Secure That Metal Racking

Creating extra storage space in a garage or pantry is as simple as installing some metal racking. Racking comes in a variety of sizes and weight loads; it also tends to be modular which allows for custom applications in your home or business. But because it's metal, it can be dangerous if one should accidentally fall. Securing your metal racking is always a good idea.

The biggest enemy to racking is an uneven floor. A fraction of an inch of sloping, which is unnoticeable when a rack is empty, can become a big problem when you start to fill it. So the first thing to do once a rack is set in place is to level it. Use plastic or wooden shims underneath the legs to accomplish a level state. If there's any tipping allowed at all, it should be in the backwards direction so that the rack leans against the wall.

With the rack levelled you then need to secure it to the wall with braces designed specifically for this purpose. The braces have two flat edges connected by a half-circle piece. They slide over the round edge of the rack and screw to the wall on either side. If you can also secure the rack to the floor, you'll get added stability. Concrete is difficult for most home owners to deal with, but a standard wood floor should be no problem. Use simple corner braces, attached to the back of the legs and pointing in toward the wall. This way, you won't trip on them when you walk by.

Once your metal racking is level and secure, feel free to fill it with storage boxes, canned goods, tools, or anything else you want. You'll rest peacefully knowing that the rack isn't going anywhere.