How to Remove Cabinets
If your cabinets are still in a good shape and are being removed for cosmetic reasons, consider donating them to local charities. Oftentimes charities associated with construction sell used materials to needy homeowners. Find out the policy of the charities in your area and if they accept these kinds of donations. If they do, make sure to remove the cabinets as carefully as possible.
Always begin with the base cabinets and never the wall cabinets. The wall cabinets will be harder to remove and require support during the removal. It is easier to do this if the base cabinets are not in the way.
To begin removing a base cabinet, remove any flooring that is attached to the kick space of the cabinet. Also disconnect any pipes that will interfere with the removal of the cabinet. It is important to remember to shut off the valve before attempting this. Be absolutely sure that gas and water lines are properly shut off before attempting this step. If you do not know how to do this, call a professional.
Also look for and remove any cosmetic items such as molding or decorative tile that will interfere with the removal of your cabinetry. Even if you plan on reusing these items, it is important to remove them so they will not accidentally be damaged.
Most base cabinets are attached to the wall with screws or nails through a nailing strip. These screws should go directly into the stud behind the wall, so it might be helpful to note their location if you will be reinstalling cabinets. Remove the screws or nails from the nailing strip.
Then look for screws or nails attaching the cabinet to other cabinets or the floor. Remove screws that attach the unit to the floor, but try to remove the cabinets intact if they are attached to one another. This technique could save labor. If it is not possible, remove these screws to remove the cabinets as well.
With the base cabinets removed, you can now remove the wall cabinets as needed. It is always good to have one or two helpers for this step to hold the unit into place while you remove it.
A wall cabinet should be attached to the studs in the walls by a nailing strip or into the ceiling, or both. If the unit is attached with screws, ask someone to hold the unit while you remove them. If the cabinet is attached with nails, you must use a pry bar to remove the cabinet. Have someone hold the cabinet while attempting this.
By removing the cabinets properly, you preserve the integrity of the studs and wallboard underneath for further use. If the cabinet is not coming off using a minimum of force, look for nailing strips or extra screws you may have missed. Do not attempt to rock the cabinet to remove it unless it is completely attached with nails. Overzealous homeowners have attempted this just to damage the partition wall.
If you plan on using a contractor for most of the work in your home, have the workers remove your cabinetry as well. It is very seldom that you would save much by doing only this part yourself. Also, if you are uncomfortable using tools, or do not have some people to help with the removal, consider calling a professional to do the work.
