Full Guide to Replace Drawer Slides for Novice

Perface

Replacing drawer slides may sound like a very complicated process, but learning how to replace drawer slides does not have to be. If you have the right equipment and a guide on how to do it, it is very simple to replace them and rejuvenate furniture. If it is an old dresser drawer or a worn cabinet, then replacing the slides is a very fulfilling do-it-yourself job that can be very economical. In no time at all, you will have a smoother, more functional drawer if you take a little time and effort to do it right.

Here, you will find all the information you need about drawer slide replacement, including the types of slides and how to install them. By the end of the article, you will be able to confidently restore smooth gliding action to your drawers. Let’s dive in!

It is important to decide whether you really need to replace the drawer slides before you start the process of doing so. Some common signs that your drawer slides may need to be replaced include:

• Obvious signs of wear or tear on the slides
• Hard to open or close the drawer
• Squeaking or grinding noises when the drawer is being pulled or pushed.
• The drawer not staying closed or opening on its own

Step 1: Gather Tools and Materials

With the right tools, you can save time and avoid any hurdles in the process. Also, you should have your new slides ready, these can be side mount, bottom mount or full extension slides, dependent on your existing drawers. A little foresight and availability of required tools will go a long way in carrying out the task swifty by ensuring that the dimensions of the drawer box are accurate.

Step 2: Remove Drawer and Old Slides

To start please take care when pulling the drawer from the cabinet or the dresser. Usually, this is done by fully extending the drawer out and releasing the drawer slides. If you don’t know how to take off the drawer slides, it is quite easy which almost all slides offer a tiny plastic tab or lever that helps in releasing them. You would also want to look for possible damages around the drawers’ box and the sides of the drawers during this phase that might obstruct a smooth installation of new hardware.

The next step involves taking out the old drawer slides from the drawer as well as the cabinet. These could be secured with staples, in which case, a screwdriver, or even a drill will probably be required. Take care to inspect the interior of the cabinet to look for old screw holes that may be utilized again. For those with side glides, unhinging these drawers can be a fairly effortless process; however, extreme care should be exercised as older slides may be rusted or damaged which can complicate removal.

Step 3: Measure Existing Drawer Slides

• you have to consider the width of the drawer slides from the front side to the rear of the cabinet or furniture.
• Determine the width of the drawer box and the space between it and the side of the drawer for the new slides.
• Document these measurements to assist you in the selection of the right replacement drawer slides.

In the process of drawer slide replacement, it is important to measure your old slides in order to get the right replacement. First, determine the overall length of the existing drawer slides since the size you select will determine the efficiency of the drawer. To get the length you will need a tape measure to measure the inside of the cabinet and the side of the drawer. Make sure you measure the width and depth of the drawer so that you can have the right fit for the new slides.

It is even more crucial to get the right measurement when working on bottom mount or side mount slides. It is important to learn how to measure for drawer slides correctly because it will determine the success of the project. It is also useful to locate where the mounting holes are on your old slides, for this you’ll need to match with your new slides or be prepared to make adjustment when needed.

Step 4: Choose the Right Replacement Slides

• Type of Slide Mounting: Here, there are three main types of drawer slides – bottom mount, side mount and undermount, but side mount slides are the most preferred among the DIYers because they are able to replace most of the bottom mounts as well as the other side mounts.
• Soft Close vs. Self-Closing: Soft close drawer slides can be defined as a drawer slide that has a hydraulic damper allowing the drawer to be closed in a gentle manner while self-closing slides have a spring that pulls the door in as long as it is almost closed. You should think of the best moves which can suit your needs.
• Weight Capacity: Be sure to pick the slides which will be compatible with the weight of the drawer and its contents.

After getting your measurements, it is now the right time to select the appropriate replacement slides. There are various categories of the drawer slides available such as side mount drawer slide, bottom mount drawer slide, and the under mount drawer slide. If you have a large number of drawers, then you will have to choose according to the number of drawers you have. If the drawers currently installed in your kitchen have bottom mount, then you should consider getting a replacement with the same style. Also, if your drawers were previously using side glides, it is advisable to replace them with similar replacement dresser drawer slides.

If this is the first time replacing the slides, full extension slides will be ideal especially because it allows access to the whole length of the drawer. Bear in mind the material type too—wood drawer slide replacement could likely to need a different type of screws and brackets from the metal one. New drawer slides must be properly sized so that during the installation you do not end up with parts that do not fit.

Image Source: 45mm Full Extension Dual Spring Soft Close Side Mounted Slide

Maxave has been recommended as a popular brand of drawer slides. Do some research to find the best option for your needs and budget.

Step 5: Check and Adjust Slides for Fit

An important action to perform before installing the new slides will be to check and then adjust them as necessary for fit. The box for which the new slides are to be provided should be a sufficient size and length so that the slides will fit them well. There may be old screw holes that will be needed to be vertically orient or that may be off center by some amount. At this juncture, shims or thin strips of wood become useful to help in achieving a level and strong fit when the surfaces are not all the way flush.

It is worthwhile to achieve this match of the original holes and the new slides; however, if they do not match new ones, then it is worth it to move them closer by marking and pre-drilling the necessary new holes. This will ensure the installation is smooth without needing to fight with the components later on. The most important thing is to be patient- if the fit is not exact, don’t rush it; no need to hurry, make sure that both the slides and the drawer box and cabinet will be placed flush to each other.

Step 6: Install Slides on Cabinet

The next step is the installation of slides on the cabinet. First of all, place the first slide in the inside of the cabinet where the previous slides were installed. Fix the slides using your drill and screws to make sure they are leveled properly. An unlevel slide can cause a drawer to not open or close correctly. Ensure that the cabinet drawer slides are level with the bottom or the side of the cabinet as per the type of slides used.

You should use your tape measure and a level to ensure that one side is parallel to the other. It is often a mistake to accidentally put one slide slightly higher or lower than the other and end up with a crooked drawer. Spend some time to ensure accuracy at this stage because the correct positioning will make the drawer to glide.

Tips: Ensuring Slides Are Level

If possible, use a template to make sure that your drawer slides are level. It will also reduce the chances of the slides being placed in a wrong position since templates can guide the positioning to the correct place. You can also use a piece of wood or a shim to keep the slides level while tightening the screws to hold the slides in place. Just slight misalignments can hinder the smooth running of the drawer when it is being pulled out or pushed in.

Look for spaces on both sides of the drawer slide to ensure that the correct amount of space is being left. If the slides are out of alignment they can rub against the cabinet or create friction and the drawer will be hard to open or close. In some cases, the mounting holes have to be drilled slightly to achieve the desired level of fit, or shims are placed to level the equipment.

Step 7: Attach Slides to Drawer

Afterwards, install the slides to the drawer cabinet. Rest the drawer box on a level area and place new slides on the places of the old ones on the sides of the drawer. Plumb the slides on the bottom of the drawer side’s cut out template and drill pilot holes. It is critical to install the slides adequately not only for their smooth movement but for their reliability. Especially when dealing with heavier dresser drawers.

Next, with a screwdriver or drill, fix screws to the corresponding places. If your slides require a drawer slide bracket replacement, ensure they are firmly fixed and not wobbly which will create alignment issues later. This stage helps in making sure that the slides are mounted correctly within the lines of the slides attached to the cabinet beforehand.

Step 8: Test for Smooth Sliding

• Reinstall the drawer onto the new drawer slides, making sure it is properly seated and aligned.
• Open and close the drawer several times, checking for smooth operation and proper alignment.
• Make any necessary adjustments to the drawer slides or brackets if needed.

After the slides have been attached to the cabinet and the drawer, it is recommended that you carry out a simple test – a drawer test which will inform you how well the drawer performs. Gently pull the drawer out of the cabinet while making sure that the sides of the drawer are firmly set into the installation side slides. Push the drawer in and out a few times to see whether it goes in and out without any friction. This step is important in confirming that the mounting is ok and all parts are operating as intended.

When it comes to the installation, if there is any form of friction, check how the installation has been carried out as it might be due to improper screw tightness and improper leveling of the slides. Large even small tolerances can obstruct smooth operations even on routine tasks. For drawers using full extension slides, make sure they extend fully without any sticking or jams. Performing appropriate checking at this time will help avoid the issues of the drawer being faulty ooperationally in the future.

Troubleshoot Common Slide Issues

At this stage if the drawer is not gliding smoothly then you might face some of the following problems. Among the most common issues, misalignment is one of the most common. In certain instances you might require the removal of screws so as to rectify a situation whereby the slides are not level or properly aligned. Check again the side mount or bottom mount shows on labels if all the setting corresponding to this show is properly arranged.

Another condition is when the drawer shakes excessively or does not have enough resistance when opening or closing which is a problem. This can be solved by adding or removing shims to the appropriate level of spacing. Another tip is looking at the drawer slides and seeing whether the rollers are noisy and therefore needs lubrication or confirming whether the screws are loose. Correct diagnosis will ensure that your drawer will run for many more years without any hitches.

Maintain Slides for Smooth Performance

• Regularly clean the drawer slides with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris.
• Lubricate the slides as needed with a light silicone or Teflon-based lubricant.
• Check for loose screws or other hardware periodically and tighten as needed.

Caring for your drawer slides is as important as ensuring that you get the right installation done. It is recommended to check the mounting holes and screws from time to time to make sure that they are still tight. In case you realize that the slides are rigid or challenging to maneuver, then a little amount of lubrication will go a long way. You should use a silicone based lubricant to lubricate your drawer sliders because it will not attract dust or debris while it will ensure that the drawers slide smoothly.

Also, if the rollers are worn out or the slides are damaged, it is advisable to replace them before the drawer box or the inside of the cabinet is damaged. Maintenance will assist in getting the best out of your replacement drawer slides and avoid the frequent replacement due to poor performance.

FAQ

How often do I need to replace drawer slides?

The frequency of drawer slide replacement is relative to the quality of the slides, the frequency of use and the maintenance of the slides. The best quality drawer slides can serve a homeowner for many years provided they are well maintained.

Do I need to replace both drawer slides at once?

It is recommended that both drawer slides be replaced at the same time to give equal wear and long working life to them as well as smooth functioning of the drawer.

What are the benefits of replacing drawer slides?

Replacing drawer slides can enhance the usability of your drawers, making them more convenient to use and operate more smoothly and quietly. Soft close or self-closing slides can also be installed to give your cabinets or furniture that luxurious look.

What is the average cost to replace drawer glides?

The cost of replacing drawer glides depends on several factors including the type of glides required, the number of drawers that require replacement and whether the work is done by a professional or by the homeowner. The cost of replacing drawer glides can cost anywhere from $2 to $20 per glide and the average homeowner will spend between $100-$150 for a set of glides. When you hire a professional handyman or carpenter to do the work, you will be charged extra for labor, which can cost several hundred dollars more. If you choose to install the work on your own, then ensure that you have the right tools and materials and that you follow the right installation procedures to ensure that you get the right fit and that the work is safe.

What is the difference between soft-closing and self-closing drawer slides?

Soft-closing drawer slides employ a hydraulic damper to close the drawer softly and without noise, while self-closing slides employ a spring to shut the drawer once it reaches a specific position.

Can I reuse the brackets from my old drawer slides?

Sometimes, you can reuse the brackets that came with your old drawer slides, which will save you some money. However, it is always advisable to consult the manufacturer on compatibility with the new slides.

How long does it take to replace drawer slides?

The time it will take to replace drawer slides will depend with the expertise of the person doing the replacement. In fact, it may take a beginner anything between 2-3 hours to complete the process. With practice, you should be able to do it in less than an hour.

What is the most reliable brand of drawer slides available?

Maxave is a reliable brand of drawer slides, known for its high-quality products and innovative designs. We provide premium drawer slides that ensure smooth and effortless movement of drawers, making them a popular choice for various applications.

a. Maxave Soft Close

The Maxave Soft Close drawer slide works very well thanks to a built in hydraulic damper which allows drawers to be shut gently and quietly. It is a side mounted full extension slide and is ideal for installing on or replacing existing drawers and for new cabinets and furniture installations.

Image Source: Soft Close Drawer Slides

b. Maxave Heavy Duty

The Maxave Heavy Duty drawer slide is specifically designed to handle the heaviest of weights and the most challenging applications. High performance construction and ability to provide strong enduring support means that Maxave range of drawer slides have a strong appeal in commercial and industrial applications.

Image Source: Heavy Duty Drawer Slides

Conclusion

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In conclusion, it is possible to state that replacing drawer slides is a relatively easy and efficient method of enhancing the usability and sturdiness of furniture. If you have read this post, you will be able to replace your old or damaged drawer slides by following the steps outlined above. When choosing new drawer slides, it is important to take into account the weight load, the way of mounting and the material of the slides. Furthermore, the questions that are highlighted in this post will help you to select the right and quality brand of drawer slides that will not let you down. By following these tips, you can have furniture that works at its optimum and lasts for many years.