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Do I use glue or screws? What tools do I need to make sure I don’t damage my finish? What appliances can I purchase to match my cabinets? These are some common questions renovators ask themselves when wondering how to install cabinet handles and knobs. This week, we’ll be teaching you how to install knobs and handles on your kitchen cabinets, as well as providing you with a list of appliances you can purchase directly from our store to match your cabinetry!
Tools You’ll Need:
Pencil
Tape Measurer
Drill & Screws
Screwdriver or Drill Bit
Adhesive Putty (Optional)
Cabinet Hardware Installation Template (Optional)
Mapping Out the Knobs and Handles
Now that you have your cabinetry’s finish complete and knobs or pulls on hand, it’s time to install cabinet handles and knobs! The optional items we have listed above, including the adhesive putty and cabinet hardware installation template, are there to help you envision what the final product will look like before making any holes.
Using your template and a pencil, make small marks on your cabinetry where you’d like to see the hardware. Now, using the adhesive putty, stick it to both the leg of your knob or handle and to the marks you made on your cabinetry. Adjust this positioning until you find the perfect spot for your hardware.
You can still do this without the optional materials provided above. Find the desired location for your hardware, and use a tape measure to locate the center. Make small pencil marks at the center. If your hardware has two connecting points like a handle, you’ll need to make two pencil marks where those points will be screwed into the cabinetry.
Installing Your Cabinetry’s Hardware
Now that you have your penciled marks in the desired place, use your drill to make a hole slightly smaller than the screws for your cabinet’s hardware. Once the holes are in place, from the back drill your screws in gently so you don’t make any cracks or damage the wood.
From here, remove the screws and hold the hardware in place over the holes. By hand, screw in the screws until it’s too difficult to continue. Now use your screwdriver, or drill and drill bit to gently install those screws completely. It’s important you do this gently so you don’t strip the screws. Continue this process throughout all your cabinets, and enjoy!
Special Note: Make sure your hardware isn’t too close to one another, causing them to touch or rub against each other.
Appliances Made to Match Your Cabinetry
Don’t add appliances that will only degrade the hard work you’ve just done. There are plenty of appliances on our online store that will not only look stylish with your cabinetry, but you won’t have to break the bank to do it.
ZLINE 30 in. Professional True Convection Double Wall Oven with Air Fry and Self Clean in Black Stainless Steel (WADB-30)
$3,239.99
$3,599.99
Luxury isn’t meant to be desired - it’s meant to be attainable. The ZLINE 30 in. Professional True Convection Double Wall Oven with Air Fry and Self Clean in Black Stainless Steel (WADB-30) provides a professional culinary experience by pairing… Read More
This Wall Oven by ZLINE is available in both Stainless Steel and Black Stainless Steel and is designed to seamlessly fit into your kitchen’s cabinetry!
ZLINE Dishwashers are perfect for matching your kitchen’s cabinets. They offer several different door finishes like oil-rubbed bronze, blue gloss, and panel-ready. The panel-ready Dishwasher is made to be completely customizable, so you can add any style finish to match your kitchen’s colors.
Now that you have the kitchen cabinets of your dreams, pour yourself a glass of wine and enjoy the view! Don’t forget to follow us on social media for special offers and resources to help you throughout your renovation journey!
FAQs
Should I use screws or adhesive to install cabinet knobs and handles?
Cabinet knobs and handles should always be installed with screws for long-term durability. Adhesive putty is useful only as a temporary tool to visualize placement before drilling, not as a permanent mounting solution.
What tools do I need to install cabinet hardware without damaging the finish?
A tape measure, pencil, drill, screwdriver, and the correct screws are essential. Using a drill bit slightly smaller than the screw size and tightening the screws slowly helps prevent cracking, chipping, or stripping the cabinet finish.
How do I make sure my cabinet handles are evenly aligned?
Consistent measurements are key. Measuring from the same reference point on each door or drawer ensures uniform placement. A cabinet hardware installation template can help maintain straight lines and consistent spacing, especially in larger kitchens.
Where should knobs and pulls be placed on cabinet doors and drawers?
Placement depends on cabinet style and personal preference. Knobs are typically centered on drawer fronts or placed at the corner of cabinet doors, while pulls are usually installed horizontally on drawers and vertically on doors. The goal is balance, comfort, and visual consistency across the kitchen.
Can I install cabinet hardware without a template?
Yes. A template is helpful but not required. Careful measuring, light pencil marks, and test positioning with adhesive putty can achieve professional-looking results without specialized tools.
How close can cabinet handles be installed without touching?
Handles should be spaced far enough apart to avoid rubbing or collision when doors and drawers are opened simultaneously. Checking clearance before drilling prevents functional and aesthetic issues later.
Does cabinet hardware affect the overall kitchen design?
Absolutely. Hardware acts as jewelry for your cabinetry. Matte black hardware creates a modern or industrial feel, polished metals add a classic or transitional look, and warm tones like bronze pair well with farmhouse and rustic designs.
Should cabinet hardware match appliance finishes?
Coordinating cabinet hardware with appliance finishes creates a more cohesive kitchen design. Matching tones, such as stainless steel with brushed metals or black cabinetry with black stainless appliances, helps tie the space together visually.
What appliances are designed to match cabinetry seamlessly?
Built-in and panel-ready appliances are ideal for cabinetry-focused kitchens. Wall ovens and panel-ready dishwashers are designed to integrate cleanly into cabinet layouts, maintaining uninterrupted lines and a custom appearance.
Are panel-ready dishwashers worth it for design-focused kitchens?
Yes. Panel-ready dishwashers allow you to apply the same cabinet finish to the appliance door, making it virtually disappear into the cabinetry. This is especially popular in modern, minimalist, and high-end kitchen designs.
Which appliance finishes work best with custom cabinetry?
Stainless steel offers a timeless look, while black stainless steel adds contrast without overpowering cabinetry. Appliances from ZLINE Kitchen & Bath are available in finishes designed to complement a wide range of cabinet styles and colors.
Do cabinet knobs and handles impact resale value?
Well-installed, thoughtfully chosen hardware enhances perceived quality and craftsmanship. Clean alignment, durable installation, and coordinated finishes can positively influence how buyers view the kitchen as a whole.
