How to Remove Wooden Trim

Removing wooden trim boards can be done without too much trouble in just a few minutes. The wooden trim is attached to door or window frames as well as the top or bottom of a wall with small nails. Removing the wooden trim or molding should be done carefully to prevent placing gouges in the wall or frames. You can save yourself time and money when remodeling by removing the wooden trim yourself.

Things You'll Need

• Utility knife
• Putty knife
• Hammer
• Pry bar (optional)

Instructions

1. Score any wooden trim that is painted, cutting the paint between the trim and wood frames with a utility knife to make removing the trim easier.

2. Slide a putty knife between the wooden trim and the wood frames or wall and gently tap the end of the putty knife with a hammer to get a better leverage on the trim.

3. Pry the wood trim away gently with the putty knife. If you need more leverage, use the claw end of the hammer or a small pry bar to pry the piece off.

4. Repeat the above steps for any other molding or wood trim boards that need to be removed.

Tips & Warnings

• Be careful when prying off the wooden trim not to leave gouge marks in the walls or windows with the prybar.

References

• This Old House: Removing Wooden Trim
• Family Handyman: How to Remove Wood Trim