Installing drawer runners can be intimidating, especially if you need to familiarize yourself with the process. But fear not! Anyone can install drawer runners like a pro with the right tools and guidance. This article will take you through every step, from measuring and choosing the right runners to attach them to your drawers and cabinets. So let’s get started!
Step 1: Measure Your Drawers And Cabinets
Before you begin, you’ll need to measure your drawers and cabinets to determine what size runners you need. Start by measuring the depth and width of your drawers and the height of your cabinets. Please note these measurements so you can refer to them later.
Step 2: Choose The Right Type Of Drawer Runners
There are two main types of drawer runners: side-mount and under-mount. Side-mount runners attach to the sides of the drawer and the inside of the cabinet, while under-mount runners attach to the bottom of the drawer and the inside of the cabinet. Both types have advantages and disadvantages, so choosing the type best suited to your needs is important.
Side-mount runners are generally easier to install but can occupy valuable space inside your drawers. On the other hand, under-mount runners are more discreet and allow full use of the drawer space, but they can be more difficult to install.
Step 3: Gather Your Tools And Materials
Before installing your drawer runners, ensure you have all the necessary tools and materials. You’ll need a drill, screws, a screwdriver, measuring tape, and a pencil. You’ll also need the drawer runners and any mounting brackets or clips that may be required.
Step 4: Attach The Runners To The Cabinet
To attach the runners to the cabinet, you’ll need to mark the location where you want them installed. Measure the distance from the top of cabinet to the bottom of the drawer, and mark this distance on both sides of the cabinet.
Next, use your drill to attach the runners to the cabinet. You’ll want to make sure that the runners are level and that they’re spaced evenly apart. Use screws to attach the runners to the cabinet, making sure to sink them deep enough, so they don’t stick out.
Step 5: Attach The Runners To The Drawer
With the runners attached to the cabinet, it’s time to attach them to the drawer. To do this, you’ll need to measure the distance from the bottom of the drawer to the bottom of the runners. Mark this distance on the sides of the drawer, and then attach the runners to the drawer using screws.
Make sure that the runners are level and that they’re spaced evenly apart. Once you’ve attached the runners to the drawer, test the drawer to make sure it slides smoothly along the runners.
Step 6: Make Any Necessary Adjustments
If your drawer doesn’t slide smoothly along the runners, you may need to make some adjustments. Check to make sure that the runners are level and that they’re spaced evenly apart. If they’re not, you may need to reposition them.
You may also need to adjust the height of the runners. If the drawer is too high or too low, you can adjust the height of the runners by adding or removing shims.
Step 7: Install The Drawer Stops
Drawer stops are small pieces of hardware that prevent the drawer from being pulled too far from the cabinet. First, to install the stops, measure the distance from the back of the cabinet to the back of the drawer.
Next, attach the stops to the inside of the cabinet using screws. Ensure that the stops are positioned so they’ll come into contact with the back of the drawer when fully extended out.
Step 8: Test Your Drawer
Once you’ve installed the drawer runners and stops, it’s time to test your drawer. Open and close the drawer many times to ensure it slides smoothly and that the stops are working properly. If everything looks good, congratulations! You’ve successfully installed drawer runners like a pro.
Conclusion
Installing drawer runners is a task anyone can accomplish with the right tools and guidance. Following the steps outlined in this guide, you can install drawer runners like a pro in no time. Remember to measure carefully, choose the right type of runners, and take your time. You can confidently tackle any drawer runner installation project with some patience and practice.
