Tips for Buying Drawer Slides Online

Posted Tue, 02/02/2010 - 19:45 by The Hardware Guy

When every detail matters, when everything needs to be perfect, only the best hardware will do. Whether a cabinet manufacturer is producing quality products for his clients or a homeowner is seeking to improve the appearance and function of his house, choosing the best products initially will provide the best results for years to come. When you need to build quality into each and every piece, each choice you make, from the wood and the handles to the finish and the drawer slides, impacts your finished product. How do you know you are getting the best? Here are some tips for choosing slides online.

Before you go virtual shopping for your drawer hardware, it is important to do a little preliminary work so you know exactly what you need. Perhaps the most important question to consider is what type of slide will work best for your product. Should it be a partial extension or full extension model? Should it be non self-closing, self-closing or soft closing? It is helpful to have an understanding of the different types of slides, especially if you are a homeowner without extensive experience.

• Ball bearing slides. These are used with drawers that have a ¼ inch mortise on the drawer side. This is a cavity cut into the wood of the drawer that will receive the slide. Drawer stops are included with this type of slide.
• Full extension slides. These run the maximum length of the drawer, and drawer stops keep it from sliding out. You can also get ¾ extension slides, which extend ¾ of the length of the slides.
• Center mount slides. Center-mount slides attach on the underside of the drawer so hardware isn’t visible. Center mount drawer slides are the right choice for light duty applications of less than 30lbs,
• Side mount slides. These are more durable than center bottom slides and are rated from 60lbs to over 500lbs.
• Euro style slides. These are L-shaped and affix to the bottom of the drawer and are intended for economy applications.

When searching online, make sure you look for the following features:

• Application. A drawer for use in a pantry or for tools will be very different than one used for silverware or in a desk. Get the best slide for the drawer’s purpose.
• Load rating. Slides, such as Accuride, are weight tested. This ties in very closely with application. The tool drawer will have a much higher load rating than one for the silverware, for instance.
• Disconnect. How should the drawer be released from the cabinet, if you want it removed at all? Some drawers simply pull straight out, others have friction or lever release.
• Lengths. Again, very basic but very important. Double check your measurements so you have the right part for the job.
• Shock absorption. One of the biggest causes of damage to drawers is hard closing. Many slides are designed to absorb the shock, which both quiets the closing and prevents damage over time. Many sliders, such as the Accuride model 3832EC, prevent the drawer from rolling out or bouncing back when closed.
• BHMA certification. The Building Hardware Manufacturers Association sets industry standards to ensure that products perform optimally and safely.

As important as all of these factors are the reputation of the supplier from whom you are going to order is equally important. Look for establishments that offer user-friendly sites, easy ordering, excellent customer service, and a streamlined, convenient process. All of this provides insight into the character of the company and will help you determine if you should order your slides from them. Choose a site that offers a lifetime warranty and/or a 100% refund policy.

Quality is not just a great looking finished product; it is in each detail of your work. While they are behind-the-scenes tools, slides are an integral part of any home or business. Get the best so you can create the best.

To learn more about Blum drawer slides as well as many other brands, click here.

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