You may need to use the wire saw or heat gun to melt the remaining adhesive if it is resistant. Go slowly to minimize the damage to the drywall. With the help of a partner, pry the mirror from the wall. This helps to keep the mirror from falling or breaking. As you saw, the friction cut through the adhesive, allowing you to pull the wire down as you go. Move your handles back and forth rapidly as you pull the wire down. Make sure the wire fits snugly between the wall and the mirror.
You may need to slide the wire back and forth slightly to get it started and through the corner. Starting at one upper hand corner of the mirror, place the wire against the wall and slide it between the mirror and the drywall. Get the wire saw and hold it by the handles. If there is some, use the heat gun to soften it, then scrape it off with the putty knife. Once the mirror is removed, inspect the wall for any lingering adhesive. Do not be alarmed if some drywall comes off with the mirror. As the mirror comes off, use your other hand to hold and guide it away from the wall. Once the blade is in place between the wall and the mirror, pull the handle lightly towards you to pry the mirror off the wall. Slide a putty knife or drywall knife’s blade in between the mirror and the drywall at the bottom corner. Leave it pointed at the mirror for at least 15 minutes to melt the adhesive in the back of the mirror. Hold it 6 to 12 inches away from the surface of the mirror. Apply heat to the corners and the edges of the mirror with a heat gun or blow-dryer, then work your way toward the center.
This method works best for smaller mirrors (2×2 ft or smaller). The tape prevents the shards of the mirror from flying everywhere if it shatters. You can cover the entire mirror or place strips of tape every few inches. Tape the MirrorĬover the mirror with strips of tape, crossing in several directions. Put on your safety gear then cover the floor or countertop with a heavy canvas drop cloth. If your mirror is over a vanity, remove all the clutter from the countertop. Protect Yourself and the Areaīefore you start the demolition, make sure all obstacles are removed.
How to get putty off of walls update#
Swapping your dated mirror is an inexpensive way to update your bathroom instantly. Frameless mirrors glued to a wall can look dated and less refined. There are two reasons to remove a mirror glued to a wall: to update or to fix a damaged mirror.