The problem with Wooden drawers

Overloading drawers can often be the root cause of sticking drawers. The first step is to completely empty the drawer and remove for inspection. Check for loose or protruding pins or nails either on the drawer or in and around the drawer frame. Where evident; hammer back flush and refit drawer. It could be that simple.

Drawer runners could also be the culprit. Check how smoothly the draw slides along the wooden runners. If they have worked loose it can be the cause of sticking; again, usually due to overloading. If so, then just apply fresh adhesive to the runner and pin back into place.

Worn runners are another common cause of drawer problems. The uppermost sides can become worn with use and time. Check that the underside of the runner is still good - it might be possible to just remove the runner and turn it over. If so, then carefully prise it off with a wood chisel- apply adhesive- and re-pin into position.

New runners may be required if turning the old runners round does not solve the problem of sticking. Where this is the case cut a couple of pieces of wood to the same dimensions as the original runners, smooth with a medium abrasive paper and drill with the smallest wood drill bit in your toolbox to take the small diameter of the fixing panel pins or nails. Apply a thin coat of wood adhesive to the back of the new runner- press into position- and affix with pins.

Drawer bases can also suffer the adverse effects of overloading. In time they will begin to sag and eventually they can split completely, requiring replacement. In this case, cut a new base piece from either plywood or from a hardwood of choice. Next, remove the nails or pins securing the damaged base to the body of the drawer using pincers, and remove any glue blocks that may be attached using a mallet and wood chisel. Replace with new base by gluing and using pins.

Drawer bases that are split may be sometimes repaired, that is to say; simply remove both halves from the drawer body and glue them back together. From a strength point of view, depending on usage, this may not be the best option.