If you’re looking to upgrade your drawers, you might be considering replacing the runners or slides. Drawer runners are essential components of any cabinet or furniture, ensuring that the drawers open and close smoothly and securely. The right drawer runners can make a significant difference in the usability and durability of your drawers. In this article, we’ll discuss some tips for choosing the best drawer runners for your needs.
Types Of Drawer Runners
Before we dive into the selection process, let’s take a look at the various types of drawer runners available.
Side-Mounted Runners
Side-mounted runners are the most common type of drawer runners, and they attach to the side of the drawer and the cabinet. These runners come in various styles, including ball-bearing, epoxy-coated, and nylon. They are easy to install and offer a smooth and quiet operation.
Undermount Runners
Undermount runners are becoming increasingly popular in modern kitchens and furniture. These runners attach to the bottom of the drawer and the sides of the cabinet. They offer a sleek and contemporary look and provide smooth and silent operation.
Centre-Mounted Runners
Centre-mounted runners attach to the centre of the drawer bottom and the centre of the cabinet. They are a popular choice for older furniture and can be easily replaced. However, they offer limited weight capacity and can be challenging to install.
Choosing The Right Load Capacity
The load capacity of the drawer runners is an essential consideration when selecting the right runners for your application. Drawer runners come in a range of weight capacities, and it’s crucial to choose the right capacity based on the weight of the items you plan to store in the drawers.
If you overload the drawer, it can cause the runners to fail prematurely, resulting in damage to the drawer or the cabinet. It’s always better to choose runners with a higher load capacity than you think you’ll need to avoid this issue.
Choosing The Right Size
Drawer runners come in different lengths and sizes to fit various drawer and cabinet dimensions. It’s crucial to measure your drawers and cabinets accurately to select the right size of runners. When measuring the length of the drawer runners, be sure to measure the length of the cabinet opening and not the length of the drawer itself.
Also, consider the thickness of the drawer and the cabinet when selecting the runners. The runners should fit snugly inside the cabinet and provide enough clearance for the drawer to slide in and out smoothly.
Installation Process
The installation process for drawer runners varies depending on the type of runners and the application. Side-mounted runners are the easiest to install and require attaching them to the side of the drawer and the cabinet. Undermount runners require attaching them to the bottom of the drawer and the sides of the cabinet, which can be a bit more challenging but offers a sleek and contemporary look.
Before installing the runners, be sure to clean the drawer and the cabinet thoroughly to ensure a secure attachment. You may need to adjust the runners’ height to ensure that the drawer sits level and opens and closes smoothly. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when installing the runners to ensure proper installation.
Maintenance
Proper maintenance of the drawer runners is essential to ensure their longevity and proper operation. Over time, dust, dirt, and debris can accumulate on the runners and affect their performance. It’s essential to clean the runners periodically to remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated.
You can use a soft cloth or mild detergent to clean the runners. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasives that can damage the runners’ finish. Also, lubricating the runners periodically can help improve their performance and ensure smooth operation.
When lubricating the runners, be sure to use a lubricant specifically designed for drawer runners. Apply the oil sparingly, as too much lubrication can attract dust and debris.
Conclusion
Upgrading your drawer runners is an excellent way to improve the functionality and durability of your drawers. When selecting the right runners for your application, consider the weight capacity, size, style, and installation process. Proper maintenance of the runners is essential to ensure their longevity and proper operation.
Whether you’re looking to replace worn-out runners or upgrade to a more modern style, choosing the right runners can make a significant difference in the usability and durability of your drawers. With the right runners, your drawers will open and close smoothly and securely, making your daily tasks more manageable and efficient.
