Updating a home doesn’t need to take a lot of work or expense. Many homeowners give their bathroom a new look by replacing the bathroom vanity. This can be done as a DIY or you can hire someone to do it for you. Wondering how to remove a bathroom vanity? You will need to gather the supplies and follow the five steps to remove a bathroom vanity efficiently.
Before you begin, it’s important to gather all the necessary equipment and materials.
You will need:
Steps to Remove A Bathroom Vanity
There are 5 steps to removing a bathroom vanity. Let’s take a look.
1. Turn Off The Water and Disconnect the Water Lines
Start by turning off the water supply to the vanity. This can usually be done by shutting off the valves located under the sink. Then, disconnect the water lines from the faucet using an adjustable wrench or channel-lock pliers.
2. Remove the Drain Pipe
Remove the drain pipe by loosening the slip nut and connecting it to the bottom of the sink. Use a bucket or rag to catch any water that may spill out.
3. If There is a Mirror, Remove It Next
It is not required to remove the mirror but it is a good idea so it doesn’t accidentally break. To do this, use a flat pry bar to remove it from the wall. Do this very carefully. If it is screwed into the wall, use a screwdriver to loosen the screws and remove the mirror. Put it somewhere safe.
4. Remove the Vanity
If there is a backsplash attached to the vanity, carefully remove it using a utility knife and flat pry bar. Then, take out the vanity countertop by removing any screws or brackets holding it in place. Use a screw gun if necessary. Next, detach the vanity cabinet from the wall. Look for screws or nails securing it and remove them as needed.
Insert a wood block between the floor and the bottom of the vanity. Tap it gently with a hammer to loosen any adhesive or caulking holding it in place. Then, use a putty knife or flat pry bar to carefully lift the vanity off the floor. Be cautious not to damage the wall or flooring during this step. Once the vanity is removed, clean the area and prepare it for installation of a new vanity or other storage options.
5. Prepare the Area to Put in the New Vanity
After you take the old vanity out, you will want to get the area ready to install your new vanity. There may be caulk left on the walls so using a putty knife or scraper can remove this. However, if you measured the new vanity and it is the same size as the one you removed, you can leave the caulk on the walls if you want to. This can be a time saver. However, if it is shorter or smaller, you will need to cover up any issues.
Next, if there are any nail holes, you will need to patch those and also paint the rest of the wall so it matches. If there is flooring missing and noticeable, you will want to patch the exposed areas before adding the new vanity. This will be the last step before you add your new vanity.
Other Recommended Maintenance
Now that you know about removing a vanity in your bathroom, let’s take a look at some other areas of recommended maintenance.
One of those is cleaning calcium buildup on a faucet. To do this, you can use non-toxic methods such as white vinegar, or install a water softener to remove the buildup.
Another is painting a bathroom ceiling. After you have taken out the vanity, you may notice that your ceiling paint needs updating. Following the paint manufacturer’s instructions is key.
Lastly, you may be wondering why your shower drain smells. It can be hair and soap scum buildup as they cause mold. Also, it could be the P trap is dirty or missing so trying a few things to narrow it down is a good idea.
When Do I Call a Professional
While removing a bathroom vanity can often be done as a DIY project, there are certain situations when it’s best to call a professional. One of those is if you’re unsure about disconnecting plumbing lines or shutting off the water supply, it’s safer to seek professional help.
Another is if the vanity is attached to the wall with complicated mounting systems or if there are structural concerns, a professional can handle it more efficiently. Lastly, if you’re planning on installing a new vanity or making significant changes to the plumbing layout, consulting a professional is advisable.
Conclusion
Removing a bathroom vanity can be a straightforward task if you have the right tools and follow the necessary steps. However, if you encounter any difficulties or feel uncertain about the process, don’t hesitate to call a professional for assistance. Also, think about a home inspection while you are at it as you never know what else needs replacing in the home. Reach out to Alpha building inspections for a full home inspection in Merrimack, New Hampshire, and surrounding areas.
