Cutting a Kitchen Wall to Make a Breakfast Bar

Cutting a hole in a wall is the first step of a breakfast bar addition.

Make your kitchen a more functional, inviting space with the installation of a breakfast bar. A breakfast bar serves as a casual eating area where friends and family members can enjoy any meal. Another added bonus is that a breakfast bar will open up a kitchen, making it feel more open and airy. Cutting a hole in the chosen wall is the first step in creating this addition. With some basic tools, you can cut the hole and be on your way to making your breakfast bar.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Level
• Pencil
• Utility knife
• Reciprocating saw
• Hammer or mallet
• Goggles

Instructions

1. Determine the location for the hole. Use a measuring tape to mark out the height and width of the opening. Use a level and a pencil to draw a rectangular shape on the wall that equals the dimensions you want the opening to be.

2. Scour the walls with a utility knife. Insert a sharp utility knife into the lines drawn on the wall. Firmly press the utility knife into the end of each of the lines and pull the utility knife along the lines, cutting through the surface of the drywall.

3. Pull the cut drywall from the wall.

4. Cut the top and bottom of any studs within the opening with a reciprocating saw. Push on the cut portion of the studs to remove them. If the studs are difficult to remove even after cutting, rap them with a hammer or mallet to knock them out of place.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear goggles to protect your eyes from flying debris.

References

• Home Tips: How to Cut In a Wall to Install a Doorway