How to Remove a Cabinet Hinge

Cabinets are remarkably durable considering the constant use they get and the wear-and-tear inflicted upon them. Everyone in the household opening and closing the doors, and a few family members leaning on them or slamming them can eventually cause some damage, and the hinge of the cabinet is a common piece that fails. Whether you want to replace a broken hinge, change to a different style or just paint the cabinet, it is good to know how to properly remove a cabinet hinge.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Electric drill, electric screwdriver or traditional screwdriver
• Claw or cat's paw
• Drywall screw

1. Inspect the hinge on both the outside of the door and the inside. Locate all the screws that attach it to the door and identify the type of head they have (flat head or Phillips).

2. If necessary, have a helper support the cabinet door as you work to remove the hinge. Taking off a hinge and allowing all the weight of the door to rest on the other hinge can cause damage to it.

3. Remove the screws with a screwdriver or drill. The hinge may come free at this point. Remove the other hinge in the same way and you are finished, unless the hinge is still stuck to the door.

4. Use the edge of a claw or cat's-paw tool to get under the hinge and pry it off gently if it is still attached after removing the screws.

5. Insert a drywall screw into the plastic dowel that is in the wood on certain types of hinges, give it a couple of turns to sink it into the dowel, and pull on the screw to remove it.

References

• Cabinet Hinge Options

Resources

• Kitchen Cabinet Maintenance Is Important

[jbrown13]

on 11/5/2009 check out www.hingedummy.info as well, great step by step with picture instructions