How to Fix a Broken Wood Dresser Track
Background and Identification
A drawer is a box-shaped contained that fits into a piece of furniture. Drawers can typically be pulled out horizontally so users can reach its contents. Drawers are often used in cabinets, dressers, and desks. Mechanical drawer slides include rollers and metal guides. Because of their simple construction, drawers are typically easy to repair.
Drawers can be built from wood, wood composites, sheet metal, and plastic materials. Many older and inexpensive furniture pieces use wooden tracks or sliders. When drawers begin to stick, the wood sliders can be lubricated with paraffin wax or a bar of soap. Newer furniture and cabinets often use plastic friction tracks or bearings slides. These are designed to provide smoother operation.
If your drawers are not opening smoothly, is rubbing against the frame, or is stuck, the hardware may be worn out and require replacement. Before replacing the mechanisms, try adjusting the drawers. Drawer slide adjustments can be completed using oval-shaped screws at the back of the drawer. If the drawer is too tight, sticks, or rubs against the sides, loosen the screws and adjust the drawer shape slightly, then tighten the screws.
Drawer slide types include side-mounted slides, bottom-mounted slides, and bottom-mount single drawer slides.