How to Remove Metal Cabinets
Removing metal cabinets can seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be done safely and efficiently. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to remove metal cabinets yourself.
Gather the Necessary Materials
Before starting the removal process, make sure you have all the necessary materials on hand:
- Safety goggles and work gloves – for eye and hand protection
- Pry bar – to help loosen the cabinets from the walls
- Hammer – to tap the pry bar and loosen nail heads
- Screwdriver and wrench set – to remove screws, bolts, and fittings
- Tin snips – to cut through any metal flashing or housing
- Stud finder – to locate wood studs behind cabinet walls
- Sandpaper and metal file – for smoothing rough edges
- Shop vacuum – to contain dust and debris
- Drop cloths or tarps – to protect floors and surfaces from damage
Make sure you have a clear workspace and all the tools required for safe removal. It’s also a good idea to turn off power at the main breaker panel before starting.
Empty Out the Cabinets
Before removing the cabinets themselves, empty out all contents carefully. Remove any shelving, racks or hardware stored inside. Make note of any layouts or positioning you want to recreate later.
Place contents in temporary storage or cover with drop cloths to protect from dust and debris during removal. Discard any trash or unusable items.
Thoroughly cleaning out the cabinets makes the removal process easier and prevents belongings from being misplaced or damaged.
Remove Doors, Drawers and Hardware
Use a screwdriver to detach all doors and drawers from cabinet frames. Remove any knobs, handles or hinges.
It’s easier to detach cabinet components before removing the entire unit from the wall. Set hardware aside together so it can be reused or replaced later.
Take care when removing doors and drawers to avoid cracking or splitting the wood. Slide out removable shelves and racks as well.
Cut Through Caulk, Sealant or Molding
Examine the cabinets to see if they are sealed to the wall with caulk or other adhesive. Use a utility knife to slice through caulk beads, sealant or trim molding around the edges.
Cutting through these materials will make the cabinets easier to detach from the wall. Be careful not to damage the surrounding wall surface while cutting.
Locate and Remove Mounting Screws
Most metal cabinets are secured with metal screws driven into wall studs. Use a stud finder to locate studs behind the cabinets.
With the cabinets emptied, you will be able to access the inside rear panel. Look for screw heads along the top and sides at stud locations. You may need to poke holes in the back panel to find hidden screws.
Use a screwdriver to remove all screws, anchors and brackets from the studs and wall surface. Tin snips can cut through attached metal flashing.
Removing all screws and fasteners should fully detach the cabinets from the wall. Be thorough to ensure no screws are left partly in the wall.
Pry Cabinets Away From the Wall
With fasteners removed, the cabinets should be ready to pull away from the wall. Place a pry bar into the gap between the cabinet and wall. Tap it gently with a hammer if necessary.
Start prying at the top and work downward, taking care not to damage the surrounding wall. Wear gloves for grip and protection. Rocking the pry bar back and forth should loosen the seal.
Apply steady force to work the cabinets off the wall little by little. Keep the pry bar perpendicular to the wall to prevent unnecessary damage.
Cut Through Stubborn Flashings or Housings
If any metal flashing, housings or trim prove difficult to detach with the pry bar alone, use tin snips to cut through them.
Safely cutting through stubborn metal will help free the cabinets without damaging the surrounding walls. Again, wear gloves and goggles during cutting.
Try not to leave sharp metal edges that could pose a hazard later. File or sand down any rough edges. Save any unsalvageable scrap metal to be recycled.
Remove Cabinets and Transport Safely
With all screws removed and seal broken, the metal cabinets should come free from the wall. Carefully tilt and angle them out, seeking help for heavy units.
Be aware of any wall anchors or attachments that could scratch the cabinet interiors. Set cabinets down gently to prevent dents or damage.
Dispose of removed cabinets properly, either by recycling the metal or taking them to a construction waste facility. For reuse, transport carefully using moving blankets and secure strapping.
Prepare the Walls for New Cabinets
With the old metal cabinets fully removed, some wall repair will be needed before installing replacements. Fill any holes or gouges in the drywall with spackle compound, allowing it to dry completely.
Sand rough edges around screw holes so the area is smooth. Wipe away any residual caulk, grease or dirt with denatured alcohol. This helps the new fasteners or adhesives adhere properly.
Carefully removed metal cabinets leaves the wall clean and ready for fresh paint, wallpaper or new cabinet installation.
Safety Tips for Removing Metal Cabinets
- Turn off power at the main breaker panel before starting
- Wear protective goggles, gloves and respiratory mask
- Work slowly and carefully when prying cabinets off walls
- Get help lifting and transporting heavy cabinets
- Dispose of sharp, protruding screws, anchors and flashings
- File or sand any rough metal edges smooth
- Clean up debris and dust with a shop vacuum
- Have a first aid kit available in case of minor cuts or abrasions
Benefits of Removing Metal Cabinets Yourself
- Saves on high labor costs of professional removal
- Allows customizing new cabinet installations
- Opportunity to modify or upgrade surrounding walls
- Satisfaction of DIY accomplishments and learning
- Can be done gradually at your own pace
- Greater control over demolition dust and debris
Proper planning, safety precautions, and the right tools allow determined homeowners to take on full-scale metal cabinet removal projects themselves. Just take it slowly, seek help when necessary, and be thorough in preparing the clean slate for replacement cabinets.
Frequently Asked Questions About Removing Metal Cabinets
How do I remove old metal cabinets that are stuck to the wall?
Use a pry bar and hammer to break the seal around stuck cabinets. Tap the pry bar gently to wedge between the cabinet and wall. Remove any screws or nails first. Cut through caulk with a utility knife. Take care not to damage the surrounding wall surface.
What tools do I need to remove metal cabinets?
Common tools for metal cabinet removal include pry bars, hammers, screwdrivers, wrenches, tin snips, sandpaper, stud finders, shop vacuums and gloves. Have a first aid kit on hand as well.
Should I try to salvage or reuse metal cabinets?
Old metal cabinets can often be recycled or repurposed if still structurally sound and clean. Dented, badly rusted or unsanitary cabinets are better off being discarded. Evaluate carefully before attempting salvage.
What do I do with the empty space once metal cabinets are removed?
After removing metal cabinets, repair any wall damage then paint or install new wall coverings. The empty space provides an opportunity to upgrade countertops, flooring, lighting and more around the former cabinet footprint.
Is it cheaper to remove cabinets yourself or hire a contractor?
Professional cabinet removal can cost $50-$100 per hour or more. DIY removal saves money but requires more time, labor and disposal work. Consider your budget, abilities and schedule.
Conclusion
Removing metal cabinets takes physical effort but is very doable without professional help. The key steps include prepping your tools, emptying contents, detaching components, locating all screws, prying carefully off the wall, disposing properly, and cleaning the open space.
Work slowly, follow safety procedures, and do not damage surrounding walls. The end result is a smooth transition to your new kitchen design or bathroom remodel. With the right approach and materials, those outdated metal cabinets can come down in a day or weekend.
