Fuzzy_Chom t1_j9za7rn wrote on February 25, 2023 at 5:46 PM

IMHO, i think you're on track. That being said....

Personally, when i have heavy cabinets to mount (garage), i like using a wide French cleat to support the weight. Not sure if it makes a huge difference, but i think about the cleat being mounted across the cabinet, as well as two lags per stud across the whole width, as means of distributing the weight. Is it necessary? Dunno, but i like to over build a bit, not knowing how well each lag is biting into a stud and not knowing exactly how the structure will be used long term.

toasterstrewdal OP t1_j9zga35 wrote on February 25, 2023 at 6:25 PM

I like the idea of the French cleat. However the challenge is now added thickness of the cleat itself. 3/4” may be too thick based on how deep the cabinets sit. 1/2” would be better. Thin, yes, but if I ripped an 8” strip, cut it at 45 degrees down the middle, secured it with 8 screws to the shelf, do you think the weight distribution would be sufficient? Again, I’m not trying to float the bookcase, just trying to alleviate the weight on the sideboard. Thoughts?