Drawer coming apart? Separate a box repair from replacing the front or slides

Show where the drawer is coming apart

Western Dovetail describes failed drawer boxes with separated joints and sagging bottoms. Look at the accessible interior without tugging on loose pieces: is a corner opening, a bottom panel split or displaced, or only the decorative front loose? Record which part changed and any previous repair.

A sticking drawer with an intact box may need a different assessment from one whose sides are separating. If it is dropping, breaking apart or pulling off its supports, leave it undisturbed rather than opening it repeatedly for photos.

• A wide view locating the drawer among the surrounding cabinets.
• A close-up of the damaged joint or bottom, plus a wider view showing its position.
• The inside face behind the decorative front, if already safely visible.
• Visible hardware markings, the cabinet maker and a description of what is normally stored there.

Find out whether the front is a separate piece

Rockler's custom-front guide distinguishes two constructions. A four-sided box has its own front wall, with the decorative front attached to it. In a three-sided construction, the sides and bottom connect directly to the visible front. That distinction changes what preserving the front involves.

Have the repairer check its condition and attachment before promising reuse. Do not detach it just to identify the construction. Ask whether the proposed work includes transferring the handle, aligning the front with neighboring drawers and addressing any exposed marks.

Compare a defined repair with a complete box replacement

For a localized problem, ask whether the existing joint or bottom can be repaired and what material will remain. If replacement is proposed, ask why the existing box is unsuitable and whether the surrounding cabinet also needs work. A photo can begin that discussion; it cannot establish the strength of a repaired joint.

Compare proposals that cover the same finished result. One may include only work on the box, while another includes a new box, front transfer and hardware installation. Agree on who supplies each part and whether workshop work or a return visit is needed.

Confirm the opening and hardware before ordering

Western Dovetail's measuring guide checks the cabinet opening and derives box dimensions from the selected slides and side thickness. Its undermount examples also have preparation and clearance requirements. Have the installer confirm the exact system; copying the decorative front's width or buying a box by outside size alone is not enough.

Keep accessible measurements labeled as opening, box or front, and mark anything unconfirmed. Send Coast & Craft those details with the photos and your preference to retain the matching front. Confirm the accepted repair scope and visit details before ordering a custom box.