Full Extension Cold Rolled Steel Ball Bearing Drawer Glides Side Mount

Full Extension Cold Rolled Steel Ball Bearing Drawer Glides Side Mount

Whether you are installing new cabinets in your home, setting up an office, or outfitting an industrial workspace, it is critical to choose durable drawer glides side mount that can withstand heavy use.

Key Considerations for Choosing the Right Drawer Slides

Choosing the best drawer slides can seem difficult, but with a little guidance, it can be simple. Here are a few key factors to consider:

1. Weight Rating

First, determine how much weight your drawers need to handle. Each drawer slide has a specific weight capacity, so it is critical to understand the intended use of your drawers. For example, a file cabinet drawer will need a higher weight capacity than a drawer that is used to hold light office supplies.

Most drawer slides are rated for 75, 100, or 150 pounds, but some heavy-duty ball-bearing slides can support over 500 pounds. Knowing how much weight your drawers need to handle will help narrow down your choices.

2. Mounting Type

The method by which a drawer slide is mounted can affect both functionality and aesthetics. Here are the three main types:

• Center Mount Drawer Slides:
  These slides are mounted underneath the drawer and consist of a single rail. They are usually concealed and are a great choice for showcasing beautiful cabinets. However, they generally support less weight, so they are not suitable for heavy drawers.
• Side-mount drawer slides:
  These slides come in pairs and are installed on both sides of the drawer. They require a small gap (about 1/2 inch) between the drawer and the cabinet opening. Side-mount installations can support heavier loads than center-mount installations, but are visible when the drawer is open.
• Bottom-mount drawer slides:
  Also available in pairs, these slides are installed on the bottom of the drawer. They provide a clean look by hiding the hardware and are suitable for heavier loads, but they may increase the cost of your project.

3. Slide Length

Drawer slides come in a variety of lengths, generally ranging from 7.8 inches to 36 inches. If your drawer has an overlay front, measure from the front edge of the cabinet to the back edge and subtract one inch. For recessed drawers, subtract the thickness of the drawer front to determine the correct slide length.

4. Extension Options

Consider how far you want the drawer to open. There are three types of extensions:

• 3/4 extension:
  The most economical option, allowing the drawer to extend about 75% from the cabinet.
• Full Extension:
  Provides full access to the drawer, allowing it to fully extend from the cabinet.
• Overtravel:
  This option allows the drawer to extend slightly beyond its full length, making it easier to access items in the back.

5. Movement Features

Modern drawer slides come with a variety of movement features designed to facilitate ease of use:

• Soft Close:
  This feature slows the drawer’s closing motion, preventing slams and noise while extending the life of the slide.
• Auto Close:
  These slides gently push and pull on the drawer, ensuring it closes completely.
• Push Open:
  These sleek, handle-free slides open with a gentle push, making them perfect for tight spaces or minimalist designs.

Conclusion

Whether you’re outfitting a small office or a busy production floor, understanding the intended use of the drawer is key to choosing the right slide. Consider the contents of the drawer to determine the correct load rating, and consider who will be using the drawer to find the best combination of features. Don’t forget to check if any additional hardware is required to achieve the perfect fit and finish.

If you need more information or assistance, please contact Guangdong Goodich Hardware Co., Ltd., email: info@goodich-hardware.com, phone: +86-15618525178.