The Ins & Outs of the French Cleat (Z Bar Hanging System)

What Is a French Cleat?

French Cleats are a type of mounting hardware used to secure mirrors, artwork, cabinets, floating shelves and other heavy objects to a wall without glue or fasteners.

How Does a French Cleat/Z Bar Work?

Also known as a Z Bar Hanging System, the French Cleat is comprised of two overlapping brackets (mounting bracket and wall bracket) that hook into one another to hold an object in place without being visible.

The overlapping design provides high torque leverage when hanging cantilevered shelves.

How Does It Secure to the Wall?

The wall track of our Hangman French Cleat is punched every inch to ensure at least one stud is hit.

The design of the Hangman French Cleat also makes it possible to shift whatever you are hanging left or right after being hung until it’s in the perfect position.

Official Guide for Mounting a French Cleat/Z Bar:

1.      Locate and mark studs.

2.      With the included lever, mark both end holes using the wall bracket.

3.      Drill easy toggles into the end hole marks on the wall.

4.      Align the bracket with the anchors and install provided screws.

5.      Install screws into all studs.

If not preinstalled by manufacturer, use provided screws and a power drill to attach the product bracket to the back of your shelf.

6.      Hang the shelf so that the brackets interlock, creating a tight and flush bond.

7.      Adjust shelf right or left until its desired position is reached.