When it comes to choosing drawer slides for your furniture, there are two main options to consider: undermount drawer slides and side-mount drawer slides. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
In this blog post, we’ll compare undermount and side-mount drawer slides in detail to help you make an informed decision. We’ll discuss the differences between the two types of slides, their pros and cons, and the factors to consider when choosing between them.
What are Undermount Drawer Slides?
Undermount drawer slides are a type of drawer slide that is mounted underneath the drawer and attached to the sides of the cabinet. The slides are usually hidden from view, which creates a cleaner, more streamlined appearance.
One of the main advantages of undermount drawer slides is that they allow for full extension of the drawer, meaning that the drawer can be pulled out completely to provide easy access to the entire contents of the drawer. This is because the undermount slides are mounted directly to the sides of the drawer, rather than to a bracket on the bottom of the drawer.
Another advantage of undermount drawer slides is that they are designed to provide a smooth and quiet opening and closing experience. This is because they use a ball bearing mechanism that allows the drawer to glide smoothly along the slides.
What are Side-Mount Drawer Slides?
Side-mount drawer slides, as the name suggests, are mounted on the sides of the cabinet and the sides of the drawer. They are typically visible when the drawer is open, as they are attached to the outside of the drawer.
Side-mount drawer slides are a popular choice for furniture makers because they are relatively easy to install and can support heavy loads. They are also available in a wide range of sizes and lengths, making them suitable for a variety of applications.
One of the advantages of side-mount drawer slides is that they are more forgiving when it comes to the construction of the cabinet and the drawer. This is because they are mounted on the sides of the cabinet and the drawer, rather than on the bottom of the drawer.
Pros and Cons of Undermount Drawer Slides
Pros:
- Clean, streamlined appearance: Undermount drawer slides are hidden from view, which creates a cleaner and more modern appearance.
- Full extension: Undermount drawer slides allow the drawer to be pulled out completely, providing easy access to the entire contents of the drawer.
- Smooth and quiet operation: Undermount drawer slides use a ball bearing mechanism that allows the drawer to glide smoothly and quietly along the slides.
- More efficient use of space: Because undermount slides are mounted directly to the sides of the drawer, they allow for more efficient use of space within the cabinet.
Cons:
- More difficult to install: Undermount drawer slides can be more difficult to install than side-mount slides, as they require precise measurements and a level surface to mount them on.
- More expensive: Undermount drawer slides are generally more expensive than side-mount slides, which can be a consideration for those on a tight budget.
- Limited weight capacity: Undermount drawer slides may not be suitable for heavy loads, as they are designed to support the weight of the drawer and its contents.
Pros and Cons of Side-Mount Drawer Slides
Pros:
- Easy to install: Side-mount drawer slides are relatively easy to install and require minimal woodworking experience.
- Available in a wide range of sizes and lengths: Side-mount drawer slides are available in a wide range of sizes and lengths, making them suitable for a variety of applications.
- Can support heavy loads: Side-mount drawer slides are designed to support heavy loads, making them suitable for use in cabinets and drawers that will be used frequently.
Cons:
- Less efficient use of space: Because side-mount slides are mounted on the sides of the drawer, they take up space within the cabinet, which can reduce the amount of usable space.
- Can be noisy: Side-mount drawer slides can be noisy and may require lubrication to operate smoothly.
- Visible when drawer is open: Side-mount drawer slides are visible when the drawer is open, which can be a consideration for those who prioritize aesthetics.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Undermount and Side-Mount Drawer Slides
- Weight Capacity: The weight capacity of the drawer slide is an important consideration when choosing between undermount and side-mount slides. If you plan to store heavy items in your drawers, you may want to consider side-mount slides, which are designed to support heavier loads.
- Drawer Extension: If you need full extension of your drawers, undermount slides are the way to go. Undermount slides allow the drawer to be pulled out completely, providing easy access to the entire contents of the drawer.
- Aesthetics: If you prioritize aesthetics and a clean, streamlined appearance, undermount slides may be the better choice. Undermount slides are hidden from view, which creates a cleaner and more modern appearance.
- Ease of Installation: Side-mount slides are generally easier to install than undermount slides, making them a good choice for those with minimal woodworking experience.
- Available Space: If you have limited space within your cabinets, undermount slides may be the better choice. Undermount slides allow for more efficient use of space within the cabinet, as they are mounted directly to the sides of the drawer.
Conclusion
Both undermount and side-mount drawer slides have their advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize a clean, streamlined appearance and full extension of your drawers, undermount slides may be the better choice. If you need to store heavy items in your drawers and prioritize ease of installation, side-mount slides may be the way to go.
At Furnihard, we offer a wide range of drawer slides to suit your needs, including both undermount and side-mount options. Our team of experts can help you choose the best option for your project and provide guidance on installation and maintenance. Contact us today to learn more!
