In a depressed economy, most of us can't afford to make home renovations. This makes it very difficult if we want to enjoy a new look - or if we want to sell the house and spruce it up before we do so. One great way to create a quick renovation in the kitchen without spending a great deal is by changing the cabinet pulls or cabinet handles. While costing a small amount, this small change can make a big difference in the kitchen décor. Here is a quick guide to installing cabinet pulls, even for the novice renovator.
Step 1 - Count It All
Before you purchase new cabinet pulls, and invest your money in this project, it's important to know how much hardware you will need. Nothing is more frustrating that realizing you've purchased three extra 2.5 inch cabinet pulls and now have nothing to do with them. Make sure to thoroughly count every cabinet, drawer, door and closet where you hope to install new cabinet pulls. Have someone else in the house double check your numbers as well.
Step 2 - Measure It Out
Now, it's time to measure the distance between the center of the screw holes to know what size cabinet pulls you'll need. The easiest way to do your renovation project is to purchase new cabinet pulls that are the same size the old ones were. Why have to close up holes and drill new holes, if you can simply find the same size 12 inch cabinet pulls or 3.5 inch cabinet pulls to fit the existing space? Once you know the exact size of your space, you'll be able to shop for the inch pulls by size, making it a much easier and smoother purchase and installation.
Step 3 - Let's Shop!
Now, the fun begins. Once you know which size inch pulls you need, you can have fun shopping for a new look. If you're shopping for your own renovations, then think about the cabinets that you already have and make sure to match the new cabinet pulls to your existing colors and style. If you're hoping to sell the house, then consider purchasing brass cabinet pulls or satin nickel cabinet handles, as these will catch the eye of the potential buyer.
Step 4 - Out with the Old, In with the New
Once your cabinet pulls arrive, you're ready to begin the installation process. Remove your existing cabinet pulls using a screwdriver to dislodge the screws. If the screws aren't budging, try putting some W-D40 or Goo Gone on the screw heads. Let the substance dry and then try again. This should work to dislodge the screws. Now, install the new cabinet pulls in the same location where the old pulls were. Take a new screw and place it in the existing hole, starting from the inside of the drawer. Using a screwdriver or Allen wrench, turn the screw through the hole and into the hole of the new cabinet pull. Take a look from the front of the drawer at your new hardware. If you like the look and fit of the 2.5 inch cabinet pulls you've purchased, you can tighten the screws and place the cabinet pull into place.
Step 5 - Other Tips
If you plan to paint or refinish the cabinets, drawers or doors as part of this process, make sure to do so after you've removed the old cabinet handles and before you've installed the new ones. This will ensure that you cover the entire surface with the new paint or refinishing and it will ensure that your new hardware doesn't get painted on or ruined.
You're ready to host a T.V. show about home renovations! You've successfully installed your new pulls - whether they were 3 inch cabinet pulls or 8 inch cabinet pulls - and you can bask in the glory of a job well done. Now, you're ready to admire your work for years of great use - or to sell the house at its true value.
Romi Sussman has written dozens of articles offering easy home renovation tips for the kitchen, bath, and bedroom. She is partial to her 2.5 inch cabinet pulls and loves their stately appearance.
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