Get matched with top closet pros in Atlantic Mine, MI

If you’re on a tight budget, the least expensive material you can buy for DIY closet shelves is chipboard, a.k.a. particle board. This inexpensive material is made from a pulp of sawdust, resin, and glue that’s pressed together under high temperature and pressure. As you can imagine, it’s not very sturdy and might buckle under your blue jean collection, so you should only use it if you’re storing very light items. 

Yes, adding a built-in or custom closet generally increases your home's value and makes it more attractive to potential buyers. A well-designed closet adds utility, organization, and a touch of luxury, which are appealing selling points. Most homeowners see a return on investment (ROI) of 50% to 60%; for example, a custom closet can add about $1,000 to your home's value on average. The specific ROI depends on the type, with custom walk-in closets typically providing more value than reach-in closets. However, to maximize value, ensure the closet doesn't significantly detract from the room's usable square footage. Converting an entire room into a closet can actually lower your home's value. Similarly, using overly lavish materials may not recoup their cost. A good strategy is to add a closet that takes square footage from a non-living area, such as a garage, to create a mudroom closet.

Building custom cabinets or built-in furniture yourself is possible, especially for basic designs, if you have woodworking experience. For a professional result, hiring a service is recommended to ensure precision, high-quality craftsmanship, and superior finishes.

Closet design services include help designing and laying out your closet for maximum utility, visual appeal, and return on investment. Many closet designers can also include the carpentry required to construct your custom closet. You should speak with your designer beforehand to determine what services are included in the estimate, and prepare to lay out additional funds for materials or labor as needed.