Introduction
Metal dividers are commonly installed in kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, and other built-in cabinetry to help organize items and maximize storage space. However, there are times when you may want to remove these dividers to change the layout or create a more open storage design. Removing metal cabinet dividers is possible as a DIY project, but it requires patience, the proper tools, and care not to damage the cabinets in the process.
In this comprehensive guide, we will walk through the complete process of how to remove metal dividers from cabinets safely and effectively. We will cover the following topics in detail:
- Reasons for Removing Cabinet Dividers
- Cabinet Construction Basics
- Tools and Materials Needed
- Preparing for Removal
- Techniques for Removing Dividers
- Cleaning Up and Restoring Cabinets
- Alternatives to Removing Dividers
- FAQs About Removing Cabinet Dividers
By the end of this guide, you will feel confident in tackling this project yourself and saving the cost of professional assistance. Let’s get started!
Reasons for Removing Cabinet Dividers
There are several reasons you may want to remove the original metal dividers from your cabinets:
Changing Cabinet Layout
Removing dividers allows you to fully customize and change the interior configuration of your cabinets. You can adjust shelf placement, create wider openings for storing large items, or make other design changes.
Creating More Open Storage
Some people prefer the clean, unobstructed look of open cabinets without dividers. This provides easier access and a less cluttered appearance.
Updating Style
Metal dividers with visible seams can look dated. Removing them allows for a more streamlined, modern style.
Allowing for Larger Items
Eliminating dividers may allow you to store larger cookware, serving platters, or appliances that previously didn’t fit.
Salvaging Used Cabinets
Older cabinets with paint or rust buildup on dividers can be restored by removing and replacing them.
Matching Existing Cabinets
If combining new and used cabinetry, you may need to remove dividers from the used set to match the layout and style of your existing cabinets.
Repurposing Cabinets
Cabinets repurposed from the kitchen to other uses may not require the original dividers. Removing them adapts the cabinets to new functions.
As you can see, the reasons for removing the metal dividers in your cabinets are varied. If your goal is updating aesthetics, adjusting storage, or repurposing cabinets, this project may be right for your needs.
Cabinet Construction Basics
Before we dive into the removal process, let’s quickly review some cabinet construction basics so you understand how dividers are typically installed.
Most modern kitchen cabinets have box-shaped cabinet cases constructed from plywood or engineered wood. The back, bottom, sides, top, and shelves are secured together with nails, screws, glue, and other fasteners.
Metal divider panels are designed to slide into grooved channels routed into the cabinet sides, back, and shelves. They have a hooked edge that fits into the groove. The dividers are held in place by friction and are not normally screwed or nailed.
Knowing how your particular cabinets are assembled will help guide the removal process. Examining the interior construction and hardware before starting will allow you to plan the safest method.
Pro tip: If possible, remove all shelving to get a clear look at the side grooves and cabinet back before attempting to remove dividers.
Tools and Materials Needed
Removing metal dividers requires only a few simple tools and materials:
Tools
- Tape measure
- Level
- Phillips and flathead screwdrivers
- Pliers
- Pry bar
- Clamps
- Utility knife
- Drill with bits
- Stud finder
- Eye protection, work gloves, and dust mask
Materials
- Painter’s tape
- Shop towels or drop cloths
- Wood filler or putty
- Touch-up paint
- New shelf pegs or standards (if reconfiguring layout)
These basic items should be all you need for a smooth divider removal process. Having them prepared and on hand will allow you to work safely and efficiently.
Preparing for Removal
Completing prep work before you start prying out dividers will protect both you and your cabinets during the removal process:
1. Empty Cabinets
Remove everything stored on the shelves and at the bottom of the cabinets. This provides an unobstructed workspace and eliminates the risk of items falling.
2. Detach Doors and Drawers
Removing doors and drawers gets them out of your way and prevents damage. Label pieces to keep hardware matched up for easy reinstallation.
3. Protect Surrounding Surfaces
Use painter’s tape and drop cloths to cover countertops, floors, and nearby walls. This safeguards finishes from tool marks and flying debris.
4. Assess Divider Installation
Examine how the dividers are installed without cabinets contents in the way. Note whether they are snugly friction fit or also screwed into shelves or the cabinet back. This informs how much force will be needed to pry them out.
5. Have Replacement Parts Ready
If reconfiguring your layout, have any new shelf standards, supports, or hardware ready to install new shelf positions once dividers are removed.
Taking these preparatory steps allows you to safely detach the dividers with as little disruption or damage as possible.
Techniques for Removing Dividers
With prep work complete, it’s time to tackle removing the metal dividers. Here are some techniques and tips to help the process go smoothly:
Prying Out Friction-Fit Dividers
Many metal dividers are held by friction only. In this case:
- Wearing gloves, insert a pry bar into the groove behind the divider.
- Slowly apply force to lever and pop the divider out of the channel. Take care not to bend or warp the divider.
- Move down the divider, repeating the prying motion to walk it free from the groove.
- Repeat for any remaining dividers, being careful not to damage cabinet sides.
Removing Screwed-In Dividers
If your dividers are secured with screws into shelves or cabinet sides:
- Locate all screw heads. You may need to remove shelf pegs or brackets to access them.
- Set a drill to reverse and use a bit to back screws out a few turns.
- Finish unscrewing them by hand using a screwdriver.
- With screws removed, slide dividers up and out of channels.
Cutting Seized Dividers
Over time, paint, grime, or rust may seal dividers permanently into channels. If they won’t pry or slide free:
- Remove shelves to access full divider length.
- Using a utility knife, carefully score the metal where it enters the groove.
- Reinsert pry bar into groove and tap it with a hammer to break divider free.
- Rotate and repeat cutting/prying motion until divider comes loose.
Patching Holes and Grooves
Once dividers are out, inspect sides and back for any holes, fastener marks, or irregular groove dimensions.
Fill holes and smooth grooves using wood filler, patch epoxy, or spackling. Sand smooth when dry.
Matching touch-up paint can cover any flaws so interiors look fresh and uniform.
Pro Tip: Consider installing new lining such as beadboard or wood veneer to conceal any cabinet damage or discoloration.
Cleaning Up and Restoring Cabinets
With the stubborn dividers removed, a few finishing touches will get your cabinets looking revitalized:
- Wipe down interiors to remove dust, debris, or grime that accumulated behind dividers.
- Replace any shelf pegs, standards, or supports in desired new positions. Test fit shelves to ensure they are level and properly supported.
- Touch up cabinet interiors and fronts with a fresh coat of paint if needed.
- Reinstall doors, drawers, and hardware once paint is dry. Ensure pieces are aligned and functioning properly.
- Remove painter’s tape and drop cloths. Clean any adhesive residue with household cleaner.
- Move stored items back into cabinets. Enjoy your refreshed layout and cleaner look!
Taking time for cleanup and restoration prevents damage and gives your kitchen a like-new appearance again.
Alternatives to Removing Dividers
If you decide that fully removing your cabinet dividers is unnecessary or too big of a project, here are a couple alternative options:
Cutting Down Dividers
Rather than fully removing panels, simply cut them down to the desired length using a hacksaw. Leave partial sections in place rather than fully clearing out compartments.
Replacing With New Dividers
Old worn or unattractive dividers can be replaced with new matching or upgraded versions. Visit a hardware store or cabinet supplier to purchase replacement divider kits.
Adding Drawers
Consider adding drawer stacks or a bank of roll-out drawers in place of fixed shelving. This allows access to the full compartment space when needed.
Glass Shelving
Glass shelves with metal supports give the appearance of open, divider-free cabinets but still provide intermediate shelves.
Carefully consider if simpler solutions like these could work rather than taking on the full divider removal process.
FAQs About Removing Cabinet Dividers
Let’s wrap up with answers to some frequently asked questions about removing metal dividers:
Are cabinet dividers required?
Dividers are not strictly necessary. They can be left out of cabinetry designs entirely if desired. However, they do maximize storage space efficiently.
Will my cabinets be sturdy without dividers?
Properly constructed cabinets will remain sturdy once dividers are removed as long as shelving is also well supported.
Do I need professional help for this project?
In most cases, divider removal is straightforward enough for a dedicated DIYer to tackle. Seek contractor help if your cabinets are complicated or prove difficult.
Can I reuse old dividers if I want to put some back later?
Absolutely. Carefully pry out and retain your old dividers. Refinishing or spray painting them makes them look brand new again.
What’s the easiest method for removal?
For friction-fit dividers, carefully prying out using a flat bar provides the safest, least invasive method.
And there you have it – the complete guide to successfully removing those confining metal dividers from your kitchen or bathroom cabinets! With the right approach and tools, you can open up your storage space and give your cabinets an updated, custom look. Good luck!