Cabinet Hardware

Cabinet hardware like hinges and pulls are more than just an add-on to your kitchen cabinets. Here is a brief list of what you should look out for when you go cabinet hardware shopping:

Customize cabinet hardware to your specifications. Since most cabinets are custom or semi-custom, picking the right fixtures should be the customer’s choice not the factory's.

When you get a look at the sample board of knobs, pulls, and hinges, catches and fasteners don't get dazzled by the fashion statement. The main purpose here is to find pieces that blend into the overall design of your kitchen, not overwhelm it.

Height and weight of cabinet doors determine how many hinges you need. If too few hinges are installed onto heavy doors, too much stress is put on the hinges under repetitive use and the hinge and door will either break or pull out. Here’s a rough guide:

• 2 hinges – Cabinet doors that are 40 inches high and less then 11 pounds
• 3 hinges – 40 - 60 inches high and 13 - 20 pounds
• 4 hinges – 60 - 80 inches high and 29 - 33 pounds
• 5 hinges – 80 - 85 inches high and 40 - 48 pounds

Pulls are similar to knobs but take up more space on the drawer front and are usually a bolder, more noticeable statement than knobs. Bring along an old pull to compare the size at the retailer. One possibility, if the pulls are a must have, but they don't fit into the pre-existing holes of the drawer front, use a back plate along with the pull to cover the old markings.

Cabinet hardware installation must be done properly or the kitchen won't function optimally. For best results have the contractor or the master carpenter at least oversee the job. Don't leave this one to the day labourers. As you consider which hardware finish to buy, look to your kitchen faucet for clues. If your kitchen faucet has an aged brass finish, use the same finish on your hardware and any interior door hardware and window locks.