Whether you have a new cupboard or want to upgrade the look of the one you already have, there are many different hardware options you can choose from. Catches, knobs, hinges, and pulls come in a wide range of options to suit everyone’s need and budget. And if you aren’t too familiar with cupboard hardware, this article should give you a better idea of what to look for when shopping.
Why Replace the Hardware Instead of the Cupboard Itself?
Well, replacing the hardware is the far more affordable way to improve the looks and functionality of your cupboard. You can use different shapes, styles, and finishes to customise its look on a budget and in a short time period.
Picking the Right Knobs & Pulls
When buying knobs, you’ll find models that have built-in screws and models that have separate screws. They come in a wide range of shapes, including round, mushroom, global, oval, square, rectangular, novelty and octangular. Alternatively, you can get pulls which serve the same purpose as knobs but take up more space, meaning they can have a larger effect on how the cupboard looks. Pulls also come in a wide range of shapes, including ring, bar, arched, cup, bail, novelty, rectangular and square.
Picking the Right Catches and Latches
When shopping for cupboard catches, you’ll find two basic types: spring roller and magnetic cupboard catches. Spring roller catches usually have one or two rollers set close together on the frame, and the catch is mounted on the door, which closes when the rollers hook onto the strike plate. Magnetic cupboard catches, on the other hand, are basically a metal plate that’s mounted on the cabinet door which latches onto a magnet mounted on the frame.
Picking the Right Style and Finish
You want the cupboard hardware to match the style of the rest of your decor. The most common types of hardware styles are the following.
- Traditional – has a more classic and ornate look, and generally includes antique, farmhouse or rustic hardware;
- Contemporary – features a more minimalistic and sharp look. Contemporary hardware is usually quite simple, understated and finished with stainless steel;
- Transitional – combines contemporary and traditional hardware for a more personalized look;
- Eclectic – provides a unique, informal and fun look.
Once you’ve decided on the style and shape, you can pick a finish. When choosing a finish, you have to consider whether you want the hardware to be cohesive with the rest of the room. The most common types of finishes are:
- Stainless steel
- Gold
- Brass
- Copper
- Nickel
- Bronze
- Chrome
- Black