How to Remove Boxed Window Treatments

Boxed window treatments--valances, cornice boxes and cornice boards--conceal curtain and blind hardware and add an attractive finishing touch to your decor. If they have outlived their usefulness or become outdated, it's easy to remove them by employing a few tricks and tools.

Things You'll Need

• Ladder
• Screwdriver or drill
• Hammer
• Pry bar

Instructions

1. Remove drapes or blinds before taking the box down. Work from a ladder with someone holding it.

2. Find the hanging hardware. If the box has a top board, this is where the hardware may be attached. There also may be L brackets in the corners that are screwed to the wall. You can also try lifting up on the valance--it may be attached with picture-hanger hardware.

3. Remove the valance by loosening the hardware. Leave the hardware attached to the wall, if possible, to reduce the chance of the valance falling. Remove hardware from wall or window frame once the valance is safely down.

4. Attempt to pry the cornice loose from the wall only if visible hardware does not release it. Gently place a flat pry bar between the back of the cornice and the wall or window frame. Use a hammer to tap the bar into position if necessary. Apply steady pressure to pull the cornice away from the wall.

Tips & Warnings

• Support the weight of the box while prying to prevent the window treatment from falling.

References

• Cornice Construction
• Cornice Hanging Techniques