After some time has passed, the shelves are not as level as they could be. They are actually starting to sag a bit. My recommendation, being a builder all my life, would be to increase the thickness of the shelves to a full 3/4". I measured the present thickness at approx. 19/32", not even a full 5/8". I do however, have a full load on the shelves and if you don't have a full load they probably would be fine. Another alternative would be to run a center rail or post down through the middle of the shelf front and back for additional support. My recommendation to a friend would depend upon the usage of the shelf itself. Although I do like its appearance and how it assembled together.