Mechanism repair

Mechanism Repair

When a mechanism in furniture stops working properly, everyday tasks quickly become frustrating. A drawer that sticks, a cabinet door that drops, or a recliner that will not lock can also lead to further damage if forced. Our mechanism repair service focuses on restoring smooth, safe movement while protecting the structure and finish of your furniture. We diagnose the cause, repair or replace worn parts, and adjust everything so it works as it should.

What We Repair

Furniture mechanisms come in many forms, from simple hinges to complex lift systems. We handle repairs for both residential and commercial items, including frequently used pieces that wear out faster.

• Hinges and door movement including alignment issues, sagging doors, and uneven gaps
• Drawer mechanisms such as runners, soft close systems, and broken slides
• Handles and fittings including loose pulls, stripped screws, and broken mounts
• Folding and lifting systems like lift up cabinet doors, storage beds, and drop leaf tables
• Stability and structure including loose joints, wobbling frames, and weak connection points

If your issue relates to assembly errors or missing hardware, we can also help through our furniture repair services, ensuring the full unit is secure and correctly supported.

Common Problems and Their Real Causes

Many mechanism failures start small and then escalate. A slightly loose hinge can pull screws out of chipboard. A misaligned drawer can wear down runners. Even a small twist in a cabinet frame can cause doors to bind and scrape.

Loose joints and movement

Repeated use and vibration gradually loosen fixings, especially in flat pack furniture. We tighten, rebuild, or reinforce joints so the mechanism is not fighting against a shifting frame. This can include adding better fixings, repairing stripped holes, or strengthening weak panels.

Hinge issues and door alignment

Doors that will not close properly often need more than a quick tweak. We check hinge wear, mounting integrity, and the squareness of the carcass. Where required, we carry out hinge replacement services and precise door alignment services for a clean, even finish.

Drawer repair and runner replacement

Sticking drawers may be caused by damaged slides, poor installation, debris, or a swollen panel. We perform drawer repair services including runner replacement, realignment, and hardware upgrades to restore smooth travel and reliable soft close action where applicable.

Our Repair Process

Mechanism repair works best when the diagnosis is thorough and the fix is matched to the materials involved. We take care with laminate, veneer, and chipboard surfaces to avoid chipping and further cracking during disassembly.

1. Assessment We inspect the mechanism, fixing points, and surrounding structure to identify the root cause.
2. Plan We explain what needs to be repaired, what parts may be replaced, and what improvements will extend service life.
3. Repair and reinforcement We rebuild weak points, correct alignment, and replace worn hardware using compatible fittings.
4. Testing We test movement repeatedly, check load bearing, and confirm doors and drawers sit correctly.
5. Finishing touches Where needed, we carry out minor touch ups and tidy fixings for a neat result.

Some issues are tied to how an item was originally built. If you have new flat pack items or furniture that was moved and reassembled, our professional furniture assembly support can prevent recurring mechanism failures by ensuring everything is square, level, and properly anchored.

When Repair Makes Sense vs Replacement

Replacing furniture is not always the best option. A quality cabinet, bed frame, or office unit can often be restored by addressing a few worn components. Repair is especially worthwhile when the structure is still solid and the problem is limited to hardware, alignment, or local damage around fixing points.

• Choose repair when the frame is strong, the finish is in good condition, and the mechanism is serviceable with parts or adjustments.
• Consider replacement when panels are extensively swollen, cracked through, or the furniture is no longer safe under normal use.
• Extend lifespan with preventative tightening and leveling, especially on wardrobes, cabinets, and high use office furniture.

Care, Maintenance, and Prevention

A few simple habits can reduce wear on mechanisms. Avoid slamming doors and drawers, do not overload shelves beyond their rating, and check that furniture remains level on uneven floors. If you notice early signs like squeaking, rubbing, or doors drifting out of line, prompt attention prevents stripped fixings and broken parts.

For ongoing support, we can also assist with furniture maintenance services, including tightening, leveling, and minor adjustments that keep mechanisms operating smoothly for longer.

Whether you need a quick adjustment or a full hardware replacement, our mechanism repair service restores safe, reliable operation and helps your furniture feel solid and effortless to use again.