Metal sliding drawers are useful for orderly storage and organization in home and office settings. While they are helpful, the repeated use of these drawers causes wear and tear, like sticking and squeaking, that needs to be addressed. In situations where the wear and tear is significant, replacing the drawer slides may be necessary.
To help you easily replace damagedmetal sliding drawer hardware, we’ve created a 7-step installation guide to save you time and money while keeping your drawers functioning at their best.
Types of Metal Sliding Drawer Slides
Picking the right type of metal sliding drawer slides is key to meeting the specific needs of your drawer, like weight limits and aesthetic preferences.
- Ball-bearing slides. These are popular for their smooth operation and durability.
- Undermount slides. These slides are mounted under the drawer, keeping them invisible when the drawer is open and offering a clean, streamlined look.
- Side-mount slides. These are mounted on the sides of the drawer and are typically easy to install and adjust.
- Soft-close slides. These slides feature a mechanism that prevents drawer slamming.
How to Replace Metal Sliding Drawer Hardware
Tools and Materials Needed
- Newmetal drawer slides
- Screwdriver or drill
- Measuring tape
- Level
- Pencil or marker
- Optional: wood glue or epoxy for repairs
7-Step Installation Guide
- Remove the Drawer
Begin by emptying the contents of your drawer. Remove the drawer from its slot by lifting it at an angle or disengaging a lever.
- Remove Old Slides
Unscrew the old slides from the drawer and cabinet. If you plan to use the same screws for your new slides, keep them handy.
- Measure and Mark for New Slides
Measure the length of the old slides. Mark the positions for the new slides on both the drawer and the cabinet, ensuring they are level and aligned.
- Selecting Your New Drawer Slides
Choosing the right slides is crucial. Consider the types of high-quality drawer slides mentioned above
- Attach New Slides
Fix the new slides in place, following your marks for accurate alignment. Do not overtighten the screws.
- Reinstall the Drawer
Align and slide the drawer back into its slot. It should fit seamlessly and glide smoothly.
- Test and Adjust
Open and close the drawer several times to test its movement. Make adjustments if necessary to ensure perfect alignment and smooth operation.
Common Problems and Solutions
Like all hardware, metal drawer slides experience wear and tear that can result in less-than-perfect operation. The solutions below can fix these common issues.
- Drawer sticking. This can occur due to accumulated dirt or wear and tear on the slides.
Solution: Clean the tracks thoroughly and replace the slides if worn out.
- Misalignment. This can cause the drawer to get stuck or slip off the track.
Solution: Adjust the position of the slides for corrected alignment.
- Noisy operation. This often results from loose components or lack of lubrication.
Solution: Tighten any loose screws andapply a lubricant for metal drawers.
- Drawer won’t stay closed. This issue is often related to misaligned or damaged slides.
Solution: Check the alignment and replace the slides if necessary.
By understanding these common problems and their solutions, you can easily maintain the functionality of your metal sliding drawers.