Installing Cabinet Hardware for a Better Kitchen

One of the best ways to enhance your kitchen is by installing cabinet hardware. Cabinet hardware not only makes it easier to use your kitchen cabinets but are also great accents, completing the overall visual design of the area. Installing cabinet hardware is relatively easy, especially if you follow this guide.

Plan the Position

Cabinet hardware works best if installed in the right spot. While there’s no universally correct position, installing just above the bottom door rail is considered a safe approach. All you need to do is have the bottom of the hardware lined up against the edge of the rail and keep it at the center of the stile. Use a pencil to mark where the holes should be.

Drill Carefully

You will need to pre-drill holes on the cabinet door to accommodate the hardware. Align the holes with the hardware; otherwise, you might have to drill even more holes, potentially weakening the door. Some hardware options will have pre-drilled holes on the plate that you can easily use as a guide. If you’re not sure if you’re pre-drilling at the right spot, it’s safer to leave the work to our experts.

Tightening the Screws

Putting in and driving the screws is easy if you made pre-drilled holes the right way. Be careful when tightening them, however, especially if you’re attaching the hardware on thinner doors. Drive the screw in too much and it might damage and loosen the tread; too little and your hardware might come off the next time you use your cabinets.

Optional Measures

Check if your cabinet hardware is properly secured by doing extra steps during the installation process. For example, you can add thread sealant to keep the screw from eventually coming loose after a long time of frequent use. For hardware only secured by one screw, you may want to put a few dabs of superglue on the back to keep them from spinning or twisting once attached.

Installing kitchen hardware can be tricky, but it’s easy and hassle-free if done with help from our pros. Handyman Connection® can provide you with caulking and general home renovation solutions. Call us at (407) 270-2348 or fill out our online contact form to get an estimate.