Avoiding Common Mistakes When Installing Furniture Legs

Have you ever fitted new furniture legs only to realise they wobble or don't feel secure?

Strong, long-lasting furniture isn’t only about picking the right legs. It also comes down to how you install them. At Urban Hardware, we know that a good finish is equal parts quality products and a little know-how. Here are five common mistakes people make when installing furniture legs and how to avoid them.

1. Poor Measurement and Placement
Rushing the setup is frequently the main problem. Spend some time measuring and marking the locations of each leg before drilling anything. Because stability depends on symmetry, the entire piece may wobble if one leg is a little off. Please mark the spots with a pencil and a tape measure, making sure to double-check them. When our aluminium sofa legs or wooden table legs are aligned correctly, the finished product is stable, well-balanced, and tidy.

2. Using the Wrong Hardware
Even the best legs can feel unsteady if the screws or plates are not installed correctly. The proper mounting plates and screws needed to support weight and maintain stability are included with many of our legs. While too-long fasteners may push through and harm the top of your furniture, short screws will not hold firmly. Always use the hardware that was provided, or if you're not sure, ask us for advice.

3. Skipping Pilot Holes
Pilot holes are a necessary step, even though it may be tempting to screw right in. To prevent the wood from splitting and to ensure that the screws are inserted straight, start by drilling tiny guide holes. It only takes a few minutes and has a significant impact on the durability of your furniture.

4. Over or Under Tightening
Many people are caught off guard by this one. While loose screws cause legs to wobble, overtight screws can strip the holes. Once the fasteners feel snug and firm, the key is to stop. To avoid overdoing it, set the drill to low torque if you're using one. Your legs will remain stable for years if you're doing it right.

5. Ignoring Weight and Load
Not all legs suit every piece of furniture. A delicate leg under a heavy sofa will wear out quickly. Heavier furniture needs stronger support. That is why we stock a wide range, from solid chrome legs to sturdy aluminium options, so you can match the leg to the job.

You can save time, frustration, and additional repair work by avoiding these mistakes. You can upgrade your furniture in a safe and fashionable way with a few basic tools, good planning, and high-quality legs from Urban Hardware.