In a depressed economy, most of us cannot afford home renovations. This makes it very difficult if we want to enjoy a new look, or if we want to sell the house and fix it up before doing so. A great way to create a quick kitchen makeover without spending a lot is by swapping out cabinet knobs or handles. While it costs a small amount, this small change can make a big difference to your kitchen décor. Here’s a quick guide to installing cabinet pulls, even for the novice renovator.

Step 1 – Tell it all
Before you buy new cabinet pulls and invest your money in this project, it’s important to know how much hardware you’ll need. Nothing is more frustrating than realizing you’ve bought three extra 2.5-inch cabinet pulls and now you have nothing to do with them. Be sure to thoroughly count every cabinet, drawer, door, and closet where you expect to install new cabinet pulls. Ask someone else in the house to check your numbers too.

Step 2 – Measure it
Now it’s time to measure the distance between the center of the screw holes so you know what size cabinet pulls you’ll need. The easiest way to get your renovation project done is to buy new cabinet pulls that are the same size as your old ones. Why have to plug holes and drill new holes, when you can simply find the same size 12 inch cabinet pulls or 3.5 inch cabinet pulls to fit your existing space? Once you know the exact size of your space, you will be able to shop for inch-by-size handles, which will make purchasing and installation much easier and simpler.

Step 3 – Let’s go shopping!
Now the fun begins. Once you know what size sweaters you need, you can have fun shopping for a new look. If you’re shopping for your own renovations, think about the cabinets you already have and be sure to match the new pulls with the existing colors and style. If you’re hoping to sell the house, then consider purchasing brass cabinet pulls or satin nickel cabinet handles, as these will catch the eye of the potential buyer.

Step 4 – Out with the old, in with the new
Once your cabinet pulls arrive, you’re ready to begin the installation process. Remove the existing cabinet pulls with a screwdriver to dislodge the screws. If the screws won’t move, try putting some W-D40 or Goo Gone on the screw heads. Let the substance dry and try again. This should work to dislodge the screws. Now install the new cabinet pulls in the same place where the old pulls were. Take a new screw and drive it into the existing hole, starting from the inside of the drawer. Using a screwdriver or Allen wrench, turn the screw through the hole and into the hole in the new cabinet handle. Take a look from the front of the drawer at your new hardware. If you like the look and fit of the 2.5-inch cabinet pulls you purchased, you can tighten the screws and snap the cabinet pull into place.

Step 5 – Other Tips
If you plan to paint or refinish cabinets, drawers, or doors as part of this process, be sure to do so after you remove the old cabinet handles and before you install the new ones. This will ensure that you cover the entire surface with the new paint or finish and will ensure that your new hardware does not get painted or ruined.

You’re ready to host a home renovation TV show! You’ve successfully installed your new pulls, whether they’re 3-inch cabinet pulls or 8-inch cabinet pulls, and bask in the glory of a job well done. Now, you’re ready to admire your work for years of great use, or to sell the house for its true value.