Don’t ignore your cabinet hardware
As a child, you were most likely told to clean your room. Did you try to put everything under your bed and in your closet? Most likely, you got caught, and then you had to spend more time tidying up your room. As adults, we are guilty of a similar crime: putting pots, pans, and food in our cupboards and pantries. Have you ever taken the time to examine the doors behind which you hide items? Over the years, nicks, dents, cracks, and spills accumulate in kitchen cabinet hardware and inevitably illustrate a worn-out home, stains and all. But just like we were told as kids, you can’t ignore the reality that you need to replace your cabinet hardware!
Check it out and throw it away
Evaluate the cabinets in both your kitchen and bathroom. Look for major issues like wood chips and cracked frames, as well as loose hinges, crooked hangers, stubborn drawer slides, and missing nails. Of course, save what you can. Even if your cabinets are outdated and the finish is unsightly, a quick sandpaper and refinish will save you more money than simply buying a new set of cabinets. However, you must also let the past be past; if you can’t easily reverse the damage, throw it away or add it to your woodpile!
Compare Home Hardware Prices
While installing new cabinet units is fairly easy, it’s also easy to forget about all the items needed for this project. Be sure to write down the number of nails, hinges, and cabinet handles you will need. It’s always better to buy a few extra items in case something goes wrong. Plus, buying these items in bulk can save you a few pennies that definitely add up over time.
mix and match
With all of your cabinet items purchased, you’re ready to reinstall your new fixtures. However, not all cabinets are the same. Appliances in your kitchen that are often carelessly pulled or slammed should be fitted with thicker, more durable cabinet pulls, such as stainless steel. Other cabinet knobs should complement your appliances and the overall style previously established in the kitchen. Don’t add fancy colors or jagged-edged knobs. Rather, the simple French country kitchen knobs will suit any homeowner’s tastes and can be purchased to match any color scheme. For an ultra-modern feel, opt for glass knobs that are strong, timeless, and can be created to match specific patterns.
By contrast, bathroom cabinet knobs are primarily decorative and are a great place to install novelty knobs in fun and interesting shapes, colors, and sizes. Consider using larger knobs for shelves that are used more often or are harder to reach; This will keep you from falling off chairs and tables while you’re grabbing the little handle!
Safety and security options
In addition to choosing what interesting styles and colors your cabinet’s millwork and knobs should include, you should also consider safety devices. Young children love to climb and play with pots and pans. That’s why it’s absolutely critical that all kitchen cabinet hardware is properly tightened and installed so that no loose nails, hinges or handles cause accidents when weight is applied. Safety locks and latches can be easily installed in the top corner of each cabinet.
Chances are, you store harmful chemicals under your sink or in your bathroom. Deployable latches are the easiest to install to prevent accidental spillage or ingestion; However, these security items are easily cracked, so be sure to keep an eye on your little ones!
To deter guests and children, install cabinets with finger holes; the finger wells are hard to see and even harder to use (for kids). If you’re really worried about prying hands, just install a key box that locks sliding cabinets and hinged doors.
