The Finishing Touch, Kitchen Style!

Top 5 Tips for choosing Cabinet Hardware

Summertime is the perfect time of year to take stock of your home or apartment, evaluating the minor home renovation projects that have been on your conscience year round. While the balmy weather is ideal for outdoor projects such as installing new window panes or painting the exterior of your home, there are plenty of indoor projects that must be addressed as well. One easy do-it-yourself project that can be completed in just one afternoon is replacing your cabinet hardware. Not sure you’re handy enough to complete this task? Here are a few helpful tips to ensure a successful and headache-free project no matter who you are.

Tip #1: Evaluate Your Home

Believe it or not, when it comes to replacing your cabinet hardware, it’s better to go big. Meaning, you should evaluate every room in your home for any worn or outdated cabinet fixtures. Also, by replacing multiple cabinet accessories simultaneously, you will also be sure to create a cohesive look that will compliment any style choices. Be sure to include your living room, family room, kitchen and dining areas, as well as bathrooms and bedrooms.

Tip #2: Do Your Homework

Sure, it may seem like reinstalling drawer handles is a no-brainer, but without doing the proper preparation, you could easily be paying more than you need to for less than attractive hardware units. Research your options and consider updating your home with a new material—such as bronze cabinet hardware, pewter, stainless steel, iron or nickel. Also, choose a complimentary finish such as satin, weathered, burnished or polished. Be sure to do your research; compare stores (both online and not) and their prices. 

Tip#3: Make a List, Check it Twice

Let’s face it, home renovation projects can be a headache—especially when it comes to smaller items. Imagine your frustration if you complete the project and are only missing just one matching screw or hinge. When preparing to purchase new cabinet hardware, make a list of each item you will need. Include the style, size, color and finish, if applicable. Additionally, note how many items are needed for each room you are renovating.

Tip #4: Try Something New

When it comes to trying out your inner interior designer, it could be a risky endeavor, especially if it is a larger project. Since you are merely replacing kitchen cabinet pulls, it will certainly be easier to remedy any accidents or miscalculations. One unique way to update your home’s design is to install your cabinet restoration hardware in a layered manner. Starting with the cabinet units closest to the floor, devise a look that incorporates tiers of different complimentary finishes or materials. One great design concept is to work from darkest to lightest, installing the lightest colors or materials closest to light fixtures or the ceiling.

Tip #5: Install and Enjoy

With all the hard work out of the way, you are now ready to install your new cabinet knobs and pulls. The easiest method to install your new hardware is to mark where you plan to screw in the knob and corresponding hinges with a pencil or light marker. This way, you can measure precisely with each cabinet door. If you are attempting to renovation multiple rooms in your home, enlist other individuals to help make the process go even faster. By drilling the appropriate holes, your friends or family members can go around and screw in the screws and hinges, saving you time in the long run.

Bonus Tip:  Maintain Your Décor

Now that you are enjoying your stylish new interior, you should remember to maintain your look. If you plan to alter your paint colors, wall paper or curtains, be sure to consider how they will look with your new cabinet hardware. Also, one great way to keep your cabinet knobs looking fresh and like-new is to frequently polish or wipe down the fixtures with appropriate cleanser.