Changing out door knobs and drawer pulls is one of the fastest, simplest and most inexpensive ways to makeover the look of an outdated kitchen. Visit your local hardware or home improvement store to find the latest looks. Then look online or an architectural thrift store like Habitat for Humanity's Re-Store - chances are you can find them for a better price.
Types1. Knobs. Knobs are a single handle that is attached to the door or drawer with one screw. You can attach the knob alone or use a backplate to add to the knob's visual weight or presence. Size can range from 3/4" to 2" and in style and complexity from a single, unfinished wood knob to an elaborate iron sculptural handle. Knobs aren't always round, they can be square, oblong or irregular.
2. Pulls. They do the same job as knobs, but are larger and made so that fingers give leverage. They are attached with two screws, one on each end. The normal spread between the two screws is 2 3/4 to 3 1/2 from center of the screw to center. They come in styles with or without backplates.
3. Hinges. Hinges keep the door stable and are usually made in limited styles. Specially designed hinges can be found, but they are usually expensive. Just go with a finish and metal that will match and spend the bulk of your money on the pulls or knobs.
Styles
There are styles of hardware to go with any decorating styles. Below is a general overview of styles and hardware types:
1. Rustic or Mission: Wrought iron or hand-forged metal knobs or pulls work best for this style, although new styles in a brushed copper are being introduced.
2. Traditional: Think brass, nickel, and pewter. These metals can come with a brushed, polished or hand-rubbed finish.
3. Colonial: Wooden and handcrafted knobs and pulls are perfect for this style.
4. Modern or Contemporary: High gloss, satin, or brushed metal nickel or stainless steel finishes work well with the clean lines of these styles. But other metals are being introduced in a variety of finishes.
PlacementIf you are placing hardware on a new drawer under 18 inches, usually one pull or knob is sufficient. If the drawer is over 18 inches, two knobs or pulls should be used. If. for example, the drawer is 24 inches wide, each pull should be 4 inches from the side of the drawer. In other words, divide the total length of the drawer by 6 to find the center of the knob or pull at each end. The knob should also be placed slightly above the vertical center.
If you are replacing old hardware, use the old holes. If you can't find new hardware to fit the old holes, you can drill new holes. Then either fill the old holes with wood putty or use a backplate to cover the old holes.
How many hinges do you need for your cabinet doors? Here is a guide:
40" high - 2 hinges40"-59"high - 3 hinges
60" to 79" high - 4 hinges
80" to 85" high - 5 hinges
There are a wide range of choices in hardware today. You can always check out the latest thing at stores and online. But in the end, it comes down to what you fall in love with. If you love it, you will be satisfied with the look of your kitchen makeover. Happy hardware hunting!
