How do I fix drawers with a door that came off?
Question:Is it possible? The drawer is secured onto my house so I can't replace it and the drawer didn't come off because of a loose screw it came off because the wood chipped. Is it possible to put it back in place?
Answers:
Sounds like you need some wood glue to stick it back together, and re screw.
If you are talking about the drawer front, you should be able to glue it back, unless the sides where it attaches are badly damaged. Is there no way to get the drawer out all the way to fix it?
I have almost the same issue that I've been meaning to get after, so thanks for your question.
For those who are reading who have a broken drawer on a valuable antique - have a restorationist professional do the work - or the fix could ruin the value of the piece.
For the rest of us:
A couple ways come to mind. With each, using wood glue (wipe edges clean with a damp cloth after pressing togther a few minutes) can make each connection stronger.
Hardware stores often have L-shaped metal elbows that you might be able to screw to both sides for a solid connection. If it is a bottom drawer you can consider getting a long hinge for the bottom for a hidden shelf instead of slide out drawer.
OR - consider using a drill & wood screws (and wood glue) to add small block of reinforcing wood to the inner drawer wall, near the front. Hold it in place before drilling pilot holes and mark spots on 2 sides...one for the wall of the drower, and also 2 holes for the front...and do it so the screws will not collide. With a long square block of wood this should be no trouble. If the front of the drawer is really compromised, a deeper block with wood glue all along the contact surface mat be your way. Having a couple of Clamps handy will help, or else try a solid weight on top of the wood while the glue is drying.
A starter hole - but not all the way through - will make it easier to mount the block. It may be obvious to some of us, but it is also easiest to remove the drawer first (if you can.)
Good luck! btw, GardenWeb.com is one of my favorite web sites. Last year they added a great HOME section. Lots of support for homeowners there. Check it out.
Jules
PS: while the drawer is out, consider a light sanding, or slide soap along the bottom edges, to reduce the friction/drag, and give your fix better odds of lasting for the coming years.
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