Drawer Guide Systems

The next key component in case good construction is the drawer guide system. In addition to allowing drawers to move in and out, slides also prevent them from tipping downward when they’re pulled out past the halfway point. Slides are typically configured and mounted either underneath the drawer or on its sides. Each style offers different advantages.

Drawer guide is defined as: "the track or runners allowing a drawer to move freely and evenly in a piece of furniture such as a dresser." There are many types of guides including wooden center guides, metal glides with nylon rollers and metal ball bearing guides.

Side Mounted Ball Bearing Guide: Side on side center mounted metal drawer guides offer superior weight tolerance as well as a smooth pull action. They are mounted on the sides of the drawer around the center of the board. This allows for equal weight distribution from front to back. Ball bearings are used inside the guide track and deliver a seamless gliding action. These will typically be used on larger drawers, due to the extra weight capacity they can hold.

Center Mounted Wood Guide: Center mounted wood drawer guides offer equal weight distribution and balance the drawer so that it does not tip. The guide will run the entire length of the drawer itself, and is usually made from kiln dried hardwood that is waxed to provide a smooth pull. An additional benefit of a center mount guide is that it allows drawers to be used in smaller areas than other forms of guides will allow.

Center Mounted Metal Guide: Center mounted metal guides offer equal weight distribution across the drawer and provide excellent balance. The guide runs the entire length of the drawer and provides a smooth pull to the action with little drag. The metal guide is also easily replaced or serviced if ever needed.

Additional Features: Additional drawer construction features include corner blocks that are glued and nailed to support the drawer base. Drawer guides also feature guide stops that prevent the drawer from pulling out of the case piece by accident.