How to Move Metal Dividers in a File Cabinet

Moving metal dividers in a file cabinet allows you to reorganize your files and optimize the space inside the cabinet. With some simple tools and techniques, you can easily remove and rearrange the dividers without damaging them or the cabinet itself.

Introduction

Metal dividers are an integral part of any good filing cabinet system. They help segment the drawers into organized sections, ensuring files stay properly categorized. However, over time as your filing needs change, you may find it necessary to move these dividers around to better suit your evolving storage requirements.

Relocating metal dividers is a straightforward process, but there are some useful tips to follow that will make the job easier and prevent any damage. This guide will walk you through the necessary preparations, tools, and step-by-step instructions for safely and effectively moving metal dividers in a file cabinet.

Reasons for Moving Dividers

There are several common reasons you may need to move your file cabinet dividers:

Expanding or Condensing Sections

If certain sections of your cabinet are overfilled while others remain sparse, moving the dividers allows you to redistribute the space. You can expand the crowded sections and condense the emptier ones.

New Categorization Method

Over time your filing system may change, requiring the reorganization of your folders into new categories. Moving the dividers lets you allocate space appropriately for the new grouping.

Changing Drawer Use

You may decide to change what you store in each drawer, necessitating divider adjustments to fit the new drawer contents.

Damaged or Poorly Placed Dividers

Sometimes dividers are not properly installed or become damaged. Relocating them can fix alignment and positioning problems.

Gain Access to Back of Drawer

Moving dividers allows access to the very back section of a drawer that may otherwise be obstructed.

Preparations

To ensure moving file cabinet dividers goes smoothly, there are some important preparations to make:

Clear Out Drawers

Remove all folder contents before attempting to move dividers. This gives you free access and visibility without obstruction.

Have New Layout Planned

Map out your new divider configuration before starting so you know exactly where to move them. This will make the process faster and more organized.

Gather Proper Tools

Having the right tools on hand will make removing and relocating dividers much simpler. The necessary supplies are covered in the next section.

Protect Surrounding Surfaces

Lay down cloth or cardboard around the cabinet so tools do not scratch or dent floors, walls, or nearby furnishings.

Allow Ample Time

Make sure you have enough time set aside to carefully complete all steps without feeling rushed. Moving dividers requires patience and care.

Necessary Tools

These basic tools are recommended for smoothly removing and repositioning metal filing cabinet dividers:

• Flathead screwdriver – Used for prying up dividers from channels. Choose a medium size with 6 to 8 inch shaft.
• Needle nose pliers – Helpful for extracting stubborn dividers or ones stuck in back. Get a pair with insulated handles.
• Work gloves – Protect hands from sharp metal edges during removal and installation. Leather or cotton gloves preferred.
• Ruler or tape measure – Ensure accurate new divider placement based on your planned layout.
• Hammer – Soft mallet type is best for lightly tapping dividers into new channels.
• Trash can – For discarding any small metal pieces that break off during the process.
• Vacuum – To clean out filing dust and debris from empty drawers before replacing contents.

Step-by-Step Guide

Once you have made the necessary preparations and gathered the needed tools, follow these step-by-step instructions for moving metal dividers:

Remove Existing Dividers

1. Open the file drawer completely to access the entire space.
2. Locate the side channels that the divider slides into. You will see small metal tabs protruding from the channel to hold the divider in place.
3. Using your flathead screwdriver, gently pry up the tabs so they are flattened against the channel sidewall. Go slowly to avoid breaking them.
4. Slide the freed divider forward until it detaches from the rear channel. Be careful not to bend it.
5. Use pliers to remove any dividers that don’t slide forward easily. Grip near the tabs and wiggle firmly but gently.
6. Repeat steps for any remaining dividers until the drawer is fully cleared.

Clean Out Channels

Before installing dividers in new positions, take time to clean out the channels:

• Vacuum dust and debris from the empty channels.
• Carefully straighten any bent metal tabs using pliers and screwdriver.
• Remove any small detached pieces from the channels.
• Wipe down with clean cloth to remove grime and pencil marks.

Install Dividers in New Locations

Once channels are prepped, move on to reinserting the dividers:

1. Refer to your preplanned layout to identify the divider spacing needed.
2. Measure and mark the new divider positions with pencil lightly along the channels.
3. Align one divider end tab with the rear channel mark. Keep divider body perpendicular.
4. Use gloved hands or soft mallet to tap divider into the rear channel until fully seated.
5. Slide divider forward until aligned with corresponding front channel mark.
6. Firmly push the divider end tabs into the front channel until they lock in place.
7. Repeat installation steps for any remaining dividers. Refer frequently to your layout plan.
8. Give dividers a final firm push to verify they are locked securely in position.

Troubleshooting Issues

Despite best efforts, you may encounter some problems when moving metal dividers. Here are solutions for some common challenges:

Divider Tabs Won’t Stay Flattened

• Try hammering them down with a mallet or pliers instead of just a screwdriver.
• If tabs are damaged/broken, they may need to be replaced. Contact the cabinet manufacturer.

Dividers Are Stuck In Channel

• First double check all tabs are flattened properly.
• Try gently wiggling or rotating the divider while pulling outward.
• Use pliers to get enhanced gripping power on the end of the divider.

Channels Have Rust Buildup

• Use steel wool or fine sandpaper to gently rub off rust from channel walls.
• Wipe down with mineral spirits for stubborn rust residue. Allow to fully dry.
• Consider a rust-inhibiting spray paint if rust is extensive.

Dividers Won’t Align With Marks

• Verify drawer is fully extended before measuring and marking.
• Double check measurements and mark locations carefully in pencil.
• File down any excess metal tab length interfering with proper positioning.

Maintaining Dividers

To prevent issues and keep dividers functioning properly long term, implement these important maintenance practices:

• Wipe down dividers regularly when cleaning drawer interiors to prevent grime buildup.
• Avoid overloading dividers with files as weight stress can cause bending.
• Periodically check dividers are still firmly locked in channels and have not slipped out of position.
• Look for damaged or detached tabs and repair/replace them promptly.
• If tabs no longer grip properly, carefully bend them outward slightly to restore tension.
• Lightly lubricate sliding mechanism annually using cabinet spray lubricant or dry PTFE spray.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some of the most common questions people have about repositioning file cabinet dividers:

Are all file cabinet dividers removable?

Most modern file cabinets have dividers designed to be adjustable, but very old antique cabinets may have fixed dividers. Check for tabs in the side channels to confirm yours are removable.

What tools do I need?

A flathead screwdriver, pliers, mallet, ruler, and work gloves are the basic tools required. The instructions list other optional helpful supplies.

How long does it take?

Plan on at least 20 minutes per drawer to properly remove, clean, and reinstall dividers. Rushed efforts can lead to damaged components.

Can IREUSE damaged dividers?

It’s best to replace dividers with broken tabs or sections since they won’t slide or secure properly. Straightened bent ones can sometimes be reused successfully.

Should I label the new sections?

Yes, labeling each newly organized section makes filing easier and less confusing. Use removable adhesive labels on the dividers themselves.

Do I need to remove hanging file bars?

Most hanging file bars do not interfere with moving dividers and can be left in place. The dividers install over them.

How do I clean rusty channels?

Use steel wool or sandpaper for scrubbing off rust, and mineral spirits for stubborn deposits. Dry thoroughly before reinstalling dividers.

Conclusion

Moving metal dividers is an easy DIY project using standard tools and the detailed steps in this guide. With some careful planning and gentle technique, you can rearrange your filing cabinet dividers to better suit your evolving organizational needs. Just be sure to make the necessary preparations, assemble the recommended tool kit, and follow the instructions closely.

Remember to take it slowly, double check measurements, and be cautious not to overbend components. Your effort will be rewarded with a smoothly reconfigured filing system. If you ever feel unsure about tackling this project yourself, a professional organizer can also assist. Proper divider placement optimizes your filing cabinet storage capacity and makes categorizing and finding folders far more convenient.