I'm planning on building an entertainment center/armoire. Most of the plans that I've looked at call for a 1/4" plywood back to be nailed into the sides. However, one plan that I've looked at uses a 3/4" plywood back with dadoes routed into it to hold the shelves. I plan to use the center shelf to hold a 27" TV.
In your opinion, would it be better to use the 3/4" plywood back with dadoes routed into it so that the center shelf will hold the TV without sagging?
If the length of the shelves is no more than 36" and made of 3/4" material, a 1/4" back should be sufficient if you glue and nail the back into the sides and shelves also and if the unit is supported off the floor by the sides.
A 3/4" back would be necessary if the shelves are longer than 3' and if the back is used to hang the shelving unit on a wall.
Dave
(Ask Dave) (About Dave)Hi, I'm Dave Osborne. With over 50 years experience as a journeyman carpenter, foreman and contractor in heavy construction I enjoyed working with apprentices and sharing the tricks of the trade that others shared with me. Now I get emails from Members all over the world and we include many of my answers in our Free Monthly Newsletters. Some of my answers include drawings and instructions specific to a project, but may also answer your questions. I use correct construction terminology, so you can confidently inform your building supply dealers or contractors exactly what you need.
ASK DAVE!
Membership gives you full access to our hundreds of how-to articles, woodworking plans, converters, calculators and tables. Our Stair Calculator is one of the most popular on the internet. We have projects you can build for (and with) your kids, furniture for your wife, and sheds and gazebos. If you run into a problem or need advice your Membership includes unlimited email questions to me through our Ask Dave quick response button.
Join us!