The insert possibilities are endless.
Undermount Slides not just for Kitchens Anymore?
Almost every new kitchen is made with undermount slides – even imported stock cabinets have them.
Clients today are more educated, familiar with undermounts and have very high expectations. That’s why dovetail boxes and undermount slides are not just for kitchens anymore. Some high-end clients not only expect undermounts, but require them to land their job.
Don’t let this make you cringe…
Undermounts may be different, but they aren’t any harder to install…
As long as you know the facts –
Let’s start with a common misconception – even though the slide is referred to as an undermount it still mounts to the vertical panel and will probably hit your system holes. The drawer box sits on top of the slide, that’s why it’s referred to as an “undermount”.
Now it’s time to get technical –
The drawer spacing is different. Instead of it being an inch less your opening, it’s 5/8” less when using ½” material and 3/8” less when using 5/8” material.
Number two, undermount slides don’t come every two inches. Standard sizes are 9”, 12”, 15”, 18” and 21”. This size refers to your drawer box depth. Your vertical panel must be an inch deeper than the drawer box. There are a handful of companies on the market that make a 13” deep undermount, I stock King Slide, it works great.
If you’re outsourcing your drawer boxes than that’s all you need to know. For a few extra bucks the drawer company will prep the boxes for the undermount slides… Trust me this is the best $3 you’ll ever spend.
If you insist on manufacturing the drawers yourself, you will need to recess the bottom of the box a ¼” so that you can mount the front clips. You will also need to notch the back of the drawer and drill a 10mm hole.
I hope this post makes you feel a little more comfortable with undermount slides. If you have any questions please feel free to contact me at richdemarco@optonline.net.
BIG improvements to BI-FOLDING doors…
I know what you’re thinking… Bi-folding doors really? The best improvement was getting rid of them 30 years ago… and I agree those louvered doors never worked properly, needed constant adjustment, and always fell off the track… BUT…
Yes that’s a big but – (insert joke here)
Imagine if bi-folding doors did function properly… You would have access to the entire closet!
Dreams can come true… See the new bi-folding doors in action.
What do you do when a client asks for closet doors? Are you walking away from that business?
If you would like more information about bi-folding or sliding doors please feel free to contact me at richdemarco@optonline.net.
Increase your profits with hampers….
I’m sure if there is enough space in your design most of you will add a hamper…
If you’re like most in the industry it’s a tilt out… Why?
It’s not the least expensive option and the argument can be made that it’s a service call waiting to happen…
Is it because this is what you have always done? Did anyone else just yawn?
Here are some hamper options that may help you stand out, increase the dollar value of your sale and hopefully increase your profits…
- The least expensive and most versatile option is to use an 18” high pull out wire basket. It comes in all of your standard widths, three different depths, and three different finishes. I’m sure that you will be able to find one that will work with your design. Sell a canvas liner to add to your sale. The downside to this option is that you can’t add a drawer face without some carpentry magic.
- The mid-level option is also the biggest. It’s a 20” wide X 14” deep X 24” high, vented white plastic hamper. The basket can be easily removed and installs with four screws into a fixed shelf. A door mount kit is available.
- The Cadillac of hampers is a double wire hamper with an aluminum frame and soft close slides. It’s made for a 14” deep vertical and fits snuggly in a 24” wide section. Your door mounts to the frame and can be easily adjusted to give you the right reveal. Sell the canvas liners to add to your sale.
Your turn… What are your tips or tricks when adding hampers to your designs?
If you would like more information please feel free to contact me at richdemarco@optonline.net.
Push open hardware, it’s not all about the design…
Using push open hinges and slides are great for creating a modern feel to your space. This hardware will eliminate the need for handles and knobs, giving you that European look that your customers keep asking for…
However I think there is an entirely different market for this product that our industry could be missing…
How many of you have worked in a senior community? Have you ever been told that it’s difficult to open the drawers? Did you have to go back to remove the rubber bumpers in the back of the slide?
Do you install cabinets in medical or dental offices? No handles = no germs…
These places could benefit from not having to open up doors or drawers with a handle.
Your turn, have you had any experiences with push open hardware?
I help individuals and organizations to be successful… If you have any questions please contact me at 347-723-7433 or you can email me at richdemarco@optonline.net.
