How To Remove A Bathroom Vanity
One of the most dramatic improvements you can make to a bathroom is also one of the simplest DIY projects. Replacing a bathroom vanity cabinet, countertop, sink, and faucet can amount to a big bathroom update. Today's vanities come in a range of materials, including quartz and solid surface, and many are reasonable.
Before you can install a new vanity, you must first remove the old one. This includes disconnecting the faucet water supply lines and drain assembly. However, if you do it one step at a time, the project will be simple. (The Home Digs, 2021)
ProTip Takeaway. Disconnect the sink and countertop from the vanity before cutting the vanity cabinet into parts if this becomes required.
Removing A Bathroom Vanity
Equipment and Tools You'll Need
- Bucket
- Adjustable wrench
- Channel-lock pliers
- Rag
- Tongue and groove pliers
- Utility knife
- Flat pry bar
- Putty knife
- Screw gun
- Woodblock
- Rag
Step 1: Turn off the water
Turn off the water first because you'll need to unplug some piping. There is normally a valve that only allows water to flow to the vanity unit. In some circumstances, there is just one valve for hot and cold water, but in others, there are two.
Turn off the water at the shutoff valves, if you can't find a valve under your bathroom sink. This is normally close to where the main water line enters the house. It's usually found under your kitchen sink or in a garage.
Turn the shutoff valves anticlockwise as far as it will go to stop the water from flowing wherever it is. There will be some remaining water in the pipes. Open the faucets and wait for the water to drain. This will also relieve the system's pressure.
After you've turned off the water, you'll need to disconnect the tubes that connect the faucets to the valves. (Sunrise Specialty, 2021)
ProTip Takeaway. You may have trouble remembering which direction to move shutoff valves, screws, or nuts. Simply tighten them up by turning clockwise to the right.
Step 2: Disconnect the water supply tubes
Begin by placing a bucket beneath the valves to collect any water that leaks out. You'll also need to look for the nut on the supply tube. Loosen the adjustable wrench using your hand. Disconnect the supply tubes from the valve by slipping it off the end when it's free enough.
If you've utilized the sink's shutoff valve, now is the time to double-check that it's working properly. If there is still water dripping from the valve, turn it off at the mains.
ProTip Takeaway. When replacing a sink or faucet, it's also a good opportunity to replace the fixture shutdown valves and flexible supply tubes. When installing a new vanity and bathroom sink, it's preferable not to reuse old parts. This is because these components have a limited lifespan and may need to be replaced soon anyhow.
Step 3: Remove the Drain P-Trap
The P-trap is a curved pipe that attaches to the tailpiece's end. To remove it you'll need to loosen the nuts that connect the trap's mouth to the tailpiece. You can usually do this by hand, but tongue and groove pliers may be required. Then slide the trap down and swivel it away.
To free the trap, loosen the nut on the other end of the trap that connects it to the drain inlet in the wall and pull it toward you. You'll find it's full of water, so be careful. Pour the water into a bucket or empty the trap outside. (Hunker, 2021)
ProTip Takeaway. Place a rag at the end of the pipe leading to the wall once the p-trap has been removed. This will prevent any unpleasant waste gases from entering your bathroom from the sewer.
Step 4: Remove the Mirror from the Wall
If desired, remove the vanity mirror. It is easier when the mirror rests on the vanity countertop or backsplash. This is an excellent option because it's simple to break the mirror when removing the cabinet. If the mirror is bonded to the wall, though, it's preferable to leave it there unless you plan to replace it.
Step 5: Cut The Caulk Joints
Cut through any caulk where the vanity top meets the wall and along all borders between the countertop and the cabinet. Use a sharp utility knife to cut through as it makes work much easier. You will also need to check where the cabinet meets the wall and cut through any caulk.
Step 6: Remove the Vanity Top
You'll have to reach into the drawer cavities with a screwdriver to remove some of the screws that hold the top to the cabinet. If you can't find any screws or other fasteners, the top is most likely bonded to the cabinet with caulking or another sealer. This means it may be glued even if screws are present.
Tap a putty knife between the countertop and the cabinet frame with a hammer to break the sealant bond.
After you've worked your way around the cabinet, pry the top up with a pry bar and lift it off with an assistant. If you haven't already, flip it over and lay it face down on the cabinet, with the faucet hanging over the edge. This way you can remove the bathroom sink and faucet with ease. (The Spruce, 2021)
Step 7: Remove the Vanity Cabinet
Examine the inside of the cabinet to see how and what mounts the vanity to the wall. Most are secured with a few screws driven through a mounting strip and into studs. It's also feasible that the cabinet will be fastened to the floor with screws or nails driven through the cabinet's bottom nailing blocks. Use a drill or a screwdriver to remove all screws.
If nails hold the vanity to the wall, use a flat pry bar to slowly remove it away from the wall. Placing a wood block between the pry bar and the wall and levering against it is critical to avoid damaging the wall.
Remove the cabinet from the wall. If the cabinet has a rear panel with holes for the plumbing valves, take care not to damage (or turn on) the valves when moving them. (Budget Dumpster, 2019)
Step 8: Finish the project
Remove any residual caulk from the wall with a putty knife or scraper. Plan to patch and paint the wall and/or floor before installing the new vanity. That is if the new cabinet is smaller or shorter than the old one.
Are You Ready To Remove your Bathroom Vanity?
That's all there is to it when it comes to removing a bathroom vanity! We hope you've found our guide useful and that it has inspired you to try it out for yourself or involve a professional. If you need a professional to do the job, contact Smart remodeling LLC based in Houston, Texas.
Smart Remodeling LLC is always looking out for your best interests. Our team of professionals is ready to help you remove your bathroom vanity and find the correct style as well. For great bathroom vanity removal and installation in Houston at competitive pricing, call us today.