The drawers are really beneficial for kitchen cabinets, side-tables by the bed or even for the desks. If you are doing a project that involves installing a drawer in it, then you have to know – how to install drawer slides. While there are different types of drawer slides available, it is better to use the ball-bearing drawer slides with the right load capacity. This type of drawer slide helps to get the most of your drawers. So, if you are here for the instructions about installing drawer slides in your DIY (do it yourself) project, then read on. We have provided step by step guide to make your work easier and better.
Tools and materials for installing drawer slides
You will definitely need a ball-bearing drawer slide for this project. Makes sure you are buying the best ball-bearing drawer slides with full extension drawing capability. Besides that, some of the tools that are needed for the installation process are:
- Drill or a driver
- Pencil (for marking)
- Measuring tape
- Ruler
It takes about 20 minutes to install the drawer slides successfully in your project.
Steps-by-step guide for drawer slides installation
Here is a complete step-by-step guide that will help you to install the drawer slides successfully. Follow these:
- Step 1: Mark where the slider has to be placed
You have to measure from the inside floor of the desk or cabinet you are making. Mark the required height that you want in both front as well as back side of the wall. By using the marks and ruler too, draw one straight line across the wall on both the sides. Make sure that the marking is accurate and clear so that you can understand where to install the slides.
- Step 2: Installation of slides
Now that you have marked the place where the slider will be placed, it is time for the installation process. First, you have to hold it firmly in the right place and then push the extension. Continuing to do so unless and until the two sets of screw holes are completely visible. Or you can use a driver or a drill for creating a hole in screw holes along the front and back of the slides. Repeat this to install the slider on the other side as well.
- Step 3: Marking of drawer slides
The next thing that you have to do is to use a measuring tape and then mark the center of the drawer box’s height. Now, using a ruler, you have to mark one horizontal line along the outside of the drawer box on both the sides.
- Step 4: Positioning the slide extension
You have to remove the section which is detachable from both drawer slides. Now, place that on the corresponding side of your drawer. You have to position the drawer slides in such way that they are at the center of the corresponding line. Then you can flush with the face of your drawer box.
- Step 5: Attaching the drawer slides to the drawers
You can use the driver or the drill along with the screws that are provided while purchasing the drawer slides for mounting the slides to your drawer. Once it is done, you can insert the drawer to the desk or cabinet you are making. For that, you need to hold the drawer at the level in front of the desk of cabinet and the place the ends of your slides to the tracks placed in the cabinet. You have to push it a bit harder for the first time. But once the drawer slides are engaged properly, it will work smoothly and efficiently.
Troubleshooting
If your drawer slides are not functioning properly, there are a few things you can check. Make sure the slides are level and securely attached. You may also need to adjust the placement of the slides or use spacers to ensure a proper fit.
Conclusion
These are some of the easy to follow steps that you have to follow for installing the drawer slides. Well, it is now clear to you about how to install drawer slides successfully and effectively. Installing drawer slides may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and a little patience, it can be done easily. By following this step-by-step guide, you can have smooth and functional drawers in no time. Have any tips or tricks for installing drawer slides? Share them in the comments below.