> ## Knowledge Base Index
> Fetch the complete knowledge base index at: https://help.getplanks.co.uk/sitemap.xml
> Use this file to discover available pages before exploring further.
> Pure-Markdown content can be obtained by appending a '.md' suffix to the content URLs listed in the sitemap (without the trailing slash).

# What Fixings Do I Need for My Wall Type? (With Installation Guide)

If you’re unsure whether our shelves will work on your wall, it comes down to the type of bracket used and what you’re fixing into.

Below is a simple guide based on the exact fixings we use.

### **Floating Shelves (Concealed Fixings)**

These use concealed steel supports that sit inside the shelf and fix directly into the wall.
* Hidden once installed
* Very strong when fitted correctly
* Designed for solid walls

**Wall compatibility:**
* ✅ Solid walls (brick, concrete, stone) → Ideal
* ⚠️ Stud walls → Only if fixed directly into studs
* ❌ Plasterboard only → Not suitable

These brackets are designed to be fixed into masonry and rely on a solid anchor point to perform properly

To read more about the installation process, check out our PDF here: [**Floating Instructions**](https://getplanks.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Floating-Shelf-Instruction.pdf)

### **Alcove Shelves (Side Brackets)**

These use metal alcove brackets fixed into the side walls, with the shelf sitting on top.
* Load is supported from both sides
* Available in different sizes depending on shelf depth
* Strong and reliable when properly fixed

**Wall compatibility:**
* ✅ Solid walls → Ideal
* ⚠️ Stud walls → Possible with proper fixing into studs or strong anchors
* ⚠️ Plasterboard → Only with heavy-duty anchors and lighter loads

Brackets are sized based on shelf depth (e.g. 20–25cm, 30–35cm, etc.), so the support matches the shelf size

To read more about the installation process, check out our PDF here: [**Alcove Instructions**](https://getplanks.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Alcove-Shelf-Instruction.pdf)

### **Industrial Brackets (Visible Support)**

These are external metal brackets fixed underneath the shelf.
* Visible, structural support
* Easier to install across different wall types
* Good for heavier loads when spaced correctly

**Wall compatibility:**
* ✅ Solid walls → Ideal
* ✅ Stud walls → Good if fixed into studs
* ⚠️ Plasterboard → Requires proper anchors

Because the support sits underneath, these are generally the most forgiving option if your wall isn’t ideal.

To read more about the installation process, check out our PDF here: [**Shelves Instructions**](https://getplanks.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Wall-Shelf-Instruction.pdf)

**How to Know If Your Wall Will Work**
If you have a **solid wall** → all bracket types will work
If you have a **stud wall** → aim to fix into studs where possible
If you have **plasterboard** only → bracket shelves are the safer option