Getting rid of old metal cabinets and desks can feel like a daunting task. However, with some strategic planning and elbow grease, it is possible to remove these bulky items from your home without too much hassle. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to get rid of old metal cabinets and desks.
Assess the Condition
First, take a close look at the metal cabinets and desk. Check for any damage, rust, or other wear and tear. If they are in relatively good shape, consider the following options:
- Sell them. Metal cabinets and desks in good condition may be worth money to the right buyer. Post them on classifieds sites or apps like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or OfferUp. Be sure to take quality photos and accurately describe any flaws.
- Donate them. Charities like Habitat for Humanity and Goodwill often accept used metal furniture in good condition. Be sure to call ahead to check requirements and scheduling for pick-up.
- Repurpose them. With some creativity, you may be able to give your metal cabinets or desk new life. For example, a cabinet could become a potting bench or the base for a DIY project.
If the pieces are damaged beyond repair, it’s best to dispose of them properly.
Prepare the Items for Removal
Once you’ve decided how to get rid of the metal furniture, prep the pieces so they will be easy to transport. This may include:
- Emptying out the cabinets or desk drawers completely. Discard any trash and donate or keep any still-useful contents.
- Detaching any parts that can be removed, like cabinet doors or desk drawers. This will lighten the load for transport.
- Using a vacuum or brush to clean out any dust, dirt, or cobwebs inside cabinets. This prevents making a mess when moving them.
-Measuring dimensions and doorways to determine the best route and process for removing them. You want to avoid getting pieces irretrievably stuck mid-move!
Enlist Help
Recruit some strong helpers to assist with the physical relocation – metal furniture is heavy! If hiring professional movers, get quotes from at least 3 companies and make sure they have experience with used furniture removal.
Some other options for assistance include:
- Friends or family members – provide food and refreshments to sweeten the deal!
- Neighbors – those you’re on good terms with may be willing to lend a hand.
- Students from local high schools or colleges looking to earn extra money.
Whoever helps out, make sure to have plenty of moving supplies like dollies, ramps, blankets, and straps on hand.
Transport and Relocate the Items
This is the time for careful coordination and heavy lifting. Here are some tips to keep the removal safe and streamlined:
- Allow ample room to maneuver pieces through tight spaces like doorways. Having someone “spot” on the other side is helpful.
- For extremely heavy cabinets, consider removing the doors first to reduce weight. Just be sure to keep hardware!
- When lifting, always bend at the knees with a straight back. Avoid twisting movements.
- For stairs, position strong helpers at both the top and bottom to stand the piece upright and control its descent.
- Use ramps or boards to smoothly cross any big gaps, like to/from a truck bed.
- Pad corners and fragile spots with blankets or towels to prevent dings and dents.
- Secure pieces with straps during transport so they don’t slide around.
Clean Up and Celebrate!
Once the metal furniture has been safely relocated, do a quick sweep of both pickup and dropoff locations to collect any leftover fasteners, hardware, dust, etc. Reattach any doors or drawers removed for transport.
Finally, reward yourself and any helpers for a moving job well done! Order a pizza, enjoy some cold drinks, and congratulate each other on getting those heavy metal pieces out the door. You deserve it after all that work.
Removing old metal furniture takes planning, patience and manpower. But with the right approach and help, you can clear out those obsolete metal cabinets and desks to make room for something new!
Frequently Asked Questions About Removing Metal Furniture
How much should I expect to pay for professional removal?
Costs vary, but expect to pay $100-$300 for professional movers to haul away a few medium-large pieces of metal furniture. Get quotes from at least 3 companies.
What if I can’t find anyone to take my old metal furniture?
Check for metal recycling centers in your area that may purchase items by the pound. Or you can request a bulk pickup from your local waste management company (fees may apply).
Is it better to disassemble cabinets before moving them?
In some cases yes, removing doors and/or drawers can lighten the load and make it easier to maneuver pieces, just be sure to keep the hardware! But disassembly is not always necessary if you have enough help.
What’s the easiest way to carry heavy cabinets and desks?
Using rolling dollies designed for furniture makes transporting easier on the back. Renting an appliance dolly is another option. For stairs, position helpers at both top and bottom.
Can I donate metal furniture that has some rust or damage?
Possibly, but call the charity first to see if they accept imperfect items. Minor rust or dents may not be an issue, but extensive damage or safety/function concerns typically rule out donation.
How can I find interested buyers for my used metal furniture?
Post on classifieds sites like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace. Include key details on type, condition, dimensions and photos. You can also try advertising in secondhand stores or your local paper.
What precautions should I take when removing metal cabinets and desks?
Carefully measure doorways and stairwells to avoid getting pieces irretrievably stuck. Pad corners to prevent dings. Use dollies, ramps and help to avoid injury from heavy lifting. Secure items with straps during transport.
Conclusion
Getting rid of old metal cabinets and desks requires some heavy lifting both literally and figuratively. But take time to assess their condition, enlist help, use proper equipment, and take safety precautions. Then you can successfully clear out that obsolete metal furniture without too much hassle. Just be sure to reward yourself afterwards – you earned it! With the space clear, you’ll enjoy the freedom to redecorate with some fresh, new furniture pieces.