Kitchen renovations often involve replacing old cabinets with new ones. However, if your metal kitchen cabinets are still in good condition, you may want to consider repurposing them instead of sending them to the landfill. Pulling out metal kitchen cabinets can allow you to give your kitchen a new look without the high cost of brand new cabinetry. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to remove metal kitchen cabinets safely and efficiently.
Gather the Right Tools and Materials
Pulling out metal kitchen cabinets requires some specific tools and materials for the job. Here are the recommended items to have on hand:
- Safety gear – gloves, eye protection, knee pads
- Pry bar – for pulling out nails and loosening cabinets
- Hammer – for removing nails
- Screwdrivers – standard and Phillips head
- Oscillating multi-tool – for cutting through nails and caulk
- Utility knife – for scoring caulk and cutting through adhesives
- Putty knife – for scraping away old caulk and adhesive
- Plastic sheeting – to protect floors and surfaces
- Garbage bags – for removing cabinet debris
- Stud finder – for locating wall studs behind cabinets
Make sure you have all of these items ready before starting the cabinet removal process. The right tools will make pulling out the cabinets much easier.
Clear Out the Cabinets and Detach Appliances
Before attempting to remove the metal kitchen cabinets themselves, you need to clear out everything stored inside them. Take out all dishes, food items, cookware, and other belongings. As you remove items, use the opportunity to discard anything you no longer need.
Also, unplug any appliances incorporated into the cabinets, like dishwashers or microwaves. Detach them fully following the manufacturer’s instructions. This prevents damaging the devices when taking out the surrounding cabinetry.
Once all cabinet contents and integrated appliances are removed, you’re ready to start taking out the metal cabinets themselves.
Remove Doors, Drawers, and Hardware
Start dismantling the metal kitchen cabinets by detaching the doors and drawers. Taking these off allows easier access to remove the entire cabinet boxes later.
Use a screwdriver to remove any visible hinge screws or hardware attaching doors and drawers. Carefully pry off any snap-on hinges or hardware as well. Make sure to detach any sliding tracks or glide systems on drawers too.
Set aside any doors, drawers, or hardware you plan to reuse later. Stack them out of the way in an organized fashion to keep all the pieces together.
Cut Through Any Caulk or Adhesive
Most metal kitchen cabinets are sealed into place with caulk and adhesives for security and waterproofing. Cutting through these materials allows you to separate the cabinets from the walls and floor.
Use a sharp utility knife to slice any caulk beads sealing the cabinets to the walls or surrounding countertops. Scrape away as much caulk as possible with a putty knife too.
Check for any adhesive underneath or behind the cabinets also. Cut through any adhesives using the utility knife or oscillating tool. Adhesive may be attaching cabinets to each other, or securing them directly to the floor.
Locate and Remove Attached Screws
Once doors, drawers, and sealants are removed, you can access any screws securing the metal cabinet boxes to the walls and floor.
Use a stud finder to locate the wall studs behind the cabinets. Most screws will be driven into the studs for stability. Carefully note the locations to ensure no screws are missed.
Use a screwdriver to remove any exposed screws, usually located inside the cabinet or on upper trim pieces. For any visible or hidden screws underneath, lie on your back to access and remove them. Take your time finding all securing screws to fully detach the cabinets.
Check for Additional Nails
Some metal kitchen cabinets may be installed using nails for extra strength. If screws alone aren’t releasing the cabinets, carefully check for finishing nails driven into the surrounding studs or floor.
Use a pry bar slotted under the cabinet trim to feel for any hidden nails. Or probe with a screwdriver or awl to check for unseen nail heads. Locate each nail before attempting to pull the cabinets to prevent any damage.
Use a pry bar or hammer claw to carefully remove any nails found. Don’t yank cabinets forcefully before all nails are taken out. Removing nails can take finesse based on where they are driven in.
Cut Through any Nails
For any nails that are difficult to fully extract, you can cut through them instead. Use a reciprocating saw or oscillating tool to simply cut off the exposed nail shanks.
Just be very careful not to damage the surrounding walls or cabinets when cutting nails. Only slice through enough of the nail to allow pulling the cabinet free.
Cutting nails will make removing the cabinet easier and faster. Just take care to avoid any unintended cutting into counters, walls, or the cabinet structure.
Pry Cabinets Free From Walls and Floor
With all screws, nails, caulk and adhesive detached, the metal kitchen cabinets should now be ready to pull out fully. Carefully pry each cabinet away from the wall studs using your pry bar for leverage.
Once lifted slightly off the floor, slide them out to detach completely. Have an assistant help support larger cabinets as they are pried loose.
Work methodically from one end of the kitchen to the other when removing cabinets. Take your time to prevent damaging the surrounding walls or flooring.
Repair and Patch Holes
After all metal kitchen cabinets have been removed, some repair work will be needed. Hammer any remaining nails back into the wall studs so they don’t protrude.
Fill any holes left from removing screws with wood filler and let dry. Use spackling compound to patch nail holes or gouges in drywall.
Sand patched areas smooth once the filler has dried. Then repaint walls and use caulk to seal gaps or cracks around the edges.
Repairing resultant damage properly will leave you with a clean slate for installing new cabinets.
Safely Dispose of the Old Cabinets
Now that you’ve successfully removed the outdated metal kitchen cabinets, you need to properly handle disposal. Start by separating doors, drawers, and hardware to reuse or donate.
Break down large cabinet sections by removing any remaining shelves or interior parts. This allows fitting the discarded cabinets into trash bags or a dumpster.
If the cabinets are in usable shape, consider selling or donating them to individuals or organizations like Habitat for Humanity. This keeps the metal cabinets out of landfills.
For cabinets that are unsalvageable, arrange a special pickup or transport them to your local dump or recycling center. Recycle any metal components when possible.
Install New Replacement Cabinets
With the old metal kitchen cabinets fully removed and disposed of properly, it’s time for installation of new cabinetry.
Measure the empty wall space carefully to ensure new cabinets will fit accurately. Make repairs and refresh the wall surfaces so new cabinets start on an even, clean foundation.
Follow the detailed installation instructions included with your new cabinets. Most attach to wall studs using screws driven into pre-drilled pilot holes. Work methodically to hang all new cabinets squarely and securely.
If desired, install new countertops at this stage before reconnecting appliances and plumbing fixtures to the replacement cabinets.
Finally, seal the edges with color-matched caulk and add finishing touches like knobs, pulls, or soft-close hardware. Enjoy your kitchen’s fresh new look!
Preparing to Remove Metal Kitchen Cabinets
Pulling out metal kitchen cabinets can be physically demanding. Being well prepared makes the process faster, easier, and safer. Follow these recommended tips when getting set for a metal cabinet removal project:
Schedule Appropriate Time
Set aside enough time in your schedule to complete all steps of removing metal cabinets. Rushing increases the chances of damaging the surrounding kitchen or injuring yourself.
Block out periods when no one will need access to the kitchen area. This prevents disruptions or safety issues from having people around demolition work.
Protect Surrounding Surfaces
Cover appliances, countertops, and floors around the workspace with plastic sheeting. Secure sheeting with painters tape to safeguard surfaces from damage during cabinet removal.
Cushion the floor right under each cabinet with old towels or blankets. This prevents scratches, gouges, or cracks when prying cabinets loose.
Have an Assistant On Hand
Recruit a family member or friend to help with the cabinet removal process. Having an extra set of hands makes taking cabinets down much simpler and safer.
The assistant can help hold cabinets steady as they are detached from walls. Or catch them as they are fully pried loose and lowered down.
Wear Protective Gear
Use work gloves to protect hands from sharp edges or splinters. Knee pads cushion contact with hard floors during cabinet removal.
Safety goggles keep metal shards, sawdust and debris out of your eyes. A dust mask prevents inhaling fine particles.
Disconnect Utilities
Switch off any water supply lines or drains attached to the cabinets themselves. Shutting off water prevents leaks as cabinets are detached.
Disconnect any wiring running to under-cabinet lighting too. This keeps all utilities deactivated during removal work.
Clear Access Area
Remove freestanding appliances like dishwashers or refrigerators from the workspace. Push dining tables and other furnishings well out of the way too.
The emptier the room is, the more space you’ll have to maneuver cabinets loose and lower them safely. This also reduces potential damage to belongings.
Proper planning and preparation makes pulling out metal kitchen cabinets a smooth, problem-free process. Follow these tips to ensure the job goes safely and efficiently.
Helpful Tools for Removing Metal Kitchen Cabinets
Having the right tools on hand will ensure the metal cabinet removal process goes as smoothly as possible. Certain implements are particularly helpful for taking out old metal kitchen cabinets safely and efficiently.
Pry Bar
A sturdy pry bar is essential for the leverage needed to detach cabinets from walls and floors. Look for one at least 18 inches long to maximize force. Heat-treated high-carbon steel provides strength without bending.
Work the pry bar carefully behind cabinets to pop them loose. Protect surfaces with old blankets or pads to prevent dents from the pry bar tip.
Hammer
A claw hammer allows pulling out any finishing nails missed during the initial survey. Use the claw inserted under cabinet nails and gently rock the hammer to retract them. The claw’s curved shape grips nails for easy removal.
In a pinch, the hammer’s flat head can also be used to tap a pry bar wedged into place. This helps dislodge stubborn cabinets.
Oscillating Tool
An oscillating or multi-tool provides controlled cutting ability for nail heads, caulk beads, and adhesive. Select a variable-speed model so you can adjust intensity based on the material being cut.
Use the fine-toothed metal cutting blade attachment for safely slicing through nails. The crescent-shaped blade attachment removes old caulk rapidly.
Utility Knife
A sharp utility knife simplifies slicing away old caulk or adhesive sealing cabinets in place. Opt for a knife with break-off blades to keep the cutting edge sharp and thin.
The narrow profile of a utility knife allows precise cutting action in tight spots. Carefully score beads of caulk fully through before prying with a putty knife.
Screwdrivers
It’s essential to have a full set of slotted and Phillips head screwdrivers. This ensures you can remove any type of screw securing metal cabinets or hardware.
Choose screwdrivers with magnetic tips to prevent dropped screws during removal. Multiple handle lengths give reach for screws down low or up high behind cabinets.
Having the right specialty tools makes cabinet removal much less strenuous. Invest in quality implements that will endure the workload without fail.
How to Detach and Remove Cabinet Doors
Detaching the cabinet doors and drawers is one of the first steps in removing metal kitchen cabinets fully. Taking them off provides easier access to the underlying cabinet structure. Follow these tips for smooth door and drawer removal:
Inspect Hinges
Examine how each door is hung before attempting to detach it. Note the location of any visible or hidden hinge screws. This prevents damaging doors during removal.
Some metal cabinet doors utilize simple pin hinges. Others have concealed European-style hinge systems. Identify the style to use the proper removal method.
Remove Visible Hinge Screws
Use a screwdriver to take out any readily accessible hinge screws attaching doors to the cabinet face frames. Collect detached screws in a small container to keep them organized.
On framed cabinets, there are commonly two screws per hinge. Remove both screws on each door’s hinges before attempting to take the door off.
Pry Off Snap-On Hinges
Many metal cabinet doors attach via snap-on style hinges with no visible screws. Carefully pry or twist these hinges off to detach the door.
Protect the door corners with strips of cardboard when prying off snap-on hinges. Take care not to bend or dent the doors in the process.
Keep Track of Detached Parts
As you remove cabinet doors, place the detached doors, hinges, and hardware together in an organized fashion. Stack doors neatly on top of each other to avoid damage.
This prevents mixing up parts from multiple cabinets. Properly labeling doors also ensures putting them back on their original cabinets later if desired.
Check for Obstructions
Test that each door can slide free before fully removing it. Check for any snagged wiring or plumbing that needs disconnecting before the door can come fully loose.
Gently wiggle the door to feel for unseen obstructions before tilting it out. This prevents unintentionally damaging components running through cabinets.
Carefully detaching the doors simplifies access to the main cabinet carcasses. Follow these tips to remove cabinet doors safely and systematically.
How to Remove Built-In Appliances from Cabinets
Many modern kitchens feature appliances like dishwashers, microwaves, or ranges integrated into surrounding cabinetry. Appliances must be detached fully before removing the whole metal cabinet assembly.
Use caution when disconnecting appliances incorporated into metal cabinets you are removing:
Turn Off Electrical Supply
Any appliance run on electricity should have its power switched off at the breaker before removal. This prevents accidental electrocution from live wires during the process.
Unplug any appliances as well. With both breaker and plug disengaged, it’s safe to proceed with appliance removal.
Follow Instructions
Check the appliance’s manual for step-by-step instructions on how to disconnect it. Different models detach in different ways. Following the directions prevents damage.
Note any specialty tools or specific procedures needed for that appliance. Some require releasing mounting brackets or disconnecting venting first.
Detach Mounting Screws
Use a screwdriver to remove any screws fastening the appliance directly into the metal cabinetry around it. Whether on the sides, top, or bottom, all screws must be taken out.
Collect the mounting screws in a container for potential reinstallation later. Making note of screw placements can help with reassembly.
Release from Hookups
Disconnect any water lines, drain pipes, or venting tubes linked to dishwashers, sinks, or ranges before pulling the appliance fully free. Use proper wrenches to loosen connector fittings.
Cap any open pipes to prevent leaks. Bundle any disconnected wiring to route through cabinets safely once the appliance is out.
Check Behind Carefully
Look behind the detached appliance for any hidden screws, especially near the top or sides. Some models have extra corner brackets or extended flanges that may be secured in the back.
Removing all hidden connecting points allows the appliance to detach completely. This prevents damage when pulling the surrounding cabinetry off.
With appliances fully disconnected, metal cabinet removal can proceed safely. Follow appliance-specific directions closely for best results.
How to Cut Through Caulk and Adhesive
Metal kitchen cabinets are commonly sealed into place with caulk and construction adhesives for security and water resistance. These materials must be detached before cabinets can be removed.
Cutting through old caulk and adhesives safely separates cabinets from walls and flooring. Follow these methods:
Slice Caulk with Utility Knife
Use a fresh sharp utility knife to cut any caulk beads sealing cabinets to walls, counters, or each other. Hold the knife at a 45° angle and carefully slice into the caulk fully.
Make a few passes along the length of each caulk bead to ensure cutting fully through to the bottom. This allows prying the cabinets separate after.
Scrape Away Caulk
After slicing a caulk bead’s outer skin, use a putty knife to scrape out the inner caulk material. Hold the putty knife at a low angle and work it behind the cut section of caulk.
Scraping removes the bulk of old caulk rapidly. Take care not to gouge into surrounding surfaces when clearing caulk away.
Remove Adhesive with Oscillating Tool
For stubborn adhesive behind cabinets, use an oscillating tool with a crescent blade. The rapid vibration slices through adhesive neatly without gouging.
Keep the blade flat against adhesive and work slowly side to side. LET adhesive soften with heat from the friction before scraping away any residue.
Clear Areas Thoroughly
Check areas hidden by cabinet trim or valances for any caulk or adhesive you may have missed. Cutting through all sealant is vital for easy removal.
Use a utility knife, putty knife, or oscillating tool to clear any remaining material. A clean break line is needed to prevent cabinet surface damage.
Cutting through old caulk and adhesive provides a smooth release when prying cabinets from floors and walls. Use specialty cutting tools carefully to separate sealants completely.
Locating All Screws Securing Cabinets
Metal kitchen cabinets are secured by a number of screws driven into wall studs and flooring. Finding and removing every screw is crucial before attempting cabinet removal.
Use these tips to locate all hidden screws:
Check Inside Cabinets
Look in the upper corners inside wall cabinet carcasses for screws driven through the back panel. These are commonly