How to install drawer handles close to the top?

[KellieN]

 Hi there, I bought these handles and was hoping to put them as close to the top of the drawer  as possible. I'm worried the timber will split so I intend to use a small drill bit to start with then work my way up to a bigger one.  Do you have any other suggestions? Or are these handles intended to be placed in the centre of the drawer.

Thanks heaps

Kellie Neal

[Noyade]

Morning @KellieN 

"a small drill bit to start with then work my way up to a bigger one."

I think this is a good plan - making sure the 'snap-off' screws fit nicely without resistance. Good sized washers would also distribute the tightening force. I like and appreciate the higher mounting idea. There would also be a Prestige drilling template available to help you with screw placing?

Wood type? Any chance of a photo?

Cheers.

[JacobZ]

Hi Kellie (@KellieN),

You won't have any issues installing your Prestige Brushed Nickel Shell Pull Handle higher up on your drawers, assuming the timber is in good condition, but to ensure there are no issues with timber splitting, I'd suggest your pre-drilled holes should be no closer than 25mm from the top of the drawer.

I believe the screws that are provided are around 3mm in diameter, but they may be slightly larger. Start with a 3mm Drill Bit, then size up if needed. 

As @Noyade has mentioned, a washer on the inside of the drawers will help distribute the load applied by the screw, so it is certainly worth adding them.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob

[KellieN]

 Thankyou for your suggestions and advice. The timber is only chipboard. I think I will drill the holes before painting so if it does split, I can putty it up and won't have to do a patch up  paint job.

[JacobZ]

Hi @KellieN,

I'd be very surprised if anything splits, but drilling the holes before painting seems like a logical plan.

Let us know how you go.

Jacob

[KellieN]

Thankyou Jacob, I was hoping to go a little closer to the edge then 25mm. It's veneer covered chipboard so hopefully the veneer will lower the chances of it splitting. Would reinforcing the back of the drawer further prevent the chances of any splitting?

[KellieN]

Thankyou very much

[JacobZ]

Hi @KellieN,

Your chipboard is a good thickness and looks in good condition, so it will be strong. I don't think there is any real need for reinforcement.

As long as you predrill the chipboard carefully and don't overtighten the screws, you should be fine getting closer to the edge. You'll have to use your discretion, but I am fairly confident you could go as close as 15mm to the edge without issues.

There are always options for patching if things don't go to plan.

Jacob

[KellieN]

Thankyou, if it turns out well, I'll post the results