Removing Youngstown metal base cabinets can seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be done efficiently and safely. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to remove Youngstown metal base cabinets yourself.
Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials
Before starting the removal process, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials:
- Safety glasses and work gloves – for protection
- Pry bar – to help loosen the cabinets from the wall
- Hammer – to knock nails out of the wall
- Screwdriver – to remove any screws
- Level – to check that the cabinets are detached from the wall
- Fillers like spackle, putty, or wood filler – for patching holes in the wall
- Sandpaper – for smoothing patched areas
- Paint or stain with brush – to match existing wall color
Make sure the tools are in good condition to prevent accidents or injuries. Having all the supplies ready will make the removal process faster.
Clear Out the Cabinets
Remove everything stored inside the Youngstown cabinets before attempting to take them down. This includes dishes, food items, cookware, etc. Clearing out the contents eliminates the risk of any items dropping or breaking during the removal process.
Place the removed items in boxes and move them out of the way to a safe location. Double check that all cabinet shelves, drawers, and storage areas are fully emptied out.
Disconnect Plumbing and Electrical
If the base cabinets are connected to any plumbing or electrical systems, these need to be disconnected before removal. Turn off the main water supply line and shut off electricity to the kitchen area at the breaker box.
Detach any drain pipes, supply lines, and wiring connected to the bottom cabinets. Cap off open pipes and insulate any exposed wiring. This helps prevent leaks or electrical hazards once the cabinets are detached from the wall.
Detach Cabinets from Wall
With the contents cleared out and utilities disconnected, you can start detaching the cabinets from the wall:
Remove Cabinet Doors and Drawers
Take off all cabinet doors and remove any drawers from cabinet boxes. This allows easier access to remove the entire cabinet body. Set hardware like hinges and drawer glides aside to potential reinstall later.
Remove Mounting Screws
Use a screwdriver to remove any screws going through the cabinet frame into the wall. This includes screws through the cabinet face frame or back panel.
Knock Out Attachment Nails
Use a hammer or pry bar to knock out any nails holding the cabinets to wall studs or paneling. Watch out for any nails through the side panels or upper frame. Knock nails through the cabinet frame so they don’t damage the existing wall.
Loosen from Wall
Insert a pry bar between the cabinet frame and wall to loosen it. Apply force gently to avoid damaging the cabinets. Work your way around the perimeter, prying and wiggling the frame loose.
Lift Cabinets Off
With the cabinet completely detached, lift it off the wall mounts and set it aside. Depending on the size, you may need a second person to help carry larger base cabinet bodies.
Remove Mounting Strips
Examine the vacated cabinet space and look for any leftover mounting strips or cleats. Use a pry bar or hammer to remove any remaining strips or blocks attached to the wall.
Also knock out any leftover nails, screws or fasteners sticking out of the wall. Smoothing the surface prepares the wall for fresh paint or wall covering.
Patch Holes and Clean Up Wall
Filling holes and patching over damages prevents the old cabinet outline from showing once the space is recoated:
- Use fillers like spackle or putty to patch over holes from nails and screws. Let filler dry completely before sanding smooth.
- Sand patched areas with fine grit sandpaper until flush with wall surface.
- Clean away any grease, dirt or debris on the emptied cabinet space.
- Spot paint with matching color to cover any stubbon nail holes or markings. Allow paint to dry fully before moving on.
The wall space should now have a fresh face ready for new cabinets or alternate uses.
Disassemble and Dispose of Old Cabinets
With the cabinets removed from the wall, the last step is to take them apart and dispose of properly:
- Remove any remaining hardware like hinges or drawer glides to reuse or throw away.
- Take cabinet frames apart if necessary by removing screws, nails or adhesives.
- Break down large cabinet sections to make lighter pieces for transport.
- Load cabinets into a truck or haul away to the dumpster. Most metal cabinets can go right into a scrap metal recycling bin.
- Alternative disposal options include selling cabinets for reuse or donating to Habitat for Humanity.
It’s helpful to break down the cabinet pieces into more manageable sizes for disposal or recycling. Now you have an open space to begin new kitchen plans!
Frequently Asked Questions About Removing Youngstown Metal Base Cabinets
What tools do I need to remove metal base cabinets?
You will need a pry bar, hammer, screwdriver, safety glasses, work gloves, level, fillers, and sandpaper. Power tools like an oscillating multi tool can also help but are not essential.
How do I detach the cabinets without damaging walls?
Work slowly and gently when prying cabinets off the wall. Use fillers like spackle or wood putty to patch any nail holes, gouges or scratches on the wall surface after removing.
Should I salvage or reuse old Youngstown cabinets?
You may be able to sell, donate or reuse Youngstown cabinets in good condition. But heavily damaged or outdated cabinets are better off being recycled or disposed of.
Can I remove cabinets myself or do I need a contractor?
With time and care, you can likely remove kitchen cabinets yourself, especially with a helper. But for intricate built-ins or complex connections, a contractor may be safer.
What precautions should I take when removing metal cabinets?
Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect from sharp metal edges. Disconnect plumbing and electrical connections first. Go slowly when prying off cabinets to avoid wall or cabinet damages.
Final Tips
- Read installation guides in reverse order to help with safe removal
- Label parts as you disassemble so reinstallation is easier
- Watch for sharp points or exposed nails to prevent injuries
- Dispose of old cabinets properly according to local regulations
- Hire a professional if the project seems too complex
Removing Youngstown metal kitchen cabinets takes time and physical effort, but following these steps carefully allows you to open up space for a new kitchen design. Just take all necessary safety precautions and disposal measures. Soon you will have a fresh blank canvas to create your dream kitchen layout.