How to Remove Old Metal Cabinets

Removing old 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 old metal cabinets yourself.

Assess the Cabinets and Make a Plan

Before starting demolition, thoroughly examine the old metal cabinets and surrounding areas. Note their condition, construction, and any potential hazards. Important things to assess:

• Are the cabinets securely fastened to the wall studs or just resting on the floor? This will determine the tools and techniques needed to detach them.
• Check for indication that the cabinets contain lead-based paint. Take proper precautions if lead paint is suspected.
• Look for asbestos insulation around pipes behind or under the cabinets. Asbestos removal should be done by professionals.
• See if there is plumbing or electrical systems running through the cabinets that need disconnecting.

Once you’ve made a full assessment, make a plan for the demolition. Ensure you have all the right tools and equipment. Consider if you need help removing large or awkward cabinets.

Prepare the Workspace

Take steps to protect the rest of the room during demolition:

• Clear out everything from the cabinets and surrounding area.
• Cover the floor with a drop cloth or tarp to catch fallen debris.
• Seal off doorways with plastic sheeting to prevent dust from spreading.
• Turn off electricity and water supply lines prior to starting.
• Wear safety goggles, gloves, dust mask and other protective gear.

Proper preparation keeps your workspace clean and prevents accidental damage.

Remove Cabinet Doors and Drawers

The first demolition step is to detach all doors, drawers, and shelving from the main cabinet boxes.

• Carefully remove any existing screws, nails or pegs. Label pieces for reinstallation if refurbishing.
• Use a pry bar to gently pop doors and drawers loose if they are stuck or swollen from paint buildup.
• Set hardware like hinges and drawer glides aside for reuse or recycling.

Removing accessories first gives better access to the cabinet boxes for the next steps.

Detach Cabinets from Wall or Floor

With doors and shelves removed, now detach the actual metal cabinet boxes:

For floor-mounted cabinets:

• Locate where bottom meets the flooring and look for mounting screws or nails to remove.
• Use a flat pry bar to gently lift the cabinet base up once detached.
• Be aware that old metal cabinets may be very heavy once freed from the floor.

For wall-mounted cabinets:

• Find mounting screws or nails attaching the back or top to wall studs and remove them.
• Carefully pry between the wall and cabinet with a flat bar to break the seal of any caulking or adhesive.
• Consider using a reciprocating saw with a metal blade to cut between stubborn cabinets and wall.

Go slowly so old wall coverings or studs are not damaged when freed.

Disconnect Plumbing and Electrical

If removing cabinets around sinks or other appliances, use caution around any remaining plumbing or electrical:

• Turn off water supply lines and disconnect drain pipes. Cap lines for future use.
• Detach any electrical wires or switch boxes. Label wires for easy reconnection.
• Note locations of plumbing and wiring routed through cabinets for safe removal.

Proper disconnecting avoids water damage and electrocution hazards. Consider hiring a professional if uncomfortable handling plumbing or electrical yourself.

Remove and Dispose of the Cabinets

With everything disconnected, the old metal cabinets can now be safely removed.

• Carefully slide out or lower detached cabinets. Get help moving very large sections.
• Take cabinets apart if needed to fit through doorways or into a pickup truck bed for removal.
• Load and haul old cabinets to a metal recycling center or arranged junk pick-up.
• Clean up any debris left behind like old caulk and fallen screws.

Proper disposal keeps dangerous lead paint or asbestos out of landfills. Recycling metal cabinets gives the material a second life.

Finish the Job

With the old cabinets gone, finishing touches complete the project:

• Repair any cosmetic damage done to walls or floors during removal.
• Caulk or putty gaps left behind between walls. Prime and paint if needed.
• Reconnect plumbing lines to code if installing new cabinets in the same spot.
• Refurbish old cabinet doors, drawers and hardware to use again if desired.

Take pride in revitalizing your space with sturdy surfaces ready for new cabinets or other purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Removing Metal Cabinets

How do you remove old metal cabinets that are stuck?

Use a pry bar and hammer to gently break the seal of stubborn metal cabinets nailed or glued to wall studs. Lubricate sticky spots with penetrant spray. Take care not to bend flimsy metal or damage walls.

What tools do you need to take down old metal cabinets?

Handy tools include pry bars, hammers, a reciprocating saw, drill, pliers, screw drivers, putty knives, wrenches, and safety gear. Consider bolt cutters for rusted screws.

Can I sell or donate old metal kitchen cabinets?

If in good shape, metal cabinets can be sold on used markets or donated to organizations like Habitat for Humanity. Remove doors to make them less usable for liability reasons.

Is it worth refinishing old metal cabinets?

Solid metal cabinets can be sanded, primed and painted for a refreshed look. Weigh costs of supplies versus installing new prefabricated cabinets.

What do you do with old cabinet hinges and hardware?

Clean and save usable hinges, handles and drawer glides for handy spares. Donate extras to used building supply stores. Recycle those too damaged to reuse.

Conclusion

Removing old metal cabinets takes planning, care and patience. But with diligent safety steps and the right tools, even novices can achieve professional-looking results. Taking on this satisfying DIY project saves on contractor labor costs. Plus it keeps useful materials out of landfills either through salvaging or recycling metal components. With some sweat equity and the tips above, those outdated metal cabinets don’t stand a chance.