Why Toden Surfaces Are a Cost Effective Choice for Your Custom Shelving Needs
When it comes to creating the perfect storage and organization solution for your home or workspace, many people contemplate building their own custom shelves. However, when you factor in all the hidden costs—materials, labor, and time—choosing Toden Industries’ pre-finished surfaces becomes an increasingly appealing option. Let's break down why investing in Toden shelves might be the best decision you make for your space.
The Material, Tools, and Time of Typical Storage and Shelving
At first glance, building your own custom shelves may seem like a cost-effective choice. You might think you’ll save money by sourcing materials like wood, brackets, and paint. However, let’s dig deeper into the actual costs involved:
1. Materials: Wood cost can add up fast, especially if you're looking for something durable that will last. Minimally you probably want to use 3/4." Try to avoid brackets which have a cross brace as it restricts storage area, requires more spacing between rows, and had to keep 'like' things organized.
2. Tools: Unless you’re already equipped with tools, you’ll likely need to invest in a saw and a drill. If you're looking for something more finished consider sanders, and other equipment. This initial outlay can quickly add up.
3. Time: The time you spend measuring, cutting, assembling, and finishing your shelves is a huge moving target. What may begin as a weekend project could easily extend into multiple days, particularly if you are running to and from the store for parts you didn't anticipate. If this is your first time, you my want to factor 2x the time than you are considering.
What an Intermediate/Confident DIYer (not a pro) usually spends on a 12‑ft‑long, 16‑inch‑deep wall shelf
|
Task |
What you’re doing |
DIY‑friendly time range* |
|
1 · Measure & lay out |
Snap a level reference line, mark bracket positions every 16 in. stud and formulate a plan to minimize overhangs |
20‑30 min |
|
2 · Locate studs |
Full 12‑ft scan, confirm with pilot nails, for all 9 studs, adjusting as necessary |
15‑25 min |
|
3 · Install brackets & shelf |
Hold each board, level, drive lag screws, double‑check plumb |
30‑40 min |
|
4 · Cut, pre‑drill & countersink |
Rip 16‑inch‑deep boards cross‑cut to length, based on bracket layouts |
30‑45 min |
|
5 · Assemble / fasten shelf |
Keep shelves straight, seams tight on brackets, drive screws to tack into place |
45‑55 min |
|
6 · Touch Ups |
Sand edges with cut marks, secure all brackets with screws to shelf, consider nosing if flimsy |
30 min (+ 60 min for nosing) |
Active build time = 3.5 – 4.5 hours
Note: Masonry hands‑on time closer to 5 – 6½ hrs because of extensive masonry drilling.
4. Finishing: If you plan to paint or stain your shelves, you’ll need to consider the additional cost of these materials and the time needed for application and drying. Toden shelves come pre-finished, eliminating this hassle entirely.
Add drying/curing time to your active build time for paint or stain, but your hands‑on part is a solid Saturday.
|
Task |
What you’re doing |
DIY‑friendly time range* |
|
6 · Finishing |
Sand edges, first coat of paint/stain, or wipe‑on sealer |
90‑120 min (+ overnight dry) |
Toden Shelves: Built-in Aesthetic Proven to Add Home Value
Now, let’s talk about Toden Industries’ offerings. Our shelves stand out not only in quality but also in design. Here are some compelling reasons to choose Toden shelves over DIY options:
1. Depth Matters: 16” Deep Shelves
One of the most significant advantages of Toden shelves is their depth. At 16 inches, they provide ample space for a variety of items, from books to decor to kitchen supplies. Many standard shelves are not this deep, which limits their utility. With Toden shelves, you won’t have to compromise on storage options or style.
2. Pre-Finished Convenience
Say goodbye to messy paint and stain projects. Toden shelves come pre-finished, which means they arrive ready to install. This saves you the headache of finishing them yourself, allowing you to focus on what really matters—enjoying your new space.
3. Fewer Brackets, More Stability
Toden shelves require fewer brackets than many DIY designs, which not only simplifies installation but also means you have less studs to find. Our shelves are designed for stability and strength, ensuring that they can hold all your items without the need for excessive supports.
4. Time-Saving Installation
With Toden shelves, installation is a breeze. In just a few hours, you can transform your space without the extensive preparation and labor that a DIY project demands. Whether you're setting up a home office, a living room, or a kitchen, our easy-to-install shelves free up your time for what you enjoy most.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice
While building your own custom shelves may initially seem like a budget-friendly choice, the hidden costs can quickly add up, making it far less appealing. With Toden Industries, you receive high-quality, pre-finished 16” deep shelves that save you time, labor, and hassle. The value you get from investing in Toden surfaces far outweighs the initial cost of DIY materials and also saves you an immense amount of time.
