How to Change Cabinet Hardware

If you want to update the look of your kitchen, details count. One quick way to add some pizazz to your cabinets is to change the hardware. With just a little bit of handiwork and a little bit of time, you will have your cabinets looking fresher.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Take inventory of your hardware. Have an accurate count of each kind of handle that is in your kitchen. Many cabinets have a knob, which is the easiest to replace because there is only one screw. If you're replacing a piece with more than one screw, measure the distance between the two. If your new hardware doesn't match up with the old hardware, there will be a couple of extra steps involved.

2. Choose new hardware. The kind you choose will depend on what kind of look you want your kitchen to have. For example, sleek, silver pulls will help achieve a more modern look while decorative knobs might be better for a traditional look.

3. Remove existing hardware. Use whatever sort of system works best for you. Taking everything off at once would be best if your new hardware matches up with the old hardware. Doing one cabinet door at a time might be better if you need to make new holes and fill old ones.

4. Screw new hardware into place. If you have to drill new holes, use a template to ensure that they are in the same spot on each cabinet.

5. Fill old holes with wood filler and refinish the surface. You will only need to do this if you made new holes for your new cabinet hardware.

Resources

• Knobs and Hardware features a huge selection of cabinet hardware.
• Find information and inspiration for your ideal kitchen at Kitchens.com.