In the first two blogs in this series, we have provided you a list of the tools we find invaluable for the repairing of all different types of furniture. And more recently, we have guided you through the process of fixing broken furniture to give your treasured pieces a new lease on life.
In this blog, we will be advising how to repair issues with drawers – this is one of the most common issues we come across, which makes me wonder whether that is why people are discarding their furniture as they don’t know where to start with repairs… hopefully this will help a little!
Wooden drawers, especially those that are used regularly, can begin to show signs of wear over time. Boards may warp, guides can become difficult to slide, and the overall structure might suffer. With timely and proper repairs, most drawers can be restored to smooth operation. Here are solutions to some common drawer issues:
Fixing Loose Joints
Drawer frames are often constructed similarly to chairs, using dovetail or butt joints.
Dovetail Joints - Common in older or high-quality furniture, these joints rarely separate. When they do, apply adhesive into the loose joint and tap it gently with a hammer to secure it.
Butt Joints - Found in newer furniture, these joints can be more troublesome. Apply glue to the loose joint, tap it tightly together, and clamp it until the glue dries. If this doesn't hold, try nailing through the drawer's face, then countersink the nail heads and fill the holes with wood filler.
Resolving Binding Issues
Binding or sticking drawers are usually a result of problems with the drawer frame.
Tighten Frame Joints - Ensure all joints are tight and secure.
Lubricate Guides - Use stick lubricant, candle wax, paraffin, or silicone spray on drawer guides and the edges. Avoid petroleum-based lubricants as they attract dirt.
Sand Binding Points - If lubrication doesn't help, carefully sand the areas where the drawer sticks. Seal the sanded wood with shellac to prevent future swelling.
Repairing Worn Guides and Runners
Drawers slide on guides or tracks, which can become worn over time.
Replace Missing Guides - Install metal guides, which are available at hardware stores, following the provided instructions. Or if you are working with a vintage piece and want to retain its appearance, you can use one of the original ones if there are any as a guide to make a new one.
Smooth Rough Guides - If wooden guides are rough, sand them down or use a rasp. For severe wear, consider replacing them with new guides made of hardwood, which is more durable than softwood.
Fixing Worn Runners - If runners are worn, plane the edge and glue a thin strip of hardwood to build it back to its original height. Secure it with small nails, ensuring the heads are countersunk.
Handling Split Drawer Fronts
Splits often occur due to missing guides, so firstly ensure proper guides are in place.
Glue the Split - Apply glue to the split, wipe away excess, and lightly clamp with a strap clamp. Use only light pressure to avoid buckling the wood.
Replacing Split Drawer Bottoms
Drawer bottoms are designed to fit loosely into slots in the sides to allow for wood expansion and contraction. To replace the bottom panel, remove one end of the drawer and slide out the old bottom panel. Replace it with a new panel cut to fit. If the piece is an antique, avoid using plywood or hardboard and opt for a material that matches the original construction.
Fixing Warped Boards
Flat parts like drawer bases can warp due to uneven humidity. During warm weather, place the warped board curved side up on thoroughly watered grass. The dry side absorbs moisture from the grass while the convex side dries in the sun. Once straightened, clamp it between two straight boards to ensure even drying. Before reinstalling, seal the unfinished side with shellac to prevent future warping.
By addressing these common issues, you can restore your drawers to smooth operation, preserving the functionality and beauty of your furniture.
If you're uncertain about the best repair method, please do get in touch… either I can advise if you are confident doing the repairs, or I would be happy to provide a quote for the work needed.