How can I properly repair stripped-out cabinets to prevent future hold issues?
Asked by Alexander Christiansen 
4 months ago
Last Updated: July 26, 2024
I’ve got a few cabinets that are falling apart and not holding up well. Any tips on how to fix them properly so I don’t have to keep fixing them over and over again?
How about using wood glue and toothpicks, or even something as thin as a toothpick?
Decided to use longer screws after pre-drilling the holes.
For the holes, try using wood filler. Make sure to work it in firmly, then let it dry before sanding it down.
That hole is too big for the regular toothpick trick. You’ll need to upgrade to the golf “T”. Golf T’s are thicker and made of hardwood so they will hold up better. Add some glue to the holes and the golf T, then insert it into the gap. No need to wait for it to dry. Create a new hole with a pre-drill and hang up your doors. Finished!
Hey, , make sure it doesn’t break the pattern. Using multiple toothpicks is a safer option. I usually start with a small hole using a 1/8 or 3/16 drill bit.
That’s true, but just look at the size of that hole. It definitely calls for a golf tee.
Some tees are thicker, right? Well, at least mine are. I prefer using taller tees.
Yeah it’s all good. Actually, when it’s almost there with toothpicks, I turn the thicker side in to make sure it fits snugly and covers the hole.
Agrees.
You could try drilling a 5/16 hole, then gluing in a 5/16 dowel and cutting it flush. Alternatively, go for a 1/2 inch hole and dowel. It’s super easy!
‘s best advice. Get it done right the first time.
I’ve personally used epoxy tubes in the past. They held up for many years before I replaced my kitchen. You can also find sticks at pool stores that you mix, fill the hole, let it dry, and pre-drill before installation.
You could also try stuffing some cotton in the hole, saturating it with super glue, and allowing it to dry.
A dowel the right size would be ideal, but if the golf T fits well, go ahead and use that. Try to avoid painted dowels so the wood glue can work its magic. Otherwise, use a 1/4″ drill bit and a 1/4″ wooden dowel, apply wood glue, and trim after the glue dries. Leave the dowel slightly longer so you can cut it flush once dry.
Simple solution. Longer screw. Oftentimes, very short screws are used in cabinet doors.
Agrees. Maybe consider filling the hole with a toothpick and glue to prevent the screw from wobbling.
For more information on repairing cabinet door hinges, try looking it up on Google or Amazon with the search term ‘cabinet door hinge repair.’
When using toothpicks, it’s best not to forcefully insert a golf tee as it may cause the cabinet to split. Four toothpicks are usually enough to solve the problem.
Grab some wood glue and toothpicks, put a bit of glue in the hole, roll a toothpick in the glue, and insert it into the hole as deep as it will go. Snap off any excess. Repeat this process until you can’t fit any more in. Allow it to dry, then use a sharp chisel or razor knife to remove any extra. Finally, drill a new pilot hole and reattach the hinge.
Approves of this.
Wood glue with toothpicks or wood glue mixed with sawdust. Use a small putty knife to push it in, smooth it out, and let it dry. Sand and stain if desired, then pre-drill new holes with a drill bit slightly smaller than the hinge screws.
Sawdust and glue blend, used to fill the hole.
Try mixing glue with sawdust to fill the holes, and then drill them for a sturdy fix.
Consider using door mending plates for extra reinforcement.
First things first, make sure to tell everyone in the house to avoid hanging off the cabinet doors like monkeys. When it comes to fixing holes, you can try using toothpicks and carpenter’s glue, or even epoxy and toothpicks. For a more durable solution, consider drilling out the holes to fit a hardwood dowel and then gluing the dowel in place. Once the repair has dried, pre-drill the holes for the hinges and use the longest screws that will fit the frame.
This is the type of thing you can find
Use wood filler or a larger cabinet screw
Use larger screws and wood filler to bond
Use glue and toothpicks, wait for it to dry, then remove excess
Put toothpicks in there
Hey, , don’t forget to add some glue. Allow it to dry, then tighten the screws again.
Yep, !
You can use toothpicks and glue for this task.
Enlarge the holes by drilling them out. Insert a wooden dowel and then reattach the hardware. Wood glue is stronger than regular wood and will provide a more secure mounting surface.