Remove Interior Door Trim

Remove Interior Door Trim with Ease

Interior door trim serves both functional and aesthetic purposes. It conceals the gap between the door frame and the wall, providing insulation and a finished look. However, when it comes time to renovate or replace your trim, it's crucial to remove it properly to avoid damage to the door frame or the trim.

Tools and Materials:

Flathead screwdriver
Pry bar
Hammer or mallet
Putty knife
Nail set

Step 1: Remove the Casing

Start at the top of the door trim, where the casing meets the door frame. Carefully insert the flathead screwdriver into the gap between the casing and the frame. Gently tap the screwdriver with the hammer or mallet to pry the casing loose.

Work your way around the entire door, prizing the casing away from the frame. Avoid using excessive force that could damage the wood.

Step 2: Remove the Stops

Once the casing is removed, it's time to remove the stops. These are the thin strips of trim that run along the vertical sides of the door frame and the threshold.

Use the pry bar to gently pry the stops away from the frame. Be careful not to bend or damage the stops.

Step 3: Remove the Nails

With the casing and stops removed, it's time to extract the nails holding the trim in place. Use the nail set to punch the nails below the surface of the wood.

You can then use the putty knife to gently pry the nails out of the wood.

Step 4: Remove the Backer Rods

In some cases, backer rods may be installed behind the trim to provide insulation. These rods are typically made of foam or rubber.

Use the pry bar to gently pry the backer rods loose from the door frame.

Step 5: Clean the Opening

With the trim removed, it's time to clean the opening to prepare for the installation of new trim.

Use a damp cloth to wipe away any dust or debris from the door frame and the wall.

Tips:

Start with the top of the trim and work your way down.
Use a pry bar or flathead screwdriver between the trim and the door frame, not between the trim and the wall.
Protect the door frame from damage by covering the pry bar with a cloth.
If the nails are difficult to remove, use a nail puller.
Take your time and be patient to avoid damaging the door frame or trim.