Considering starting a home remodeling project on your own? Does this project include renovating the cabinets in your kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, or hallway? If so, removing and replacing your cabinet hardware is the easiest and least expensive way to update the style and finish of any cabinet, shelf, or door unit. Reinstalling new cabinet hardware is a piece of cake, just follow these guidelines.
Step #1: Be Prepared
Before beginning any home remodeling project, you should always be prepared for what lies ahead. This includes creating a budget, mapping out what you’d like to accomplish, anticipating ’emergency’ funds, and buying or gathering the tools you’ll need to complete the project. Creating a budget can be accomplished quickly by cutting out the unnecessary luxuries you and your family enjoy on a daily basis, like coffee, trips to fast food chains, and whimsical stops at the local mall. You’ll see the savings add up quickly just by skipping these trips without dipping into your paycheck or savings accounts.
Also, gathering the tools you need to be successful with your cabinet hardware replacement is critical. You will need the following items: hammer, screwdriver, level and pencil. Preparing for this home remodeling project will help keep you organized and motivated; Plus, this will eliminate the need to call in a professional, saving you time and money in the long run.
Step #2: Eliminate the monstrosities
Now that you’re ready to start your home hardware project, it’s time to remove any outdated, cracked, mismatched, or worn cabinets, shelves, and door hardware. Most, if not all, of this furniture is secured with screws that surround the mounting hardware. Simply unscrew the screws with your screwdriver (be careful not to remove the screws if you plan on reusing them in the future). Be sure to collect all the screws, hinges, drawer handles, and door knobs to accurately count the pieces of hardware you’ll need to replace.
Step #3: Buy new goods
Now comes the fun part! It’s time to go shopping for your new home hardware parts. This gives you the opportunity to get creative with your remodeling ideals. Door knobs and cabinet hardware come in a variety of materials and finishes; It’s important to consider the overall theme of your home before purchasing your materials. Materials typically include nickel, chrome, iron, brass, copper, glass, and stainless steel. Similarly, door knobs and screws are also available in multiple finishes that can really make or break any style in any room. Traditional finishes include satin, distressed, burnished, or polished. Finally, especially when it comes to doorknobs, choosing the right size for your location can instantly transform your home; Medicine cabinets in kitchens and bathrooms are ideal places to put larger knobs and other accessories.
Step #4: Take a test drive
Before you buy the thirty (or so) replacement parts for your kitchen, bedroom, or bathroom, consider trying out your new hardware. If you were deliberating between two finishes, materials, or sizes, consider purchasing one of each and temporarily installing the pieces to see which you like better. This way, you won’t have to buy two sets of spare parts for the entire room, but you’ll still have a chance to explore your options.
If you’re simply trying to remove and replace your cabinet units as quickly as possible, go for satin nickel door knobs. Nickel goes with virtually any theme, color or pattern you have already established in your home and the satin finish will only enhance and accentuate the look you have created. Be sure to purchase matching screws, hinges, and floor registers to keep the theme of your home consistent.