Can you add drawers to existing cabinets?

Adding drawers to existing cabinets can be a great way to increase storage and organization in your kitchen. With some careful planning and the right materials, it is possible for many homeowners to complete this type of project as a DIY job.

Can You Add Drawers to Cabinet Boxes?

Yes, it is generally possible to add drawers to the cabinet boxes of existing cabinets. The key requirements are that the cabinet boxes are sturdy enough to support the weight of drawers and contents, and that there is enough space inside the cabinets to accommodate drawer slides and clearance for the drawers.

Things to consider when adding drawers to existing cabinet boxes:

• Construction of cabinets – To support drawers, cabinet sides, bottoms and face frames must be in good condition. Particleboard or plastic laminate cabinets are not as sturdy as wood or plywood.
• Space inside cabinets – There needs to be adequate interior height, depth and width for the drawer slides and drawer boxes. This is especially important for larger or deeper drawers.
• Modifications may be needed – You may need to remove a middle shelf or make other modifications to create the space needed for drawers.
• Weight considerations – Drawer slides come in different weight capacities. Choose slides that can hold the weight of the contents you plan to put in the drawers.

Provided the existing cabinets are well-built and there is sufficient interior space, adding drawers involves installing drawer slides, fashioning a drawer box and adding a drawer front. It’s also important to carefully measure and ensure proper clearances so the drawers glide smoothly.

Can You Convert Shelves to Drawers?

Converting existing shelves into drawers is often easier than adding completely new drawers. The basic cabinet structure is already in place. Some key factors when converting shelves to drawers include:

• Check that the cabinet bottom is sturdy enough for drawer slides and contents.
• Measure carefully to design drawer boxes that maximize space while allowing proper clearance.
• Look for full extension drawer slides rated for the drawer weight.
• Keep plumbing and electrical layouts in mind if converting cabinets near sinks or appliances.

Converting a shelf to a single large drawer is relatively straightforward. However, it is also possible to split one large shelf space into two or more smaller drawers. This allows you to customize the space according to your storage needs.

Can You Add Drawers Without Replacing Cabinets?

In many kitchens, it is possible to add drawers without having to fully replace existing cabinetry. Some options for adding drawers without replacing cabinets include:

• Converting existing shelves into drawers, as discussed above.
• Adding roll-out trays or drawer inserts that mount onto existing cabinet bottoms.
• Installing pull-out “roll-out” drawers that mount behind existing doors.
• Using an insert drawer system that mounts inside cabinet frames.
• Adding new drawer bases adjacent to existing cabinet ends or floors.

The easiest DIY option is likely converting shelves to drawers. Roll-out trays are also a relatively simple upgrade. Building new drawer boxes into existing casework is more complex, but can be done with good carpentry skills.

Upgrading cabinets with new drawer inserts or pull-outs does not require full cabinet replacement. However, you still get the big convenience boost of being able to fully access contents via smooth-gliding drawers.

Should You Replace or Reface Cabinets to Get Drawers?

If your current kitchen cabinets are in good structural condition, adding drawers or converting shelves to drawers may be all you need to do. However, for some kitchens, fully replacing or refacing cabinets makes the most sense.

Reasons you may want to replace or reface cabinets for more drawers include:

• Existing cabinet boxes are poorly built or damaged.
• Limited interior space makes adding drawer slides impossible.
• You want to change the cabinet footprint or opening sizes.
• Old cabinets have limited design options for drawer fronts.
• You want features like soft-close or full extension drawers.

Replacing cabinets gives you a “blank slate” to optimize drawer design and spacing. Refacing keeps the cabinet boxes intact but allows installing new doors, fronts and interiors.

One downside is cost. Cabinet replacement or refacing is a larger investment than simply adding drawers. Whether it’s worth the upgrade depends on your goals, timeframe and budget.

How Much Does It Cost to Add Drawers?

The cost to add drawers can vary greatly depending on the type of project, who does the installation, and choices of materials and hardware. Here are approximate costs for some common options:

Drawer Addition Project	Estimated Cost
Add roll-out trays to existing cabinets	$50 – $150 per drawer
Convert shelf to drawer with new slides and front	$150 – $300 per drawer
Add custom drawer boxes into existing cabinets	$250 – $500 per drawer
Install pull-out “roll out” drawers	$300 – $600 per drawer
Replace existing cabinets with new drawer bases	$500 – $1,500 per drawer

Costs increase for larger or deeper drawer sizes. Expect to pay more if hiring a carpenter or kitchen remodeling contractor rather than doing it yourself. The number of drawers being added is also a cost factor.

Refacing existing cabinets to get new drawer fronts and interiors may cost $2,000 to $4,000. Complete cabinet replacement often ranges from $5,000 to $15,000 or more.

What Are the Best Ways to Add Drawers?

Some of the best options for adding drawers without fully replacing cabinets include:

• Convert existing shelves – This DIY-friendly option lets you gain drawer storage while keeping current cabinets.
• Use drawer inserts – These systems mount inside cabinets and allow easy access to contents.
• Install roll-outs – Smooth pull-out drawers can mount behind cabinet doors.
• Add drawer bases – Great way to expand storage by combining drawer bases with existing uppers.

To maximize drawer convenience and functionality:

• Choose full extension slides for easy access.
• Include features like soft-close.
• Organize contents with interior dividers or trays.
• Optimize drawer height and width for what you plan to store.

Carefully measuring existing cabinet openings and interiors is also key for achieving a seamless, integrated look.

Are There Any Drawbacks to Adding Drawers?

Potential drawbacks of adding drawers include:

• Higher cost than simply adding shelves.
• Reduced cabinet space if not configured properly.
• Weight limitations on slides may restrict contents.
• Difficult to retrofit drawers in some tight cabinet spaces.
• Resale value may be lower than full cabinet replacement.

To avoid issues, carefully plan your drawer project to match your specific cabinets and needs. Hiring an experienced kitchen remodeler rather than doing it yourself can also help minimize any drawbacks.

Overall, the huge organizational benefits of drawers typically make it worth implementing if your current kitchen layout allows. Just be strategic in selecting the best drawer addition methods for your space.

Conclusion

Adding drawers to existing kitchen cabinets is one of the most effective ways to boost storage and access to contents. From converting shelves to installing rollout models, there are many options to upgrade cabinets with new drawers without the cost of full replacement. With good planning and workmanship, drawers can be added to many types of cabinet boxes while keeping the existing cabinet footprint intact. This provides an affordable way to gain drawer convenience without renovating the entire kitchen. Just be sure to choose slide hardware and building methods sturdy enough to handle the expected drawer contents to get the most out of your project.