Custom furniture hardware - what is whole house custom hardware 2

Understanding the Significance of Custom Hardware in Whole House Design

Custom-made hardware plays a crucial role in whole house design as it accounts for only 5% of the furniture cost but contributes to 85% of the overall operating comfort. This means that investing 5% of the price in high-quality custom hardware can provide 85% of the value in terms of usability. Hence, it is cost-effective to choose good hardware for your whole house design. Custom hardware can be broadly categorized into two types: basic hardware, which is used in every household, and functional hardware, primarily designed to meet storage requirements.

Commonly recognized brands for basic hardware include DTC (also known as Dongtai), Hettich, BLUM, and higold highbasic hardware. These brands offer slide rails and hinges, the core elements of basic hardware, that are widely used in every household. DTC, Blum, and Hettich are some of the most common brands available in shopping malls, although they can be quite expensive. To get an idea of the actual price range, it is recommended to check prices on online platforms like Taobao.

When it comes to domestic hardware, higold is an excellent brand that caters to basic needs and offers strong and affordable hardware options. For imported hardware, Hettich and Blum stand out as the highest level of craftsmanship in Europe, focusing on creativity, individuality, durability, and addressing design challenges.

Functional hardware, on the other hand, includes cabinet hardware, wardrobe hardware, bathroom hardware, and other customized matching hardware for your home. It primarily caters to your storage needs. Representative brands for functional hardware include Nomi and Higold.

Considering the current popularity of whole house customization in home decoration, it has become essential for most families. Customization allows you to tailor your furniture and its installation according to your specific requirements, ensuring a coordinated and maximized use of available space. However, with the increasing presence of numerous brands in the market, the quality of whole house customization can vary significantly. One major area of concern in whole house customization is the addition of extra items, with hardware being a significant aspect.

Let's discuss some key factors to consider when choosing custom hardware for your whole house:

1. Basic Hardware:

- Hinges: There are three common types of hinges available - full-covered straight bends, half-covered middle bends, and built-in large bends. Carefully select the appropriate hinge type based on your usage needs and design preferences. While all hinge types have their advantages, the half-covered middle bend is the most commonly used and easily replaceable hinge type.

- Drawer Tracks: The most common drawer slide rail available in the market is the ball-type rail, which comes in two versions - three-section rail and two-section rail. It is recommended to choose the three-section rail as it is extensively used in whole house customization projects due to its simplicity, scientific design, and smooth operation. Additionally, hidden bottom rails and riding slides are less commonly used options, with the latter being relatively expensive. For sliding doors, track quality primarily depends on the material used, and it is advisable to opt for swing doors whenever possible as they are more practical and visually appealing.

- Guide Wheels: Guide wheels are divided into hanging wheels and pulleys. The smoothness and durability of cabinet doors depend on the quality of these wheels. Choose guide wheels made of glass fiber material as they are wear-resistant and offer superior smoothness compared to plastic or metal options.

- Support Hardware: There are two types of support hardware - gas struts and hydraulic rods. These serve the same purpose but have different structural designs. While hydraulic rods are rare, pneumatic rods are commonly used in the market. Choose pneumatic struts from reputable brands as they are cost-effective and well-established in terms of technology.

2. Precautions for Additional Costs:

- Basic Hardware: Generally, conventional basic hardware doesn't incur additional charges, as it is already included in the projected area's unit price. However, it is advisable to clarify the brand, model, and installation quantity during early negotiations to avoid potential extra items later on. Some merchants may try to upsell you better products during installation, but be cautious as these recommendations can often be a trap. Clearly specify the hardware parameters before signing the contract and avoid any casual adjustments later.

- Functional Hardware: Functional hardware is typically not included in the unit price of the projected area. Make sure to clearly mention the item and price details in the contract. Many merchants may offer promotional discounts on poor-quality hardware and later suggest changing to a different brand. Avoid falling into this trap by selecting the desired hardware for each function upfront and refraining from making adjustments later.

At AOSITE Hardware, our focus is on continuously improving product quality through research and development. With years of experience, we have mastered various production technologies such as welding, chemical etching, surface blasting, and polishing, which contribute to delivering superior performance. Our Drawer Slides are known for their durability, precise cutting, and minimal color shading in printing. With a dedication to technical innovation and environmental protection, we strive to maintain efficiency and safety in our production processes.

In conclusion, custom hardware plays a significant role in whole house design, ensuring comfortable and efficient usage of furniture. It is crucial to pay attention to the quality and specifications of hardware when selecting it for your home. By carefully considering the options available and clarifying the details before signing the contract, you can avoid additional costs and ensure a well-designed and functional whole house customization.