Ready to upgrade your closets and looking at a closet system? First things are first, knowing how much space you have to work with. Exact measurements are very important for all wood closet systems when you need to cut them, if you are off by a 1/2 inch it can mean whether your system will fit or not fit. If you are working with a closet in your kitchen or bathroom allowing room for things like the appliances, entry doors and cabinets it is essential to get it right the first time.

Measurements for your closet’s width, depth, return walls and size of the door opening will tell you what kind of shelving and the extras you can add to the basic configuration of your closet. But most closet walls are not perfectly square, so make sure you take measurements in a few places and then use the smallest dimensions to ensure more successful results.

Getting the proper measurements is always a team effort, someone to hold the measuring tape and someone to write down numbers as you go along. It might be easier to make a rough sketch of the space making a note of any obstacles, like electrical, lighting or security boxes, how your closet door opens, and if your closet has exposed duct work, a soffit or slanted ceiling. All this will give you a better idea of the materials you will need when you go to the store or shop online for your closet system. If you choose to go to the store to purchase the system you can talk to an in-store consultants to help you choose the right components for your closet or to even install the system for an additional fee.

Some Important Numbers to Keep in Mind

• A clothes closet should have a minimum depth of at least 24 inches deep, so the clothes can clear the back wall.
• Shelves for women’s shoes should be spaced about 6 to 7 inches apart.
• Shelves for folded clothes should be placed around 12 inches apart.
• 84 inches is considered the minimum height to hold double hanging rods.
• Blouses and shirts will take up about 1 inch of rod space, pants and skirts around 1 1/4 inches and dresses, jackets and suits about 2 to 3 inches.

Use the numbers above as a general guideline. Keep in mind the height of the occupants, what they hang up and the type of footwear they use, you will have to increase size of the shoe cubicles and raise or lower the clothes rods as needed.

If you still have questions about anything relating to your closet, head over to PlumbTile. We will be able to help answer any and all questions or refer you to someone who is better equipped to answer that question. Let us help you get the perfect measurements for your closet.