The width of side-mount drawer slides varies depending on their application. Heavy-duty slides typically measure between 20” and 28”, while light-duty slides typically measure between 11” and 20”. Measuring the cabinet opening will determine what size is needed.
Keep in mind that when installing any side-mounted drawer slide, it is important to leave between a 1/8” and 1/4” clearance on each side of the drawer opening.
Where should side drawer slides be mounted?
Side drawer slides should be mounted underneath the drawer. Inset slides should be mounted to the sides of the drawer, while overlay slides should be mounted to the sides of the cabinet box. When mounting drawer slides, the bottom of the slides should be flush with the bottom of the drawer box and the bottom of the slides should be positioned 1/8 inch above the drawer bottom.
When mounting the slides to the drawer, all the mounting screws should be aligned in parallel, not crossing other screws, with the longest screw closest to the center. When mounting the slides to the cabinet box, pre-drill the holes for the screws, and make sure the screws draw the slide tight against the cabinet box.
When installing the drawer, be sure to firmly press it all the way back into the cabinet box, as this will help keep it in alignment and running smoothly.
Do drawer slides have to be the same length as the drawer?
No, drawer slides do not have to be the same length as the drawer. Depending on the installation you are looking to achieve, you may have the option to use different length slides than the length of the drawer.
For example, if the drawer is a standard kitchen-cabinet-sized drawer (24″ long), you may have the option of using a 22″ or 20″ full-extension drawer slide. For a side mount installation, you will typically want to use a slide that is the same length as the drawer.
However, if you are using a bottom mount installation, you will typically want to use slides that are shorter than the length of the drawer so that the side or back of the drawer does not extend beyond the cabinet.
Can drawer slides be shorter than drawer?
Yes, drawer slides can be shorter than the drawer they are supporting. There are two basic types of drawer slides – full-extension and three-quarter. Full-extension slides protrude out of the cabinet and extend the full length of the drawer.
Three-quarter slides only extend about three-quarters of the length of the drawer and are generally used for smaller drawers that don’t need full extension. Since this type of slide does not extend the full length of the drawer, it is possible to have a slide that is shorter than the drawer.
In addition, certain brands of drawer slides have the ability to be adjusted to the size of the drawer. This allows you to customize the size of the slide to fit the length of your drawer. If you have a drawer that is longer than the slides you have purchased, you can cut the slides down to size to ensure a perfect fit.
How long is a 24 inch drawer slide?
A 24 inch drawer slide is typically designed to accommodate a drawer’s width of up to 24 inches. This can vary somewhat depending on the model, but 24 inches is a standard length. The overall length of the drawer slide itself is usually slightly longer than 24 inches as other elements like the intermediate support bracket, or the back mount plate, need to be included.
On average, a 24 inch drawer slide will measure around 25 to 27 inches in overall length.
What length of drawer slides do I need?
It depends on the size of your drawer, as well as where and how you plan to install the slides. Generally, there are three main types of drawer slides: full-extension, single-extension, and over-travel.
Full-extension slides are most common in kitchen drawers and give you full access to the drawer from the front and back. Single-extension slides are usually found in furniture drawers, such as dressers, and give you access to three-quarters of the drawer’s contents.
Over-Travel slides are the longest type of slides and are mounted to the back of the drawer. They’re great for accessing deep drawers, like those found in tool chests and kitchen pantry drawers.
To determine the length of drawer slides you need, start by measuring the width of your drawer and adding two inches (or more, depending on the type of slides you’re using) to the length. That’s the maximum length you should consider.
The slides also come in shorter sizes, so if you’re looking for something a bit shorter, you can also go with that shorter size.
How do I know what size cabinet pulls to use?
When choosing cabinet pulls, it is important to understand the size and fit of the product in relation to the cabinet itself. All cabinet pulls come in a variety of sizes, so it is important to take measurements for both the cabinet doors and drawers and choose a size that will fit perfectly.
The following are some general guidelines for choosing the right size cabinet pulls:
● Pulls should be 1-1/2” to 2” wider than the door or drawer they are being used on.
● If pulls will be used on standard 24” wide kitchen cabinets, a 3-3/4” inch pull is usually the ideal size.
● For larger cabinets such as those on an island or pantry, 4” will provide the proper balance of form and function.
● For smaller cabinets, fills as those found in a bathroom, a 2-1/2” or 3” pull would be a better fit.
In addition to size, it is important to consider the weight of the hardware as well. Heavier cabinet doors and drawers require larger hardware to provide the necessary stability, whereas lighter cabinet doors and drawers may require smaller hardware to avoid overdoing the look.
It is also important to consider the individual style and design of the cabinet pulls in order to ensure they compliment the other hardware within the space. Matching the overall aesthetic while adding a unique design element to the room can create a beautiful, thoughtful finish.
Ultimately, it is important to take measurements and consider the weight, size, and individual style of the hardware when choosing cabinet pulls to ensure a perfect fit and stunning look.
How do you build an undermount slide drawer?
Building an undermount slide drawer is not difficult, but does require some assembly. Before beginning, check the instructions for the size and type of the drawer slide you’re working with.
First, you’ll need to measure the opening in the cabinet, then cut a wood drawer box to fit the opening. Install plywood or Baltic birch drawer sides and a bottom, as well as a front and back piece. Alternatively, you could use solid wood sides, groove out the bottom edge, and use a spline to secure it.
Next, make sure the drawer box fits properly before attaching the glides to the box. Attach the drawer glides to the box sides either with screws, dowels, or staples. Secure all four corners of the box to ensure a stable fit.
After that, line up the drawer glides to the cabinet and mark their location. Once marked, you should then attach the glides to the cabinet, either with screws or dowels. If necessary, use a scrap piece of wood to help keep the drawer box level and centered for installing the glides.
Finally, install screws in the end of the drawer box where the cabinet attach. These screws should be installed in wood not in plastic, and should be snug, but not over-tightened so that the drawer has some room to move.
Once the screws are installed and the drawer is properly aligned, you’re all done. Test out your work and make sure the drawer slides smoothly in an out of the cabinet. If any adjustments are necessary, make them and re-test until you get the desired result.
Can you put drawer slides on the bottom of a drawer?
Yes, you can put drawer slides on the bottom of a drawer. Drawer slides are typically used to make drawers open and close more smoothly and reliably, and they can be affixed to the bottom of a drawer in a variety of ways.
Depending on your drawer slide brand, you may need to get hardware to attach the slide to the bottom of the drawer. If you’re putting the drawer slides on the bottom, take that into consideration when you buy the slides as some have lower profiles than others.
Once the slides are attached to the bottom of the drawers, you’ll need to attach the other end to the cabinet or other structure. It is important to make sure the slide runs in a straight line to allow for a smooth opening and closing motion.
If you need further instructions, you may want to consult the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific drawer slide model.
Are undermount drawer slides good?
Undermount drawer slides are a great choice if you’re looking for a high-quality, reliable drawer slide. The undermount design means the slides sit underneath the drawer and the cabinet, which helps to save space and provide a more streamlined look.
When compared to other types of drawer slides, undermount drawer slides typically offer a smoother and quieter experience opening and closing drawers, as the slides run in an enclosed track system. Furthermore, they have a high load capacity and can handle weighty drawers without sagging or bowing.
Additionally, they’re often easier to install than other types of slides, saving you time and hassle. With all these great benefits, it’s easy to see why undermount drawer slides are a great choice for both homeowners and professional cabinet makers.
What is the difference between undermount and side mount drawer slides?
Undermount drawer slides are concealed under the drawer and are installed using screws and plates attached to the inside of the cabinet or furniture. They require precise measurements and work best with thicker panels.
This type of slide is less likely to bind and offers a smooth, easy to use drawer pull that provides a finished look to the overall design.
Side mount drawer slides mount directly to the sides of the drawer and the cabinet face, supporting the full weight of the drawer and its contents. They are easier to install and adjust, making them ideal for larger drawers with heavier contents.
Despite the ease of installation, however, they do not provide as reliable of a pull as undermount drawer slides. Furthermore they are more visible, making them a less attractive choice in many cases.
Are all drawer slides the same size?
No, not all drawer slides are the same size. Different types of slides can vary significantly in their dimensions, ranging from very small slides for shallow drawers to heavy-duty slides for heavy-duty applications or bigger drawers.
Generally, drawer slides can range from around 10 to 36 inches in length, and can be up to 2.5 inches in height. It is important to select a drawer slide that match the measurements of your drawer for proper installation.
Depending on the application you are looking for, there are also standard, full-extension, soft-close, and locking drawer slides available, so it is best to evaluate your needs and choose the right product for your project.
Can you use drawer slides sideways?
Yes, you can use drawer slides sideways. This is an easy way to turn a vertical drawer into a horizontal storage unit. The slides are designed to be completely adjustable, so you can make the exact angle that you need to support a drawer sideways.
The drawer slides may come with mounting brackets, but if they don’t, you’ll need to purchase them separately. To install the slides and brackets, use a drill or screwdriver, and mount the slides along the inside of the drawer.
This will require accurate measurements to ensure a stable, secure installation. Once the drawer slides and mounting brackets are attached, you can slide the drawer into the opening and secure it in place with screws.
This will allow the drawer to slide smoothly and stay in place when pushed in either direction.
Should drawer slides be bottom or middle?
Drawer slides should be mounted in the center. This is the most common installation option, as it not only evenly distributes the weight of the drawer, but also ensures the drawer slides operate more efficiently.
Furthermore, when a center mount is used, there is no need to adjust the height of the slides as all the weight is on the bottom half of the drawers and all of the vertical alignment is taken care of with the middle slide assembly.
Therefore, using drawer slides in the middle is the most efficient and reliable choice.