Removing an existing wardrobe can be a great way to open up your space and make room for a new wardrobe or other cabinetry. However, the process can be more complicated than you might think, especially if the wardrobe is an existing built-in wardrobe that is attached to the wall or floor. In this post, we’ll go over some tips for ripping out an existing wardrobe and preparing the space for a Foxy new one!
Removing an existing wardrobe
1. Assess the situation
Before you start ripping out your old wardrobe, it’s important to assess the situation and determine what type of installation you’re dealing with. Is the wardrobe freestanding, or is it attached to the wall or floor? Is it a structural element of the room, such as a load-bearing wall? These factors will impact how easy or difficult it is to remove the wardrobe, as well as what measures you’ll need to take to prepare the space for a new one. You may also want to leave any architraves depending on your new built in wardrobe, making sure not to remove too much is also important!
2. Removing a built in wardrobe
If the wardrobe is a built-in that is attached to the wall or floor, you may need to do some demolition work to remove it. This could involve removing gyprock or plaster around the wardrobe, cutting through nails or screws, or using a reciprocating saw to cut through the wardrobe itself. It’s important to take your time with this process and be careful not to damage any surrounding areas.
When removing a built-in wardrobe, it’s also important to consider whether it’s a structural element of the room. If the wardrobe is a load-bearing wall, removing it could compromise the integrity of the structure, we don’t want anyone’s upstairs to start falling down! In this case, you’ll need to consult with a structural engineer or builder to determine the best course of action.
3. Patching and painting
Once the wardrobe is removed, you’ll likely be left with some holes or gaps in the wall or floor. Depending on the extent of the damage, you may need to patch these areas before installing a new wardrobe. This could involve filling in holes with spack-filler or joint compound, or using wood filler to repair any damaged areas in the floor.
After patching the walls and surrounds, you’ll also need to paint the area to match the surrounding walls or floor. This will help to create a seamless transition between the old and new elements of the room. If you don’t feel like painting it is possible to get backing on your wardrobe, as well as flooring.