How to Attach an Under-Mount Drawer Slide

Under-mount drawer slides install along the bottom of the drawer, either in the center or on the left and right edges where the drawer sides fit with the bottom. The drawer glides in and out of the furniture along the slides, which typically provide more support than slides installed along the sides. Under-mount slides can be installed in a few minutes with basic hand tools. Replacement slides are sold at hardware and home improvement stores.

Measuring tape
Screwdriver set

Instructions

- 1
  Pull out the drawer to its fully extended position and lift it at an angle from the front to remove it from the furniture. Place the drawer upside-down on a flat work surface.
- 2
  Measure the existing slide with a tape measure. If the slide is broken, measure the length of the drawer bottom from the back edge to the back of the front panel. This is the length needed for the replacement slide.
- 3
  Remove the screws that hold the slide to the bottom of the drawer. If the drawer is equipped with two slides, along the left and right edges, remove both of them.
- 4
  Place the new slide into position in the same orientation on the drawer as the old slide. Replacement slides may be embossed with arrows that indicate the direction for installation. Secure the slide with screws through the pre-drilled holes. A center-mount slide attaches to the back edge of the drawer front.
- 5
  Turn the drawer right-side up and place the back end into the opening in the furniture, with the front of the drawer raised slightly.
- 6
  Engage the under-mount slide with the track inside the furniture, lower the drawer so it is horizontal then push it into place.

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