Shelving Cost: What to Expect and How to Save

If you're thinking about adding shelves, the first question is always the price. Shelving cost can swing a lot depending on what you need, where you put it, and if you do it yourself or hire help. This guide breaks down the main cost drivers and gives you practical ways to keep the bill low.

Factors That Drive Shelving Cost

Material is the biggest factor. A simple pine board can be under £10 per shelf, while metal brackets and glass panels can push the price above £100 for a single unit. If you want a high‑gloss finish or specialty wood like oak, expect to pay more for the wood and for the finish work.

Size matters too. A short wall shelf is cheap; a tall floor‑to‑ceiling unit needs more material, stronger supports, and often custom cuts. The longer the run, the higher the cost per linear foot.

Location adds hidden fees. Installing shelves in a bathroom or kitchen means you need moisture‑resistant materials and possibly extra hardware to meet building codes. That can add £20‑£50 per shelf.

Finally, the finish and accessories raise the price. Decorative brackets, lighting strips, or sliding doors are nice, but each adds to the total. Decide early if you really need those extras.

DIY vs Professional Installation

Doing it yourself is the quickest way to cut costs. All you need is a basic drill, a level, and some measuring tape. Most home‑improvement stores offer pre‑cut shelves and ready‑made brackets for under £30 per set. If you’re comfortable with a screwdriver, you can install a simple wall shelf in under an hour.

Professional installers charge for labor, usually £30‑£60 per hour in the UK, plus a call‑out fee. For a complex system—like built‑in shelving with custom trim—pro help can be worth the price because they ensure everything is level and secure.

One tip to keep labor cheap: buy the shelves in bulk and ask the store for a discount on the total. Many retailers will shave a few pounds off if you purchase three or more units.

Don’t forget the hidden costs of fixing mistakes. A mis‑drilled wall anchor can damage plaster and require extra repair work. If you’re unsure about the wall type (brick, concrete, drywall), a quick call to a professional for advice can save you money later.

Bottom line: if the shelves are simple and you have basic tools, DIY will save you at least 40‑50% compared to hiring a pro. For heavy or built‑in units, weigh the risk of damage against the labor cost.

When you budget, aim for a total of £50‑£150 per standard wall shelf, including brackets and anchors. If you need high‑end materials or custom designs, plan for £200‑£500 per unit. Use this range as a guide, compare a few stores, and you’ll land on a price that fits your wallet.