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Are Aluminum Drawer Runners Better Than Steel?

2025-07-05 13:14:21
Are Aluminum Drawer Runners Better Than Steel?


A comparison between steel and aluminium drawer runners_CHAINROLLER

Aluminum runner drawers are lightweight and convenient to install. They’re not going to rust, so they won’t be ruined from water. That being said, aluminum is more prone to bending or breaking than steel — especially if you have heavy items in your drawer.

Metal drawer runners made with metal are stronger than fashioning runners with aluminum. They can support a greater amount of weight without bending or breaking. Steel is also very durable and can take a lot of abuse before wearing out. The only problem is, steel can rust when it comes into contact with moisture or is scratched.

The Pros and Cons of Aluminum Drawer Runners

Aluminum drawer runners work well with light drawers that won’t contain heavy items. They are also easy to clean. But aluminum can be more expensive than steel and not as strong.

Steel drawer runners are ideal for deep, heavy drawers that store lots of stuff. They are super-strong and can support a ton. But — steel can be difficult to install and may rust if not properly cared for.

Why Steel is the Only Choice for Drawer Runners

Steel drawer runners work better for drawers that are required to hold heavy weight. They are stur­dy, resilient and durable. Steel is less apt to bend or break, even with heavy use.

Aluminum vs Steel Drawer Runners Price.Expressions by IMP Aluminium Drawer Runner Set of 2 R42.68.Expressions by IMP Steel Runner Drawer Set of 2 R36.96

At one go aluminum drawer runners make cost more than steel. But they’re easier to install and require less maintenance. This can be a time- and money-saver later.

Steel drawer runners could be cheaper to purchase initially. But they can be more difficult to install and may require more attention over time. This may ultimately end up costing you more money later on.

Considerations When Selecting Drawer Runners

For aluminium or self closing drawer slide. Consider how heavy the items are going to be in your drawer when deciding between steel and aluminium drawer runners. If you need to hang heavy items, steel may be the optimal material. If your possessions are lighter weight, aluminum may be just fine.

Consider your budget for drawer runners. Related: Steel is cheaper upfront, but aluminum can save you money later.

And what kind of care time do you want to put in? Aluminum is less fussy to maintain, whereas steel might require an extra touch or two to keep it from rusting.

To sum up, there are pros and cons of both aluminum and steel drawer runners. It really just boils down to what you need and how much you’re willing to pay. HVPAL has many types of drawer runners available for you to choose from, for your drawers’ application. Don’t forget to factor in weight, strength, price and maintenance when making your choice.