Installing roller runners involves a straightforward process of carefully marking, positioning, and securing the slide components to both the cabinet and the drawer before finally inserting the drawer.
Roller runners are a common type of drawer runner known for their simplicity and durability. They typically consist of two parts: one that attaches to the cabinet and one that attaches to the drawer, with rollers allowing smooth movement.
Follow these steps to install roller runners for your drawer:
Installation Steps
Here is a breakdown of the process based on standard installation practices:
Step 1: Mark and Position the Slides
Begin by determining the desired height and location for the drawer within the cabinet opening.
- Measure and mark a horizontal line inside the cabinet where the lower edge of the cabinet slide will sit.
- Use a level to ensure the line is perfectly straight, as uneven slides will cause the drawer to stick.
- Position the cabinet slide along this marked line, aligning the front edge of the slide with the front of the cabinet opening (or slightly back, depending on your cabinet design).
Step 2: Install the Slides (Cabinet Part)
Once the position is marked, secure the cabinet portion of the roller runner.
- Hold the cabinet slide firmly in place on the marked line.
- Use screws appropriate for your cabinet material to fasten the slide through the designated holes.
- Install the corresponding slide on the opposite side of the cabinet opening at the exact same height. Accuracy here is crucial for the drawer to run smoothly and squarely.
Step 3: Mark the Sides (Drawer Part)
Now, prepare the drawer for the other half of the roller runner.
- Place the drawer upside down or on its side in a stable position.
- Measure and mark a line on the outside of the drawer side panel where the center of the drawer slide will be located. For most roller slides, this line should be slightly above the bottom edge of the drawer side.
- Repeat this marking on the opposite side of the drawer.
Step 4: Position the Slide Extension
The drawer part of the roller runner needs to be correctly positioned on the drawer side.
- Separate the drawer part of the slide from the cabinet part (if they came assembled).
- Align the drawer slide component with the marked line on the drawer side. Ensure the front end of the slide is flush with the front face of the drawer box.
Step 5: Install the Drawer Slides
Secure the drawer portion of the roller runner to the drawer box.
- Hold the drawer slide component in position on the marked line.
- Use appropriate screws to attach the slide firmly to the drawer side through the available screw holes.
- Install the corresponding drawer slide component on the opposite side of the drawer, ensuring it is level and parallel to the first slide.
Step 6: Insert the Drawer
With both parts installed, the final step is to place the drawer into the cabinet.
- Carefully align the rollers on the cabinet slides with the tracks on the drawer slides.
- Push the drawer gently into the cabinet. It should slide in smoothly. If it catches or is difficult to push, check the alignment and levelness of the slides on both the cabinet and the drawer. Adjust as needed.
Following these steps will help you successfully install roller runners for your drawers, ensuring smooth and reliable operation.
