Drawer Slide Calculator
Professional drawer slide calculator for cabinet making and furniture construction. Calculate slide length, clearances, weight capacity, and mounting specifications with real-time hardware recommendations.
⚠️ HARDWARE INSTALLATION NOTICE
Ensure proper weight capacity and mounting specifications for safe operation. Verify slide compatibility with cabinet construction. Follow manufacturer installation guidelines and use appropriate fasteners for your application.
Drawer Specifications
Slide Type
Drawer Dimensions
Load Requirements
Hardware Specifications
Enter drawer specifications to calculate slide requirements, clearances, and hardware recommendations for your project.
Slide Length Sizing
Drawer slides should be 2-4 inches shorter than cabinet depth. Full-extension slides provide 100% drawer access.
Weight Capacity
Choose slides rated for 1.5-2x expected load. Heavy-duty slides support 100-500 lbs for commercial applications.
Clearance Requirements
Side-mount slides need 0.5" clearance per side. Undermount slides require specific bottom clearances.
Mounting Types
Side-mount: easiest installation. Undermount: clean appearance. Center-mount: traditional option.
Soft-Close Features
Soft-close mechanisms prevent slamming and extend hardware life. Essential for quality cabinetry.
Installation Tips
Use proper fasteners, ensure level mounting, and test operation before final installation. Adjust as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Drawer slide length should be 2-4 inches shorter than your cabinet depth. For a 24" deep cabinet, use 20" or 22" slides. Full-extension slides provide complete drawer access, while 3/4 extension slides are more economical.
Choose slides rated for 1.5-2 times your expected load. Kitchen drawers typically need 75-100 lb capacity, while file drawers may require 100-150 lbs. Heavy-duty applications can need 200-500 lb capacity slides.
Side-mount slides attach to drawer sides and are easier to install. Undermount slides attach to the drawer bottom, providing a cleaner appearance but requiring more precise installation and specific clearances.
Side-mount slides typically need 0.5" clearance on each side (1" total). Undermount slides require specific bottom clearances (usually 0.75-1"). Always check manufacturer specifications for exact requirements.
Yes, soft-close slides prevent slamming, reduce wear on cabinets, and provide a premium feel. They're especially valuable in kitchens and high-use applications where drawers are opened frequently.
Often yes, but you'll need to verify clearances and mounting compatibility. Measure existing slides and cabinet openings carefully. You may need to modify drawer boxes or cabinet interiors for proper fit.