Drawer Slides

Choosing the correct drawer slide doesn't have to be a difficult process. While it's true that selecting the slides you want can be more confusing than actually installing them, understanding each slide type, the hardware it uses, the type of mount it needs, and the benefits of each are simple enough to understand.

Side Mount

Side mount is a common, multi-purpose drawer slide that is available in weight capacities up to five hundred pounds. What makes side mount slides so popular is their versatility. They are available with partial extension, full extension, and full extension with overtravel.

They are available with various closing options such as soft-close, self-close, and touch-release. These are great all-around drawer slides that are versatile and can be used in any type of cabinetry. If you don't like hardware showing, however, this may not be the right slide to use. The hardware is very visible when the drawers are open since the mounting is done on the sides of the cabinet drawer.

Undermount

The undermount drawer slide is a popular choice if looks are of primary concern. This type of slide is mounted under the drawer box and the slides cannot be seen when the drawer is pulled out.

Undermount is an excellent choice for those who want dovetail or fingerjoint construction for a solid fit. This slide is easy to mount and the hardware is invisible from the top and only moderately visible on the low side of the drawer.

Bottom Mount

Also referred to as European drawer slides, this type of mount features nylon wheel roller slides that install directly at the bottom of the drawer. Bottom mounts are available for full extension and partial extension uses. The European or bottom mount typically has superior weight capacity than other mount types.

Soft Close Feature

One of the most popular features in today's cabinetry is the soft-closing drawer. Also referred to as silent- and self-closing drawer slides, this feature helps to prevent damage and sounds that traditional drawers often have. With a simple push, the drawer will begin closing by itself without any further work on your part. You get no slamming noises or jarring of the drawer; just a smooth and soft closing mechanism with the soft close slide.

Another benefit of this type of hardware is its compatibility with top, rear, side, and bottom mount. You can use the soft close drawer slide for nearly any application.

Light, Medium, and Heavy Duty

There are many different styles available that feature various weight capacities, installation processes, hardware, extension capabilities, and materials. Light duty slides have a weight capacity of up to 75 pounds, which is more than enough for kitchen cabinets. Medium duty slides have a capacity up to 120 pounds, which is great for home cabinets that you expect to be filled up with dishes, cookware, or cans. For pantry pull-out drawers, large storage drawers, and other heavy-duty drawers, you will want heavy duty slides that can hold weight ranging from 100 to 500 pounds.

Specialty Slides

Specialty slides accommodate drawers and trays used for purposes other than your typical cabinet. Some of the most popular specialty slides include television pull outs, swivels, pull outs for cutting boards, keyboard trays, and more.

You can now make a well-informed decision regarding what kind of drawer slides you prefer in your kitchen and begin installing!