How to remove the mirror from the cabinet door?

Sometimes there are times when old interior items no longer fit into the new design of the room or you are just tired. This also applies to mirrors. Like nothing else, they are the top element of the decor, which can not only give a bright accent, but also significantly spoil it. If the mirror is attached to special reusable fasteners, then in this case you can dismantle it without problems. Well, what to do when it is fixed with “liquid nails” or special glue? Now we will tell you how to remove the mirror from the door from the cabinet or other surface carefully, without breaking it and not injuring ourselves.

to contents ↑

Features of dismantling. Mirror Replacement

Depending on the type of surface, the fasteners of these decorative elements are produced on “liquid nails”, suction cups, glue, double-sided tape, brackets and screws. Part of such fasteners during dismantling does not cause problems, since the screws can be unscrewed, peeled off the suction cups and bent staples.

It is much more difficult when it is “tightly” fixed to the surface with the help of special glue or “liquid nails”. Therefore, in order to safely remove and replace the glued mirror from the cabinet door, the following rules should be followed:

• Before dismantling, it is necessary to remove those elements on which it is fixed, for example, a cabinet door or a frame. This is due to the fact that in the horizontal plane this procedure is much easier and more convenient than in the vertical.

Important! Due to the use of brute force, the mirror, unfortunately, after dismantling most often becomes already unsuitable for further use.

• So that at the moment of impact the fragments do not scatter around, you should use tape.
• Another option is to use solvents such as acetone, gasoline or white spirit.

Important! If you have preserved packaging from glue or “liquid nails”, you can, with the help of a specialist in composition, choose the solvent that will be most effective.

• If the mirror is damaged, then do not dismantle it yourself, as this is unsafe. In this case, it is better to entrust the matter to specialists.

to contents ↑

The main ways to remove the mirror at home

We bring to your attention several ways to remove a mirror from a cabinet or other surface that are acceptable at home.

Method number 1

For this dismantling method, you will need a metal ruler and a rubber mallet. The sequence of actions is as follows:

• First you should sharpen the ruler. To do this, you need to process its narrow edge with sandpaper.
• Carefully insert the sharpened edge of the ruler into the space between the mirror and the surface.
• With soft movements, tap on the end. Thus, you will deepen the line.

Important! In order for the dismantling process to take place more accurately, you should make smooth, not sharp movements with a ruler.

• The action described in paragraph 3 should be repeated constantly, thus moving to the center and the other edge of the surface.

Important! In order to prevent the mirror from breaking and splitting during removal, it is not recommended to raise the edge of the ruler high.

Method number 2

For this method, you will need a cutting wire or wire to remove the windshield.

Important! Such a wire is made of high-strength braided steel, which is widely used for the repair of automotive windows. Accordingly, you can purchase it at any auto parts store.

Operating procedure:

• The front side of the mirror should be glued with packing tape or tape. Thus, you will avoid the occurrence of a large number of fragments.

Important! If in the future you will still use this decor element, then the remnants of the film can be removed with a solvent.

• Pull the cutting wire around the corner of the mirror. Move it with smooth movements, while trying to press more against the surface of the wall or cabinet door.
• After the wire is stretched out behind the mirror, it should be pulled to the opposite corner.

Important! During this operation, the wire will cut through the glue on which the mirror is fixed, therefore, so that it does not fall at the end, one more person should be called for help.

• With gentle movements, without applying force, remove it from the wall.

Method number 3

This method is suitable for mirrors that are attached to the surface of a drywall wall. In addition to being safe, it takes quite a bit of time.

For this you will need:

• Cutting wire;
• Drywall saw;
• Duct tape;
• Garden hose.

How to remove the mirror from the cabinet door:

• With the help of a saw, it is necessary to cut a piece on which a mirror is fixed.

Important! Try to keep the trimmed edges straight, as this will make it easier for you to repair or rebuild drywall walls.

• If you plan to use this decorative element again, you can clean it with water. To do this, lay face down and moisten well. Leave for a while. Using a cutting wire, remove the remnants of drywall and glue.

to contents ↑

How to remove a mirror from a sliding wardrobe?

For this process, you will need a large screwdriver and a chisel:

• Tape the front side with tape.
• Place a screwdriver or chisel under the edge, gently squeeze.

Important! It should be borne in mind that in this case, the mirror is likely to burst and will already be unusable.

• When dismantling is finished, it is best to put the fragments in a bag, and clean the cabinet surface from the remnants of “liquid nails” or glue with a solvent.

to contents ↑

Safety regulations

Dismantling the mirror is a rather unsafe operation, respectively - it is better to contact specialists to carry it out. But if you decide to do it yourself, then you must adhere to the following safety rules during this process:

• During operation, you must protect yourself. Clothing should completely cover your body, including hands and eyes.
• This procedure should not be carried out indoors, but in an open area.
• Keep children away.
• If the installation was carried out in a living room, then a thorough cleaning should be carried out.
• If you feel a slight tingling sensation in your hands, you should examine them for fragments.

to contents ↑

Stock footage

Dismantling a mirror from a cabinet or other surface is a rather laborious and unsafe process. Therefore, in order to do this yourself at home, you should strictly adhere to the above rules and recommendations. If you observe them and do everything carefully, you can remove the mirror in a short time safely and with the least damage to the surface of the cabinet or wall.