3 Common Types Of Drawer Slides Finishes

Drawer slides are used universally in many cabinets and hardware systems. As a cabinet manufacturer, you are expected to install the highest quality slides for your customers. And while its load-bearing capabilities are certainly important, so is its finish. The finish of a drawer slide determines its longevity, as it offers significant protection from corrosion. Therefore before installing these slides, make sure they have one of these 3 common finishes. 

Varieties Of Drawer Slide Finishes

Blue Zinc Plated

The most common finish used in drawer slides, these have a coating of zinc on the surface. Zinc has excellent anti-corrosive properties, making them perfect as a finishing layer. This finish adds a bluish tinge to the drawer slide

Yellow Zinc Plated

This type of finish also uses zinc to give anti-corrosive properties to cabinet hardware. The only major difference is, instead of a blue tinge, this type of finish adds a yellowish hue. However, when compared between the two, yellow zinc plating offers increased resistance to corrosion. 

Black Electrolytic Coating

Lastly, drawer slides can also get a black finish with a black electrolytic coating. In this type of finish, the drawer slide or relevant hardware is placed in an electrolyte solution. Then electricity is passed through the solution, creating an even layer of black coating on the material’s surface. 

Therefore, before choosing drawer slides while assembling cabinets, make sure they have a decent surface finish. For better quality, stick with yellow-plated zinc or black electrolytic coating. If there are budget constraints, then a blue zinc-plated finish should suffice.

Looking for durable and versatile cabinet hardware? Reach out to us at Kipco Hardware. A family-owned kitchen cabinet hardware supplier from Kitchener, we firmly stand behind the quality of our products. Contact us today to place an order or ask for a quote.