Are you considering beginning a do-it-yourself home remodeling project? Does this project include freshening up your kitchen, bathroom, bedroom or hallway cabinets? If so, removing and replacing your cabinet hardware accessories 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 cinch-just follow these guidelines.
Step #1: Be Prepared
Prior to beginning any home remodeling project, you should always be prepared for what is in store for you. This includes creating a budget, mapping out what you would like to accomplish, anticipating ’emergency’ funds and purchasing or gathering the tools you will need to complete the project. Creating a budget can be quickly accomplished by eliminating any unnecessary luxuries you and your family enjoy on a daily basis such as coffee, trips to fast food chains and on-a-whim stops to the local mall. You’ll see the savings amass quickly just by skipping these trips without having to dip into your pay check or savings accounts.
Additionally, gathering the tools you need to succeed in replacing cabinet hardware is critical. You’ll need the following items: hammer, screw driver, level and pencil. Preparing for this home remodeling project will help keep you organized and motivated; also, this will eliminate any need to call in a professional – which will save you time and money in the long run.
Step #2: Remove the Eyesores
Now that you are ready to begin your home hardware project, it’s time to remove the outdated, cracked, mismatched or worn cabinets, shelves and door hardware. Most – if not all – of these pieces of furniture are secured with screws surrounding the mounting pieces. Simply unscrew screws with your screwdriver (be careful not to strip the screws if you plan on reusing them in the future). Be sure to collect all screws, hinges, drawer pulls and door knobs so you have an accurate count of the hardware pieces you will need to replace.
Step #3: Purchase New Goods
Now for the fun part! It’s time to go window shopping for your new home hardware pieces. This gives you the chance to get creative with your remodeling ideals. Door knobs and cabinet accessories come in a variety of materials and finishes; it is important to consider your home’s overall theme prior to purchasing your materials. Materials typically include nickel, chrome, iron, brass, copper, glass and stainless steel. Likewise, door knobs and screws also are available in multiple finishes that can truly make – or break-any style in any room. Traditional finishes include satin, weathered, burnished or polished. Finally, especially when it comes to door knobs, choosing the appropriate sizing based on location can truly transform your home instantaneously; kitchens and bathroom medicine cabinets are ideal places for larger knobs and other fixtures.
Step #4: Go for a Test Drive
Before you purchase all thirty (give or take a few) replacement pieces for your kitchen, bedroom or bathroom, consider giving your new hardware a test drive. If you were deliberating between two finishes, materials or sizes, consider purchasing one of each and temporarily installing the pieces to see which grows on you the most. This way, you won’t have to purchase two sets of replacement parts for your entire room but you will get the chance to explore your options.
If you’re simply trying to just remove and replace your cabinetry units as quickly as possible, opt for satin nickel door knobs. Nickel virtually matches any theme, colors, or patterns that you may have already established in your home and the satin finish will only glamorize and accentuate the look you’ve created. Be sure to purchase matching screws, hinges and floor registers to keep your home’s theme consistent.
