Installing a shelf, lamp and curtain rod - a step-by-step guide for beginners
Installing basic apartment furnishing elements, such as shelves, lamps or curtain rods, does not require much experience. All you need are a few tools and knowledge of the basic principles to do this work yourself and safely.
What tools will you need?
Prepare before you start:
- drill or screwdriver
- spirit level
- measure
- pencil
- expansion plugs adapted to the wall
- screwdriver
Well-selected dowels are key - different ones are used for concrete and others for plasterboards.
Step by step shelf assembly
- Mark drilling locations (use a spirit level)
- Drill holes in the wall
- Insert the expansion bolts
- Screw on the handles
- Install the shelf
The most common error is a crooked setting - always check the level before drilling.
Installing a ceiling lamp
Safety is the most important thing here.
- Turn off the electricity
- Check the voltage with a test tube
- Connect the wires according to the colors
- Fix the lamp to the ceiling
- Turn on the electricity and check operation
If you are not sure about the installation, it is better to consult a professional.
Find a specialist in your area:
Curtain rod installation
- Measure the width of the window
- Mark the installation locations (approx. 10–20 cm above the window)
- Drill holes
- Attach the handles
- Install the curtain rod and check its stability
A well-installed curtain rod should support the weight of the curtains without deformation.
The most common mistakes
- wrongly selected pins
- no spirit level
- drilling without checking the installation in the wall
- installation without turning off the electricity (with lamps)
When is it worth ordering installation?
Consider professional help if:
- the walls are made of difficult materials (e.g. reinforced concrete)
- the electrical installation is insecure
- you don't have the right tools
Find a specialist in your city (Warsaw and surroundings):
Installation in your city
If you don't want to do it yourself, you can use local services:
- shelf installation Warsaw
- lamp installation Warsaw
- handyman Warsaw
Check available services:
Summary
Installing a shelf, lamp or curtain rod is one of the simplest household chores you can do yourself. The key is accuracy, appropriate tools and following safety rules.More tips from the home and garden category
- how to paint your apartment yourself step by step
- 10 things you can fix at home yourself
-
renovation of the apartment from A to Z – checklist
FAQ
Which dowels should I choose to mount the shelf?
It depends on the type of wall - concrete is used differently than plasterboard.
Is it safe to install the lamp?
Yes, provided you turn off the electricity and connect the wires correctly.
How high should you mount the curtain rod?
Most often 10-20 cm above the window to visually enlarge the space.
How much does installation by a professional cost?
Usually from PLN 50 to PLN 200 per element, depending on the city and scope of work.
