To remove a quarter round under cabinets, follow these steps:
Tools you may need:
- Pry bar or flathead screwdriver
- Hammer
- Utility knife
Steps:
Prepare the area: Clear any items or debris from the area around the quarter round. This will give you enough space to work comfortably.
Locate the nails or adhesive: Quarter round molding is typically held in place with either nails or adhesive. Inspect the quarter round to determine which method was used for installation.
If held by nails:
- Use a utility knife to score along the edges where the quarter round meets the cabinet and the floor. This will help prevent any damage to the cabinet or floor when removing the quarter round.
- Insert the flat end of a pry bar or a flathead screwdriver between the quarter round and the cabinet base. Gently apply pressure to lift the molding away from the cabinet.
- Once you have a small gap, continue sliding the pry bar along the length of the quarter round to gradually loosen it from the cabinet base. Be careful not to apply too much force, as this could damage the molding or surrounding area.
- If necessary, use a hammer to tap the pry bar gently to help separate the quarter round from the cabinet.
If held by adhesive:
- Insert a utility knife between the quarter round and the cabinet base. Gently run the knife along the seam to break any adhesive bonds. Be cautious not to damage the cabinet or the quarter round while doing this.
- Once the adhesive bond is weakened, use a pry bar or screwdriver to gently lift the quarter round away from the cabinet. Apply gradual pressure along the length of the molding until it comes off completely.
Remove any remaining nails or adhesive: After removing the quarter round, check for any remaining nails or adhesive on the cabinet or the molding. Use pliers to pull out any nails or a putty knife to scrape off any adhesive residue.
Clean and prepare for new molding (if needed): If you plan to install new quarter round molding, take the time to clean the area and ensure it's free of any debris or adhesive. You can also sand the surface lightly to create a smooth and clean surface for the new molding.
Remember, always work carefully and slowly when removing quarter round or any molding to avoid causing damage to the surrounding surfaces. If you're unsure about the process or concerned about damaging the cabinets, it's a good idea to seek assistance from a professional carpenter or handyman.