Replacing kitchen handles without drilling is the quickest way to give your kitchen a fresh new look. Unscrew the old handles and fit new ones into the same pre-drilled holes. Below you will find out when this is possible, what you need and how to do it step by step, including for bathroom cabinet or wardrobe handles.
Short answer
Yes, you can replace kitchen handles without drilling if the new handle has the same center-to-center measurement as the old one. Measure the distance between the centres of the two screw holes, for example 128 mm, and choose a handle in exactly that size. With a screwdriver and the included screws, you can easily replace a handle in just a few minutes.
When can you replace kitchen handles without drilling?
It depends on the size and the number of screw holes of your current handles.
Without drilling
The new handle has the same center-to-center measurement as the old one, the old handle is secured with two screws and the pre-drilled holes are intact. Simply use the existing holes.
Drilling or modification required
The new handle has a different size, you want to switch from a knob with one hole to a handle with two holes, or the old holes are worn out. Read below what you can do in this case.
What do you need?
Requirements
A screwdriver, a tape measure or ruler and new kitchen handles in the correct size. The mounting screws are included with every handle from Grepenwinkel.nl. Only with an extra-thick or double front do you sometimes need longer screws.
Replace kitchen handles in 5 steps
Measure the center-to-center measurement
Measure from the center of one screw hole to the center of the other. This is the measurement you order, not the total length of the handle.
Count your cabinet doors and drawers
An average kitchen has around 20 cabinet doors and drawers. Measure several fronts, as different sizes can sometimes occur within a single kitchen.
Unscrew the old handle
Open the cabinet and loosen the screws on the inside. Hold the handle on the front so that it does not scratch the front.
Fit the new handle
Place the new handle over the existing holes and tighten the screws from the inside. Tighten firmly, but not too hard, so that the thread is not damaged.
Check that everything is straight
Check if the handle is straight and does not wobble. Repeat this for all cabinets and drawers, and your kitchen is ready.
Our tip: unsure about the size? First read how to measure the center-to-center measurement. The most common size in the Netherlands is 128 mm.
Problems when replacing handles and how to solve them
Do you want a handle in a different size?
Then you need to drill new holes, and the old holes will remain visible if the new handle does not cover them. A neat solution is to wrap your kitchen at the same time: fill the old holes, cover the front with VNSTRA interior film and then drill the holes for the new handle. You can read how that works in kitchen wrapping: what does it cost and how do you do it.
Does your cabinet only have one screw hole? Then a knob was fitted there. Choose a cabinet knob, which you can also fit without drilling.
Choose kitchen handles in your size
Frequently asked questions about replacing kitchen handles
Can I replace kitchen handles without drilling?
Yes, if the new handle has the same center-to-center measurement as the old one. Then you screw it into the existing pre-drilled holes.
Which screws do I need?
Every handle from Grepenwinkel.nl comes with short mounting screws. Only with an extra-thick or double front do you need longer screws with the same thread.
How long does it take to replace kitchen handles?
A few minutes per cabinet. An average kitchen with around 20 cabinet doors and drawers takes an afternoon or less.
What if my new handle has a different size?
Then you need to drill new holes. You can fill and cover the old holes with wrapping film, or you can choose a handle in your old size.
Can I also replace cabinet handles in the bathroom or wardrobe?
Yes. Our handles are also suitable for bathroom and wardrobe cabinets. Just check that the center-to-center measurement fits the existing pre-drilled holes.
Grepenwinkel.nl
New handles on your old pre-drilled holes
Kitchen handles and cabinet handles in solid stainless steel in black, silver and gold, in all standard sizes. Ordered before 15:00, delivered tomorrow.
Unsure about the size? Send us a photo of your current handle with a tape measure next to it, and we will find the right handle for you. Contact us. We wrap kitchens and fit handles for customers every day. Read our story.
