A beautifully designed living space is not just about furniture and decorations; it’s also about utilizing the available wall space to make a statement that reflects your style and personality. Luckily, there are endless options available to enhance the appearance of the walls in your home, and live edge floating shelves are one of them.
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5ft Live Edge Floating English Yew Mantel Shelf Waney
What are Live Edge Floating Shelves?
Live edge floating shelves are unique shelving units that offer an organic and rustic elegance to living spaces. These shelves are made from raw or unfinished wood slabs that are cut at the exact angle required to support the weight of the shelf from the wall. Instead of traditional brackets or supports, live edge shelves are supported by hidden tracks that are secured to the wall and allow the shelf to appear to float in mid-air.
Why Choose Live Edge Floating Shelves?
The natural beauty of live edge floating shelves is incomparable to any other type of shelving. Each piece is unique, featuring the natural patterns and textures of different types of wood, and no two shelves are ever completely identical. That evocative simplicity is what makes these shelves perfect for any space from modern and contemporary to rustic interiors.
Different Types of Live Edge Floating Shelves
There are different types of live edge floating shelves available in the market today, and each is unique in its way. The most common types of live edge floating shelves include:
- Reclaimed Wood
- Solid Teak
- English Yew
- Black Walnut
Benefits of Live Edge Floating Shelves
Live edge floating shelves bring a myriad of advantages to homes that overcome the typical shortcomings of traditional shelving units. Their key benefits include:
- Flexibility: Live edge floating shelves are versatile units that can be used to display a wide array of items, from vases and magazines to books and picture frames.
- Space-Saving: Unlike traditional shelving units, floating shelves do not take up floor space, making them a perfect addition to small apartments that have limited floor real estate.
- Stylish Design: The rustic appearance, natural textures, and unique grain patterns of live edge floating shelves create a unique and stunning visual element for any living space.
- Easy to Install: Since floating shelves do not require visible brackets or supports, installation is often straightforward and can be done by people with basic DIY skills.
Advantages of Live Edge Floating Shelves
The advantages of live edge floating shelves go beyond their unique design, and they include:
- Durability: Live edge floating shelves are made of high-quality wood, providing a long-lasting solution for storage and display units.
- Low Maintenance: Unlike other shelving units made of metal or plastic, live edge floating shelves require minimal maintenance, only requiring periodic dusting or a quick wipe down to maintain their appearance.
- Easy to Clean: Live edge floating shelves can be easily cleaned with soap and water, making them a practical addition to any home space.
How to Install Live Edge Floating Shelves
Installing live edge floating shelves is relatively simple and can be done with a few basic tools, including a drill, screws, and a stud finder. Here is a quick installation guide:
- First, locate the studs in your wall using a stud finder.
- Measure and mark the position of the shelf on the wall using a pencil and level.
- Using a drill, attach the mounting bracket to the wall at the marked locations.
- Attach the second bracket in the same manner.
- Install the shelf onto the brackets to create the floating effect.
Tips for Caring for Live Edge Floating Shelves
Keeping your live edge floating shelves in excellent condition requires a few simple tips:
- Keep the shelves dry: Avoid placing plants or cups with liquid that may drip onto the shelves, potentially causing damage to the wood.
- Protect from direct sunlight: If your shelf is exposed to sunlight, it’s essential to ensure that it’s coated with a UV protective finish to prevent discoloration or warping.
- Dust frequently: Use a soft cloth or a feather duster to remove dust from the shelves to prevent the buildup of debris that may seep into the pores of the material.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals: Refrain from using any harsh chemicals or abrasive substances to clean the shelves, as these can cause damage to the finish or discoloration.
With their unique natural beauty, rustic elegance, and versatility, live edge floating shelves are the perfect addition to any living space to create a visually appealing and practical storage and display solution.