-wearing as some other options, so it may not be the best choice for heavy-duty shelves or high-traffic areas.

Spruce: The Budget-Friendly Option

If you’re looking to save some serious cash, spruce is your go-to. It’s one of the most affordable softwoods on the market, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious projects.

The Good: Spruce is cheap and cheerful, making it a great option for basic shelving needs.

The Not-So-Good: Spruce is relatively soft and not as strong as other softwoods, so it’s best suited for light loads. It can also be prone to splitting, so handle with care.

Cedar: The Aromatic Choice for Closets

Now, let’s talk about cedar. This wood isn’t just about looks; it’s also got a secret weapon: its amazing scent! Cedar is naturally insect-repellent, making it perfect for closet shelving where you want to keep those pesky moths away from your favorite sweaters.

The Good: Cedar smells fantastic, repels insects, and has a beautiful reddish hue. Great for closets and other storage areas where you want to keep things fresh and bug-free.

The Not-So-Good: Cedar can be a bit more expensive than other softwoods, and it’s also relatively soft, so it may not be the best choice for heavy loads or high-traffic areas.

Exploring Hardwood for Strong and Beautiful Shelves

So, you’re thinking about shelving? Excellent choice! Now, let’s talk about the rockstars of the wood world: hardwoods. Think of them as the seasoned professionals, the ones who’ve been around the block and aren’t afraid of a little heavy lifting. Hardwoods are generally denser, more durable, and, let’s be honest, often just plain better-looking than their softwood counterparts.

But, (and there’s always a but, isn’t there?) they come with a price tag. Think of it as an investment. Like a good pair of shoes, quality hardwoods will last longer and look better doing it.

Pros of Hardwood Shelves:

Durability: These shelves are built to last. Think heirloom quality.
Aesthetics: Hardwoods often boast richer colors and more interesting grain patterns.
Strength: They can handle heavier loads without sagging.
Adds Value: Can add real value to your home!

Cons of Hardwood Shelves:

Cost: Hardwoods are typically more expensive than softwoods or engineered wood.
Weight: They can be heavier, making installation a bit more challenging.
Working with Hardwood: Can be harder to cut, drill, and sand.

Ready to dive into some specific options? Let’s check out some of the main choices when going with hardwood shelves:

Oak: The Classic Choice for Strength

Oak! It’s like the little black dress of the wood world – always in style and endlessly versatile. You’ve got two main types: Red Oak and White Oak.

Red Oak: Slightly more porous and has a reddish hue (obviously!).
White Oak: Denser, more water-resistant, and has a more subdued color.

Advantages of Oak Shelves:

Incredible strength: Can support significant weight.
Excellent durability: Resists wear and tear like a champ.
Attractive grain: Adds a touch of timeless elegance.

Disadvantages of Oak Shelves:

Higher cost: Expect to pay a premium for this classic choice.
Heavier weight: Can make installation trickier.
Open grain: Requires more coats of finish to achieve a smooth surface.

Best Uses for Oak Shelving:

Bookcases: Ideal for holding heavy books.
Pantries: Can handle the weight of canned goods and other kitchen staples.
Display shelves: Adds a touch of sophistication to your décor.

Maple: The Smooth and Stiff Option

Maple is the smooth operator of the hardwood world. Known for its fine grain, smooth surface, and exceptional stiffness, maple shelves are a great choice for those who want a clean, modern look.

There are also two main types: Hard Maple and Soft Maple

Hard Maple: (also known as sugar maple) incredibly dense and durable.
Soft Maple: (which isn’t really all that soft) is a bit more workable and affordable.

Advantages of Maple Shelves:

Exceptional stiffness: Resists sagging under load.
Smooth surface: Perfect for painting or staining.
Consistent grain: Creates a clean, modern look.
Paintable: Great if you’re planning to paint.

Disadvantages of Maple Shelves:

Higher cost: Similar to oak, maple comes at a premium.
Can be prone to staining: Requires careful sanding and finishing to prevent blotchiness.
Grain pattern: Isn’t always super exciting.

Best Uses for Maple Shelving:

Kitchen cabinets: Provides a clean, durable surface.
Workshop shelving: Can handle heavy tools and equipment.
Children’s rooms: Its smooth surface is easy to clean and maintain.

Birch: The Affordable Hardwood

Think of Birch as the smart shopper’s hardwood. While it might not have the prestige of oak or maple, birch offers a great balance of affordability and performance. Plus, it paints up like a dream.

Advantages of Birch Shelves:

Affordable: More budget-friendly than oak or maple.
Paintable: Takes paint beautifully, allowing you to customize the look.
Easy to work with: Cuts and sands easily.

Disadvantages of Birch Shelves:

Less interesting grain: Grain pattern can be a bit plain.
Not as durable: Not as resistant to wear and tear as oak or maple.
Can be prone to dents: Softer than other hardwoods.

Best Uses for Birch Shelving:

Closet shelving: Great for organizing clothes and accessories.
Garage shelving: Good for storing lighter items.
Shelving in low-traffic areas: Perfect for areas where durability isn’t a major concern.

Cherry: The Elegant Choice with Beautiful Grain

If you’re looking for shelving with serious wow factor, look no further than cherry. With its rich color, smooth texture, and distinctive grain pattern, cherry shelves are a true statement piece.

Advantages of Cherry Shelves:

Beautiful grain pattern: Adds a touch of elegance to any room.
Rich color: Develops a warm, reddish-brown hue over time.
Smooth texture: Feels luxurious to the touch.

Disadvantages of Cherry Shelves:

High cost: Cherry is one of the most expensive hardwoods.
Can darken over time: Its color will change with exposure to light.
Softer than oak or maple: More prone to scratches and dents.

Best Uses for Cherry Shelving:

Living room display shelves: Showcases your favorite items in style.
Home office shelving: Adds a touch of sophistication to your workspace.
Shelving in formal dining rooms: Creates a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Engineered Wood: The Secret Weapon for Budget-Friendly & Functional Shelves

Okay, so you’re not swimming in cash but still dream of stylish, functional shelves? Enter the world of engineered wood! Think of it as the superhero alter ego of traditional lumber. It’s not “real” wood in the same sense as a majestic oak, but it offers a fantastic balance of cost, performance, and even environmental friendliness. Let’s break down what this engineered wood is all about. Basically, it’s made by binding together wood strands, fibers, or veneers with adhesives to create composite materials. This allows us to design materials with specific properties and sizes, opening up a world of possibilities!

Plywood: The OG Engineered Champion

Ever seen those sheets of wood with layers peeking out from the sides? That’s plywood, baby! It’s basically a sandwich of wood veneers glued together with the grain running in alternating directions. This crisscross pattern is the secret sauce, giving plywood incredible strength and stability that rivals even some solid woods.

Pros: Plywood is a champion of strength for its weight, remarkably stiff, and won’t break the bank. It comes in a variety of thicknesses and grades, making it suitable for heavy-duty shelving projects.
Cons: Those edges aren’t always the prettiest, requiring edge banding or clever design tricks. Cheaper plywood can also have internal voids or inconsistencies.
Best Use: Garages, workshops, or anywhere you need serious support without emptying your wallet.

MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard): The Smooth Operator

Imagine a sheet of wood so smooth, it’s practically begging for a coat of paint. That’s MDF! Made from wood fibers glued together under pressure, MDF is known for its consistent density and lack of grain, making it the perfect canvas for painting or laminating.

Pros: MDF offers a flawless, smooth surface for painting or applying veneers. It’s also incredibly cost-effective, making it ideal for budget-conscious projects.
Cons: Moisture is MDF’s Kryptonite. It swells and warps easily if exposed to humidity. It’s also heavier than plywood and doesn’t hold screws as well.
Best Use: Shelves in living rooms, bedrooms, or other dry areas where a flawless painted finish is desired.

Particleboard: The Budget King

If you are really on a budget, particleboard is the answer. Particleboard is constructed from wood chips and resin that is pressed together, and it stands as a testament to affordability. While not boasting the robust qualities of its engineered wood counterparts, particleboard is incredibly easy on the wallet.

Pros: There is no material that can beat particleboard in terms of cost-effectiveness.
Cons: However, particleboard‘s disadvantages are noteworthy; it has a high susceptibility to moisture, which can cause swelling and disintegration, and it offers low strength, making it unsuitable for heavy loads. Its use is best confined to light-duty applications in dry environments.
Best Use: Light-duty shelving in dry environments.

Key Properties to Consider When Choosing Shelf Wood

Alright, so you’re diving into the wonderful world of shelving, huh? That’s fantastic! But hold your horses (or your shelf brackets) for a sec. Before you go all in, let’s chat about why understanding wood properties is like having a secret weapon in your shelving arsenal.

Think of it this way: You wouldn’t build a house on a foundation of sand, right? Same goes for shelves. The wood you choose matters. It’s not just about looks (although aesthetics are important, no doubt!). It’s about making sure your shelves can handle their job, stay looking good for years to come, and not end up as a warped, saggy mess. So, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of what to look for in your potential shelving lumber.

Strength: Supporting the Load

This one’s a no-brainer, right? You want shelves that can, you know, actually hold stuff! We’re talking about load-bearing capacity, folks. Imagine stacking your prized collection of vintage encyclopedias (or, more realistically, your ever-growing pile of books you swear you’ll read someday) on a shelf made of balsa wood. Disaster!

Different woods have different strength levels. Oak and maple are the heavy lifters, while pine and spruce might be better suited for lighter loads. Think carefully about what you’re planning to store before making your final decision.

Stiffness: Resisting Bending

Ever seen a shelf with a serious case of the sags? Not a good look, and definitely not ideal for keeping your belongings safe. Stiffness is what prevents your shelves from turning into a sad, downward-sloping roller coaster.

Stiffer woods, like maple, resist bending much better than softer options. This is especially crucial for longer shelves that need to span a greater distance between supports.

Density: Impact on Weight and Stability

Density is all about how much “stuff” is packed into the wood. A denser wood is typically heavier, which can impact both the weight of the shelf itself and its overall stability.

Heavyweight champions like oak offer rock-solid stability but can be a pain to lug around during installation. Lighter options, like pine, are easier to handle but might not be as stable for heavier items. It’s all about finding the right balance for your needs.

Durability: Resisting Wear and Tear

Shelves take a beating. Between clumsy hands, accidental bumps, and the occasional dust bunny invasion, they need to be able to stand up to the rigors of daily life. Durability is the name of the game here.

Some woods are naturally more resistant to wear, scratches, and decay than others. Cherry and some of the denser hardwoods are great choices for high-traffic areas where durability is paramount.

Finishing: Achieving the Desired Look

Okay, aesthetics do matter! The finish you apply to your shelves can completely transform their look, from rustic to modern, and everything in between. But not all woods are created equal when it comes to accepting finishes.

Some woods take paint and stain like a dream, while others can be a bit more finicky. Maple, with its smooth, even grain, is a fantastic choice for painting, while woods like cherry offer a naturally beautiful grain that shines with a clear sealant. Do your homework and choose a wood that plays nicely with your desired finish.

Warping/Cupping: Preventing Deformation

Warping and cupping are the arch-nemeses of shelving. These nasty deformations can turn your once-pristine shelves into twisted, uneven monstrosities.

Factors like moisture exposure and improper drying can contribute to warping and cupping. Preventative measures, such as proper sealing and choosing kiln-dried wood, are key to keeping your shelves straight and true.

Cost: Balancing Quality and Budget

Let’s be real, budget is always a consideration. You want the best shelves possible, but you don’t want to break the bank in the process.

Different wood types come with different price tags. Oak and cherry are generally more expensive than pine or spruce. Don’t be afraid to explore more affordable options or consider using engineered wood like plywood or MDF to save some cash without sacrificing too much quality.

Shelf Design Considerations: It’s More Than Just Sticking a Board on the Wall!

So, you’ve picked out your dream wood, ready to build some shelves? Awesome! But hold on a sec, before you grab that hammer and nails, let’s talk design. Because honestly, slapping a piece of wood between two supports isn’t always the best way to go. The right design isn’t just about looks; it’s about making sure your shelves can actually hold your prized collection of porcelain cats (or whatever you’re into!). We’re diving into the nitty-gritty of making shelves that are both functional and fabulous.

Span: How Far Can You Go? (Without Sagging)

Ever seen a shelf that looks like it’s about to give up and touch the floor in the middle? That’s a span issue! The span is the distance between your shelf supports. Longer span = more potential for sagging. The key here is understanding how different woods and shelf thicknesses handle weight over a distance.

Think about your wood: Softer woods like pine need closer supports than hardwoods like oak. Imagine a flimsy bridge vs. a sturdy one – same principle!
Thickness matters: A thick shelf can handle a longer span than a thin one. It’s just common sense, right?
General Guidelines: For pine, consider supports every 24-30 inches. For oak, you might stretch that to 36-48 inches. But, always err on the side of caution! We’ll get into calculating specific load capacities soon.

Load Capacity: How Much Weight Can it Handle? (Without Crashing)

This is where we get a little science-y, but don’t worry, we’ll keep it simple. Load capacity is the maximum weight your shelf can hold without failing (i.e., breaking or sagging excessively). It depends on a few factors.

Wood Type: Each wood has a different strength rating. Oak and maple can handle more weight than pine or fir.
Shelf Thickness: Thicker shelves can support more weight.
Span: Shorter spans mean higher load capacities.
Simple Formula (Use with Caution!): Okay, here’s a super simplified guideline to get you started:
- Load Capacity ≈ (Wood Strength Factor x Shelf Thickness^2) / Span
  - Wood Strength Factor: (This is a simplified value and varies significantly – research specific values for your wood species!) Use 1 for Pine, 1.5 for Fir, 2.5 for Maple, and 3 for Oak as a starting point. Always confirm with reliable source.
  - Shelf Thickness: In inches.
  - Span: In inches.
- IMPORTANT: This is a general guideline only. Always overestimate and test your shelves with more weight than you expect to use.
Pro-Tip: Overestimate! It’s better to have a shelf that can hold a ton than one that collapses under a stack of books.

Aesthetics: Make it Match (Your Style, That Is!)

Now for the fun part! Your shelves should not only be strong but also look good doing it. Think about how the wood complements your room’s décor.

Warm vs. Cool Tones: Cherry, walnut, and some types of pine have warm tones that work well in cozy spaces. Maple and birch offer cooler, more neutral tones perfect for modern rooms.
Grain Pattern: Oak has a prominent grain that adds character. Maple has a smoother, more subtle grain. Think about what look you’re going for.
Stain or Paint? Consider how the wood takes stain or paint. Some woods, like pine, might need a sealer before staining. MDF is fantastic for painting.
Examples:
- Rustic: Knotty pine with a dark stain.
- Modern: Maple or birch with a clear finish or painted white.
- Elegant: Cherry with a glossy finish.

Shelf Thickness: Finding the Sweet Spot (Between Style and Strength)

Shelf thickness is the Goldilocks of shelf design – you want it just right! Too thin, and your shelf will sag. Too thick, and it might look clunky.

Light Loads (books, decorative items): 3/4 inch thick shelves are usually sufficient.
Medium Loads (cookbooks, heavier objects): 1-inch to 1 1/4 inch thick shelves are a good bet.
Heavy Loads (serious book collections, appliances): 1 1/2 inches or thicker might be necessary.
Wood Matters: Remember that softer woods might need to be thicker than hardwoods for the same load.

Edge Treatment: The Finishing Touch (That Makes a Difference)

Edge treatment is often overlooked, but it can significantly impact the appearance and durability of your shelves.

Rounded Edges: Soften the look and are safer (less sharp corners).
Beveled Edges: Add a subtle, angled detail.
Bullnose Edges: A more pronounced rounded edge.
Square Edges: Clean and modern, but can be prone to chipping.
Consider Durability: Rounded edges are generally more resistant to chipping and wear.

Support Systems: Choosing the Right Brackets (For the Job)

Your brackets are the unsung heroes of your shelving system. They need to be strong enough to support the weight and match your aesthetic.

Types of Brackets:
- Metal Brackets: Strong and versatile, come in various styles.
- Floating Shelf Brackets: Hidden brackets that create a clean, modern look.
- Decorative Brackets: Add a touch of style and personality.
Load Capacity: Check the load capacity of the brackets and make sure it exceeds the expected weight on your shelf.
Placement: Position brackets strategically to support the shelf effectively. Consider placing them closer to the ends and at regular intervals along the span. For a floating shelf, remember the weight capacities are lower. Use a stud finder to fix into wall studs for maximum support.

By carefully considering these design elements – the span, the load, the looks, the thickness, and the support – you’ll be well on your way to creating shelves that are as functional as they are beautiful! So take a few extra minutes to plan, and your shelves will thank you for years to come.

Common Wood Defects: Spotting Trouble Before It Shelves You!

Alright, so you’ve picked out your dream wood – maybe it’s a rustic pine, a classy oak, or even a budget-friendly MDF. But hold your horses (or heavy books) before you start assembling! Wood, being a natural material, sometimes comes with its own little quirks, aka defects. Ignoring these can lead to shelves that sag, crack, or even give way entirely. Let’s dive into the most common culprits so you can be a wood defect detective!

Knots: Love ‘Em or Leave ‘Em?

Knots are those roundish, darker spots where a branch once grew. Now, some folks find them charming and rustic – adding character to the wood. And that’s fine! But from a strength perspective, knots are weak points. Imagine it like this: the wood grain has to bend around the knot. If you’re planning on loading your shelves with heavy stuff, those knots could become stress points, leading to cracks or even shelf failure, especially if they are loose or on the edge of your shelf.

Assessing Knot Severity: Small, tight knots surrounded by straight grain aren’t usually a big deal. Large, loose knots that are cracked or have missing pieces are a red flag. Avoid using wood with these types of knots for weight-bearing shelves. For decorative shelves, it’s more of a visual preference. If you still want the look of knots, consider filling in the defect by using wood filler to help stabilize the aesthetic without compromising too much support strength!

Warping: When Wood Gets the Bends

Warping is when your once-straight board decides to take on a life of its own, bending, twisting, or cupping. This is usually due to uneven drying or moisture exposure. Imagine one side of the board drying faster than the other – it shrinks more, causing the whole thing to contort. Warping can make it impossible to create a level and stable shelf, no matter how hard you try.

Causes and Prevention:
- Uneven Drying: Always store wood flat and allow it to acclimate to the humidity of your workspace before using it.
- Moisture Exposure: Seal your shelves with a good finish to prevent moisture from penetrating the wood.
- Proper Sealing: Be sure to seal the wood to a level of at least 2 to 3 coats on each side.

Decay: The Silent Shelf Killer

Decay is what happens when fungi start munching on your wood, weakening its structure. This is usually caused by moisture and lack of ventilation. Imagine a damp, dark basement – perfect conditions for wood decay to thrive. Decay can be hard to spot at first, but it can quickly turn your shelves into crumbly, unstable messes.

Preventative Measures:
- Use Treated Wood: Pressure-treated wood is resistant to decay, making it ideal for shelves in damp or outdoor environments.
- Apply Sealant: A good sealant will protect the wood from moisture and prevent fungi from taking hold.
- Ensure Ventilation: Proper ventilation will help keep the wood dry and prevent decay.

Checks/Splits: Cracks in the Foundation

Checks and Splits are cracks that appear in the wood, usually along the grain. Checks are small splits that don’t go all the way through the board, while splits do. They’re often caused by rapid drying or stress on the wood. Imagine a board drying too quickly in the sun – the outer layers shrink faster than the inner layers, causing cracks to form.

Causes and Prevention:
- Rapid Drying: Dry wood slowly and evenly to prevent checks and splits.
- Stress: Avoid putting undue stress on the wood, such as forcing screws or nails into it.
- Proper Sealing: Sealing can also help with preventing cracks and splits from happening and help with supporting strength.

By learning to identify these common wood defects, you’ll be well-equipped to choose the best materials for your shelves and avoid costly (and potentially dangerous) mistakes. Happy shelving!

References and Further Reading: Dig Deeper, Woodchuck!

So, you’re ready to build shelves that would make even Ron Swanson proud? Awesome! But even the most seasoned woodworker benefits from a little extra knowledge. Think of this section as your treasure map to even more information.

Citations:

This is where we give credit where credit is due! Did we quote a lumber expert or reference a scientific study on wood density? You’ll find it listed right here! Proper attribution is essential, not just for ethical reasons but also for building trust with your readers. After all, nobody wants to take advice from a blog that just makes stuff up, right?

Further Reading:

Now, for the good stuff! Here, you’ll find a curated list of helpful links that will send you down a rabbit hole of woodworking knowledge (in the best possible way). We’re talking everything from detailed guides on wood identification to advanced design techniques for shelving.
Online Resources: Think of reputable websites for woodworkers, forestry organizations, and even academic papers on material science. Got a specific wood type in mind? Look for resources dedicated to its properties, uses, and sustainability.
Books: Ah, the smell of old books and sawdust! A well-stocked woodworking library can be your best friend. Look for titles covering shelf building, wood identification, joinery techniques, and finishing.
Magazines: From the practical tips to the eye-catching designs, woodworking magazines offer a wealth of inspiration and expert advice.
Example Resources:
- The Wood Database: A fantastic online resource for detailed information on virtually every wood species known to humankind. (Link included)
- Fine Woodworking Magazine: Offers a mix of project plans, technique tutorials, and tool reviews. (Link included)
- [Your Local Library Website]: Don’t forget your local library for free access to books and other resources!

This section helps prove you’ve done your research, making your post even more valuable and trustworthy in the eyes of your readers (and search engines!). By providing links to authoritative sources, you’re also helping your readers take their woodworking skills to the next level.

So, there you have it! From sturdy hardwoods to budget-friendly options, there’s a wood out there perfect for your shelving needs. Happy building, and may your shelves always be strong and stylish!