how remove kitchen cabinets
Jun 22, 2025
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Based on the search results, here's a streamlined guide to removing kitchen cabinets safely and efficiently, whether you're tackling upper (wall) cabinets or base (lower) cabinets. Follow these steps to avoid damage or injury:
⚠️ Phase 1: Prep Work (Essential Safety & Setup)
Clear cabinets:
Remove all contents, shelves, drawers, and doors to reduce weight .
Disconnect utilities:
Turn off power at the circuit breaker for any under-cabinet lighting or appliances . Verify wires are dead with a voltage detector .
Protect the area:
Cover floors/countertops with drop cloths; remove nearby appliances if possible .
Gather tools:
Electric drill/driver, Phillips screwdriver, pry bar, hammer, gloves, and safety goggles .
🔨 Phase 2: Removing Upper Cabinets (Wall-Mounted)
Detach adjacent cabinets:
Unscrew interior side screws (2–3 per cabinet) connecting cabinets to each other .
Locate wall screws:
Top screws: Inside the cabinet or along the top edge (if flush with ceiling).
Bottom screws: On the underside or inside near the base .
Unscrew strategically:
Remove top screws first, then side screws. Leave one middle screw until last .
Support and remove:
Have a helper hold the cabinet while removing the final screw. Lift downward to detach .
⚙️ Phase 3: Removing Base Cabinets (Lower Units)
Unscrew side connections:
Remove interior screws linking adjacent cabinets .
Detach from wall:
Locate screws at the back of the cabinet securing it to the wall. Unscrew with a drill .
Check for toe-kick plates:
Avoid damaging these; unscrew separately if needed .
Lift out:
With a helper, tilt and lift the cabinet onto a dolly or towels for transport .
🛠️ Troubleshooting Stuck Cabinets
Adhesive/caulk: Use a putty knife to gently pry cabinets from walls .
Hidden fasteners: Check for nails or brackets behind trim/molding.
Heavy units: Remove doors/drawers first to reduce weight .
💡 Key Tips for Success
Teamwork: Never remove cabinets alone-weight makes them unstable .
Label parts: Tag doors, hinges, and shelves for easy reassembly or disposal .
Inspect for damage: If cabinets warp or crack during removal, replacement may be safer than reuse .
✨ Pro Tip: For stubborn cabinets, slide a pry bar behind the unit and gently leverage it away from the wall-but protect drywall with a wood block .
Time Estimate: Allow 2–4 hours for a small kitchen. Prioritize safety over speed, especially with electrical components . If cabinets are salvageable, store on padded surfaces to avoid scratches during transit .