You can hire a cabinet maker or carpenter to make your built-in bookshelves
Every book lover dreams of having a dedicated space in their home to show off their prized collection of books. But how do you know who to hire for built-in bookshelves?
Built-in bookshelves add functional and aesthetic value to a room. While some handy homeowners may be able to DIY a built-in bookcase, others may choose to hire a professional for more elaborate builds.
Once you decide to hire a pro, there’s still the question of which type of professional to choose. Let’s take a look at the best type of pro to hire to create the built-in bookshelves of your bibliophile dreams.
The cost of hiring a cabinet maker to make your custom built-in bookshelves will be similar to the standard cabinet installation cost, which can range from $100 to $1,200 per linear foot.
However, paying a professional to create your bookshelves instead of doing a DIY job has many benefits, including:
Cabinet makers are licensed and trained for various building projects.
You will save yourself time, stress, and possibly money.
Pros are familiar with safety code requirements and will build your bookshelf in accordance with them.
Pros have the proper tools and equipment for the job.
Cabinet makers can bring your aesthetic vision to life and offer informed suggestions.
If you have some carpentry skills, it’s usually possible to make built-in bookshelves on your own. Some DIYers buy prefabricated shelving from local hardware stores or retailers to make the job easier. However, if you want a true custom-built shelf made with quality materials that fits seamlessly into your space, hiring a cabinet professional or carpenter near you will ensure the best results.
If you choose to DIY your bookshelves, make sure to:
Choose a sturdy type of wood
Gather all necessary tools and supplies
Accurately measure and safely cut the lumber
Anchor your shelves so they won’t tip over
Yes, in addition to a cabinet maker, you can also hire a carpenter to build your built-in bookshelves. Generally speaking, carpenters are extremely versatile—skilled in building, repairing, installing, and renovating wooden structures. You may even choose to hire a carpenter who specializes in cabinetry and shelving. Before deciding on a pro, you’ll want to make sure their skills and experience align with your specific needs. So, don’t hesitate to ask questions and explore multiple options before hiring the right pro for your bookshelf project.
Once you hire a local carpenter or cabinet contractor near you, they’ll begin building your custom built-in bookshelves. The process will vary based on the style, space, and size of your built-in shelves. In general, though, a cabinet maker will follow these steps:
Assess and measure the designated space
Obtain the chosen wood
Measure and cut pieces with a table or circular saw
Make a jig for the shelf holes
Drill the shelf support holes
Assemble the frame
Add the face frame
Add molding, if requested
Apply the finish
Assemble and anchor the shelves
Professionally installed built-in bookshelves cost from $1,400 to $4,800 on average, with most homeowners spending around $3,000. The final cost depends on the bookshelves' size, material, style, and location.
Most built-in bookshelves are custom-made to fit the available space and meet a homeowner's needs. This level of customization allows you to design the exact look and functionality you desire. However, you can buy cheaper, prefabricated bookshelves to slot into your desired space. However, prefabricated designs might not slot in as snuggly or need to be adjusted to fit.
Building built-in bookshelves takes about two days, but that timeline varies based on whether you DIY the work or hire a cabinet professional. It could take as little as a day to build the most basic design. But if you hire a pro to create an elaborate built-in bookshelf, it could take up to a week.
Also, the number of shelves and the overall size of the bookshelf will impact the construction time. For instance, it may take an extra day or two longer to build a wide bookshelf with six to eight shelves, as opposed to a smaller bookshelf with just three or four shelves.
Built-in bookshelves are worth it when you’re a bibliophile with an impressive personal library or simply looking for additional practical and stylish storage solutions. They are a great way to utilize wall space to its best advantage. Plus, this project adds value to your home and increases its resale potential when made in timeless, high-quality materials.
