So you’ve got all new built-in hardware for your kitchen cabinets, but you have no idea how to install it. Your kitchen needs an update, but you can’t afford new cabinets. The good news is that installing the hinges and pulls is incredibly easy to do, requiring only a few steps. With these few steps, your new built-in hardware looks like a contractor came to install it instead of a DIY project.

Installing new built-in hardware on your cabinets can be a fun and easy way to get new cabinets without paying the price of new. The best part is that learning how to install embedded hardware is not much different than installing any other type of hardware. You only need a few tools to get the job done. The rest is just having someone help you hold them while you install the new hardware.

1. Tools Required – In order to perform recessed hardware replacement, you should have some tools available. You may also need a friend to help remove the cabinet doors if you can’t lift them on your own. The necessary tools are:

  • screwdriver
  • Wrench
  • drill
  • Measuring tape
  • Sandpaper if necessary

2. Remove Old Hardware – You must remove the old hardware before installing the new embedded hardware. Using the screwdriver, carefully remove the screws holding the pulls or handles. Starting with the bottom hinge, remove those screws as well. Do the same with the ones above. Keep in mind that the doors are coming off so you should have someone there to help you hold the cabinet door if you can’t do it yourself.

3. Clean the doors – If there are any rough edges in the wood, they need to be sanded before installing the new hardware. This makes it a better fit when new hardware is installed. New hardware needs to be flush and if there are high spots on the cabinets they can look bad.

4. Install New Hinges – After cleaning the doors, you need to install the new hinges. Use the tape measure and make sure that the new hinges have the same hole configuration as the ones that were removed. If not, use the drill to make new holes for the new hinges. While the doors are still off the cabinets, put the new hinges on the cabinet doors. Have your helper hold them on the cabinets and attach the other side of the hinges to the cabinets. Do the top first and then the bottom.

Now you have it. Installation doesn’t have to be difficult, especially when there are now so many great resources available to help you.