The mantel shelf with hooks is very sturdy. The cleat mounting device is a great option, especially because te shelf is sooooo heavy! My only complaint is the finish - it is supposed to be distressed, but it has splashes and drops of the glaze in the front that just looks like someone got messy with the paint. Most likely this will be covered by coats so its not that concerning, but still looks unsightly. Good to remember that this piece is MDF so it is very heavy and one area where the finish chipped off is white underneath NOT wood. I will keep it anyway - too heavy to ship back.