Drawer pulls can be expensive due to several factors: Material Quality: High-end materials like solid brass or custom finishes increase cost. Design: Intricate or designer pulls often come at a premium. Brand: Established brands may charge more due to reputation and quality assurance.
Quality Materials: High-quality cabinet pulls are often made from premium materials such as solid brass, stainless steel, bronze, or even handcrafted materials like glass or crystal. These materials are more durable, resistant to wear and tear, and have a better finish, making them more expensive.
Cabinet hardware averages between $2 and $50 each. So, if the average-sized kitchen is 100 to 200 square feet, you should aim for 20 to 40 pieces of cabinet hardware. Accounting for labor, you can expect to pay between $120 and $2,400 to install cabinet hardware in an average-sized kitchen.
The 1/3 rule in cabinet hardware is a design guideline that helps achieve balanced proportions when selecting drawer pulls and cabinet handles. According to this rule, the length of the pull should be approximately one-third the width of the drawer or cabinet door.
Cabinets and open shelving offer easier access for large or oddly shaped appliances and utensils but may not be the best choice for organizing smaller appliances. Cabinets tend to cost much less than drawers.
Quality and Durability
Expensive heavy-duty drawer slides are often crafted from premium materials, such as stainless steel or high-grade steel alloys. These materials offer enhanced durability, corrosion resistance, and the ability to withstand heavy loads over time.
Cabinets are generally found in wet or damp environments, such as the kitchen or bathroom. As a result, quality cabinet hardware is typically made of brass or stainless steel and/or coated with a rust-resistant finish that will never fade or discolor.
There are many ways to mix and match hardware! And although there's no one hard and fast rule on when to use knobs versus pulls, consistency is important. You want to make sure your hardware size is appropriate to the drawer width, but from there you can carve out a plan based on personal preference.
For standard size cabinetry (dimensions of 12″ – 36″) the most common pull sizes are 3”, 4”, 96mm, and 128mm center to center (from one screw hole to another). Standard knob sizes are 1 1/4″ or 1 3/8″.
Small Drawers that are 12” or less typically work best with a pull that is 3” to 4” long or a knob that is 1” in diameter. Large Drawers that are 30” to 48"will require a pull that is longer than 8" or a knob that is 1" in diameter or greater. Using two pulls or knobs for a large drawer also works great.
Drawer pulls can be expensive due to several factors: Material Quality: High-end materials like solid brass or custom finishes increase cost. Design: Intricate or designer pulls often come at a premium. Brand: Established brands may charge more due to reputation and quality assurance.
The quantities of cabinets are estimated for an average-sized kitchen, with costs of $200.00 and $180.00 per unit, respectively. Labor cost is based on an estimated 20 hours of work at $50.00 per hour, a rate that varies by region and contractor expertise.
Expensive door hardware offers superior materials, better design options, enhanced durability, and advanced security features, making them a better long-term investment. Although the initial cost is higher, the reduced need for maintenance and replacements can save money over time.
Although it can't hurt to haggle at national chains such as Home Depot and Lowe's, independent stores often have more flexibility on price. The Consumer Reports survey found that of the 32% of people who tried to get a better deal for a major appliance at an independent retailer, 64% were successful.
For example, you can often get away with using a standard drawer pull on dishwashers and they might even be more appropriate looks wise. However, for paneled refrigerators it is often recommended that you do use an appliance handle both for its appearance and for its functionality.
Using a pull that is approximately 1/3 the length of the drawer is a good rule of thumb. When in between sizes, size up.
The most popular hardware finishes are satin or matte black, brushed or polished brass, and copper.
When choosing between knobs and pulls for your kitchen cabinet hardware, consider cabinet pulls for a modern, sleek look. Pulls are also a great choice for big, heavy drawers. Opt for knobs for a more traditional feel and for use on cabinet doors.
Does cabinet hardware have to match your faucet? No. But, traditionally kitchens and bathrooms will match hardware finishes to the faucet to tie the finishes in the room together. Matching cabinet hardware to your faucet creates a cohesive look.
Pulls don't have to all be the same length as long as the pull design is the same. Use a long pull for tall cabinets and wide drawers, and use a medium length pull for shorter cabinets and narrower drawers.
Cabinet Knob Placement
You can place the knobs just above or below the corner of the cabinet door frame. For wall cabinets (cabinets placed above the counter space), it's common to see knobs placed 2'' to 3'' from the lower corner of the door panel, but most importantly, is based on your personal preference.
Matte black kitchen hardware remains a top choice for 2024, continuing to dominate as a versatile and sophisticated option for modern kitchens. This sleek finish adds a touch of elegance that pairs beautifully with various cabinet colors and styles, and offers the perfect balance of boldness and refinement.
Creating a Timeless Look Through New Interior Doors & Hardware. Choosing hardware is a small decision that makes a big difference. By opting for classic finishes like matte black, brushed nickel, warm brass, or oil-rubbed bronze, you're investing in the lasting beauty of your home.
While brass door handles may offer traditional appeal, their drawbacks—tarnishing, corrosion, and high maintenance—make them less suitable for today's needs.