How to Remove a Set of Finishing Nails

Whether you are replacing your windows or painting the walls surrounding them, there may be times when removal of the window moldings is necessary. If the moldings are in relatively good condition, but the old finishing nails have become rusted or are in need of replacement, removal can be done without damage to the window moldings. A strong pair of pliers and a bit of patience can help you get the job done.

Things You'll Need

• Pry bar
• Hammer
• Pliers
• Fine grit sandpaper
• Wood filler

Instructions

1. Use a pry bar to remove the existing moldings. Perform this step diligently, or else you will crack the molding. Gently moving the pry bar back and forth should be sufficient to separate the molding from the wall.

2. Flip a piece of molding over to expose the underside that contains the back ends of the finishing nails. This should be done on a hard work surface such as a workbench or set of workhorses that are topped with a stable piece of plywood.

3. Use a pair of pliers to grab the tip of the first finishing nail. Holding the back end of the nail firmly with the pliers, gently wiggle the nail back and forth until it becomes loose enough to pull straight out through the back of the molding.

4. Continue the process of pulling each of the old finishing nails through the back of each molding piece, with the assistance of the pair of pliers. Gently sand the back of the molding with a piece of fine grit sandpaper to remove any loose wood fragments.

5. Reattach the window moldings with a new set of finishing nails. Keep in mind that the holes from the previous set of finishing nails may have expanded when the old finishing nails were pulled out. Therefore, it is a good idea not to use the original holes for your new nails. Hammer the new finishing nails in adjacent to the original holes, instead.

Tips & Warnings

• For aesthetic purposes, it is a good idea to fill the old finishing nail holes with a small amount of wood filler. Once the wood filler dries, a light sanding with fine grit sandpaper makes the hole barely noticeable after a fresh coat of paint.

• Take your time, and don't rush. The process of removing the old set of finishing nails may sound tedious, but it will save you money in the long run because you will not have to replace the moldings. But, if removing the old set of finishing nails has resulted in a hairline fracture, the wood filler can be pressed into the area. Light sanding and a new coat of paint will render the crack undetectable.

Resources

• Finishing nails
• Pliers