Transform Your Kitchen: The Ultimate Guide to Updating Cabinet Hardware
Cabinets are a useful storage solution for all our stuff without our homes looking like messes. They offer us unmatched convenience and thus we need to take care of them. One of the great ways to keep them functional is by updating them.
Updating your cabinets’ hardware is one of the best ways to give your kitchen a refreshed and modern look without needing a complete renovation. Small changes can make a significant impact towards your space more contemporary and functional.
Instal New Latches
Number one on the list is a durable and long-lasting latch system. They’re often overlooked but they play a crucial role in both the functionality and the aesthetic appeal of your kitchen cabinets. They prevent your cabinets from swinging open and keep them securely tied to their frames when you don’t use them.
They come with a lot of benefits too. For starters, they prevent dust from entering your cabinets and protect the things stored inside. They also protect your stuff from animals and kids who are determined to open your cupboards. And they come quite handy when there’s an earthquake as they keep the cabinet doors from opening.
How to install a good latch? Before beginning the installation process, it is crucial to determine where you want your latches to be placed. Keep in mind that the latches will be installed on the opposite side of the hinge on the frame. Then put the cabinet latch in the designated location and draw a hole with a pencil, remove the latch and drill the holes into the pencil drawings.
Next, screw the latch into place. After securing it, inspect where the latch makes contact with the door and mark that spot using a pencil. Then create screw holes and insert the screws into the door, completing the installation process for your new latches. These sturdy additions will effectively secure your cabinet door and protect its contents.
When choosing latches, consider the material to ensure that the latches are high-quality and also complement your decor. There are latches made from stainless steel that are resistant to corrosion, making them suitable for any type of cabinet especially in humid environments such as the kitchen or the bathroom. There are also zinc-plated ones that are known for their durability, so pick the ones that work for you.
Replace Old Knobs and Pulls
Then, it’s time to move on to the more aesthetic part of the cabinets, which are the knobs and pulls. Aside from their function, they also give the cabinets a better aesthetic and they almost determine the mood. Although seemingly unimportant, they play a crucial role in the overall look of the cabinets.
Choose them according to your interior design – if you have a more traditional kitchen, opt for more ornate designs in bronze or brass, whereas for a modern layout, go for minimalist shapes with finishes like matte black. Replacing them is quite straightforward.
First, you need to remove the old hardware. and align the new knob or pull with the existing hole to ensure a proper fit. Once aligned, use screws to secure it in place. If the new hardware requires different hole spacing, you need to fill the old holes and drill new ones ensuring the new placement is evenly spaced.
Update Hindges
Updating your hinges can improve both the look and functionality of your cabinets. Soft-close hinges are becoming more and more popular, preventing doors from slamming shut and adding a touch of luxury. There are also concealed hinges that offer a cleaner, seamless appearance by hiding the hardware inside the cabinet. To update your hinges start by removing the cabinet doors are unscrewing the old hinges. Then, measure and mark the placement for the new one. Drill holes and attach the hinges to the cabinet frame and then just reattach the door.
Change Drawer Slides
Updating drawer slides can greatly improve the functionality of your drawers. Modern drawer slides such as soft-close or full-extenion slides, offer a smoother operation and better access to the contents of your drawers. They prevent them from slamming shut and allow you to pull the drawer out completely, making it easier to reach items at the back. To change the drawer slides, remove the drawer completely and unscrew the existing slides. Then measure and mark the placement and finally attach the new slides to the drawer and the cabinet and reinsert the drawer.
Maintenance
Maintaining your new cabinet hardware is essential to keep it looking and functioning at its best. Regular cleaning with a soft cloth will prevent the build-up of grime and grease. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbers that can scratch the surface and damage the hardware.
Upgrading your cabinet hardware is a powerful method to completely change the look and feel of your kitchen. Whether you choose to install new latches or replace old knobs and pulls, each step contributes to a refreshed, modern and functional look. With careful selection and proper installation, your kitchen can achieve a stunning makeover.