Yep, we’re finally getting around to the dining room wainscoting project and we’re starting with a post on how to remove trim. There is quite a lot to do with this one, but we’re happy to finally get to it. We’ve got a full weekend of home projects ahead of us for a change and I can’t wait to get cracking!
Here’s a reminder of the general to-do list for the wainscoting:
1. Remove trim (in progress)
2. Decide on layout and sketch on wall (post coming)
3. Obligatory table saw post
4. Move any outlets and add additional one (in progress)
5. Build router table
6. Install stiles and rails
7. Make and install MDF panels
8. Paint
We added Build a Workbench to that list as well.
Last week I pulled a permit from my local township to cover the minor electrical work. I’ll be adding that extra outlet this weekend. It should be a simple task, but you never know. Last night, I started removing some of the existing dining room trim. I don’t feel too bad about removing this chair rail because the builder installed it, unlike the chair rail we added to the vestibule. Ultimately, all of it will get yanked before we start adding the wainscoting.
Here’s how I removed the trim…
1. First, I ran a razor, like my box cuter, along all the caulked seams. You’ll need a very sharp blade, preferably a new one. Go slow.
2. Next, I take a small pry bar and jam it into the bottom seam. The bottom didn’t have any caulk on it, which makes it easier to get the pry bar into.
You can see that the builder didn’t use glue and wrote the piece length on the wall. No glue makes it much easier!!
3. To get the caulk off the wall, I use a spackle knife and scrape it.
So this weekend, we’ll be popping off the rest of the molding. Before the wainscoting goes on, I’ll probably spackle these walls smooth with joint compound.
Can’t wait! How’s your week going? Do you find that it’s incredibly difficult to anything after work?
