Handles

Key information you should consider When buying Handles for your drawers and cabinets

Type of Handle (Knob vs. Pull)

Knobs: Smaller, typically attached with a single screw. Good for smaller drawers and cabinet doors, and often more traditional in style.

Pulls: Longer, attached with two or more screws. Provide a better grip, especially for heavier or frequently used drawers and larger cabinet doors. They come in various styles like bars, arches, cups, and more modern designs.

Style and Design of Handle

Match your existing decor: Consider the overall style of your room (modern, traditional, farmhouse, minimalist, etc.) and choose handles that complement it.

Shape and form: Handles come in various shapes (round, square, rectangular, curved, etc.). Choose a shape that is comfortable to grip and visually appealing.

Size and Proportion of Handle

Drawer Width: A general guideline is the "1/3 rule": the pull length should be approximately 1/3 the width of the drawer. For wider drawers (30"+), you might consider longer pulls or two smaller pulls.

Cabinet Door Height: For upper cabinets, knobs or smaller pulls (3-5") are common. For lower cabinets, you can often go with slightly longer pulls (5-7"). For tall pantry cabinets, longer pulls (8"+) are often preferred.

Comfort: Ensure the handle size is comfortable for you and others to grip and use easily.

Material of Handle

Metal: Stainless steel, brass (polished, satin, antique), nickel (polished, brushed), bronze (oil-rubbed, antique), zinc, aluminum. Metal is durable and comes in various finishes.

Wood: Offers a warm, natural look, often suitable for rustic or traditional styles.

Glass/Crystal: Adds elegance and can be great for decorative pieces.

Ceramic: Can provide a vintage or unique touch with various colors and patterns.

Finish of Handle

The finish affects the look and durability of the handle. Consider finishes that match your other hardware (faucets, light fixtures, hinges) for a cohesive look.

Common finishes include: matte black, brushed nickel, polished chrome, satin brass, oil-rubbed bronze, and more.

Consider the environment: some finishes are more resistant to corrosion in humid or frequently used areas.

Mounting Hardware

Check if the handles come with the necessary screws. Ensure the screw length is appropriate for the thickness of your drawer or cabinet fronts. Some handles come with breakaway screws that can be adjusted.

Installation Considerations for Handles

• Existing Holes: If you're replacing handles, accurately measure the center-to-center distance of the existing screw holes. Choosing new handles with the same measurement will save you the hassle of drilling new holes and filling old ones.
• Template Use: For new installations, using a cabinet hardware installation template is highly recommended. It ensures consistent and accurate placement of holes, especially for pulls that require multiple screws.
• Screw Length: Double-check that the screws provided with the handles are the correct length for the thickness of your cabinet doors or drawer fronts. Screws that are too long can protrude on the inside, and screws that are too short won't provide a secure attachment.