Built-in bookcases are custom-made from quality materials and are designed to fit a particular space. However, you can recreate this look using prefab bookcases. Prefabricated bookcases are ready-made or ready-to-assemble units that use fabricated wood products instead of solid wood. To make this project aesthetically uniform and sturdy requires selecting prefab units that fit in the space as if they were custom-made for it. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
Set Up the Bookcases
1. Assemble the bookcases, if necessary, according to the instructions using any provided hardware and hex keys.
2. Paint or stain the units to match your decor if you wish. Allow the bookcases time to dry.
3. Align the bookcases flush against the wall and each other. Check the level of the bookcases as a unit. Use shims, or small slivers of wood, to correct any height differences. Slide a shim under the bottom of any bookcase that needs to be raised from the floor to present an even top line with all the other bookcases.
4. Start at the left end of the bookcase unit. Locate the first beam in the wall with a stud finder. Screw the back of the first bookcase into the beam using a drill and 3-inch screws. Place the screws in the top and bottom of the unit.
5. Screw the sides of the first and second bookcases together using a drill and 1-inch wood screws.
6. Screw the second bookcase into the wall as you did the first. Screw the second bookcase into the side of the third bookcase. Continue with this method until all the bookcases are secured to the wall and to the adjoining bookcases.
Apply Wood Trim
7. Paint or stain the wood for the trim to match the color of the bookcases. Allow to dry thoroughly.
8. Measure the length of the connected bookcases from end to end. Use the width you desire for the top and bottom trim that will run across the length of the unit. Cut two pieces of wood to these measurements with a compound miter saw.
9. Apply wood glue to the back of the top trim piece and press it into place. Allow the glue to dry. Use a pneumatic nailer and brads to attach the trim securely to the unit. Repeat for the bottom trim piece.
10. Measure the distance between the top and bottom trim. Cut pieces to this length. You will need enough pieces to cover the outside edges of the unit and where the individual bookcases adjoin each other. Apply wood glue to the backs of the pieces and press them to the outer edges of the unit and where the bookcases adjoin each other. Allow the pieces to dry. Use the nailer and brads to attach them to the unit.
11. Touch up the edge cuts and the screw and nail holes with wood putty and more stain or paint to complete the professional built-in look.
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