How to Remove Wood Trim

Updated: Mar. 04, 2022

The best way to remove trim without damaging the wall

FH09JAU_TRIREM_01-2 removing crown moldingFamily Handyman
How to remove trim, moldings and other woodwork without damaging the wall or cracking the wood. Quick and easy techniques.

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Removing Crown Molding: Wood trim removal technique

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Photo 1: Insert two taping knifes

To remove crown molding, jam a pry bar between the two knives and twist sideways.

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Photo 2: Pull nails from the back side

Grab the nail shaft near the wood with a pair of nippers. Roll the tool head against the wood to pull the nail out the back side of the trim.

If you’re trying to remove baseboard trim or other moldings, chances are you’ll dent the walls or crack the wood wall trim in the process. Follow these simple techniques to avoid additional wall and trim repairs.

Begin by cutting through any dried paint along the top edge of the trim with a utility knife. Then search for the filled nail holes at one end of the trim. Prying near those will keep you from breaking out the drywall. Slide a flexible 3-in. putty knife behind the trim and pry out slightly. With the knife in place, wedge in a pry bar and pry the trim out an inch. If it seems like the trim is about to crack, insert a second putty knife between the pry bar and the trim. Move to the next stud and repeat the procedure. Continue prying out the trim a little at a time down its length. Then go back to the beginning and pull the trim off.

Pushing the nails back through the front of the trim will splinter the wood. Instead, pull them through the back with nippers (Photo 2). Use just enough pressure to pull the nails to avoid cutting them off. If one breaks off, cut it as close as possible to the wood and leave it. That nub will just bury itself in the drywall when you reinstall the baseboard.

Required Tools for this Project

Have the necessary tools for this DIY how to remove baseboards project lined up before you start—you’ll save time and frustration.

  • Nippers
  • Pry bar
  • Putty knife
  • Utility knife