What is the best way to remove a bathroom mirror that is glued?

Question

I've heard to use wire and to break it - would rather not have the mess and/or danger of breaking it if possible - any ideas?
Thanks.

Answer 1

Cut around it with a razor knife. Remove the drywall with the mirror. That is the safest and cleanest way. Then cut a piece of drywall and replace the cut away part. tape and putty.

Answer 2

Those really are the two best methods. You can also use an electrician's heat gun to heat the adhesive, while prying the mirror with a putty knife. Just blow the heat directly onto the mirror where the spots of adhesive are. Once you find the pattern of the adhesive, the process will move much quicker. But BE PREPARED for the mirror to fall at any time. This is something that requires two or more people. Where leather gloves.

If you want to break the mirror without the mess, wear leather gloves and use the stickiest duct tape you can find. Coat the entire mirror with it(preferably 2 layers-horizontally, then vertically) and go at it. You wall will be slightly damaged no matter what you do.

The best method is definitely to use a length of wire supplied by hardware stores specifically designed for this purpose. You can also use piano wire or picture hanging wire, as long as the wire is stranded or wound, so that it mimicks seraded edges. You will need to use a long length of it with handles at each end. One way to prevent injuring yuor hands with the wire is to put aquarium tubing on the handles. Start at the top left corner and saw to the middle, then work from the next corner and so on.

No matter what you do, this process will take a while. And ALWAYS be prepared for the mirror to fall. Don't let anyone stand right in front of the mirror if possible. Watch your feet when it falls...the things are heavy enough that they will slice off your toes right through your shoes. and when it hits bottom, it will shatter, sending shards of glass right in your direction.

Answer 3

I have been in remodeling/construction..for over 25 years...most mirrors that are glued onto drywall will come off if you pry them carefully do not use metal...maybe use a wooden wedge to lift it out...do not pry too close to the corners..stay @ 5 - 6 inches from the corners..I said MOST mirrors..because I did Break 1 @ 15 years ago....lol...even if it does break the other piece will probably stay glued to the wall...wear safety glasses and gloves


The above is guessing that your mirror is one that is about 1/4 inch thick..no frame...

Answer 4

go with mr bingo...he has the best answer to your question. you can wear safety glasses and a pair of canvas gloves for added protection in case the the mirror and dry wall get away from you. cover the drain in your sink if you are working above it. but i agree with bingo...if you are lucky enough to get the mirror off using the suggestions of others you are going to be left with a construction type adhesive on the wall and it will be a b##ch to get that off. using the bingo method you have a nice smooth finish when the job is complete...i tried to think of a way before i read the other answers and bingo is a genius...nice one bing! i vote mr bingo's as the best answer....

Answer 5

No experience with removing mirrors BUT ...

Tape the whole mirror with duct tape or masking tape. That should keep the glass from flying all over the place should it break. Make sure you wear eye protection!

Answer 6

Try a long, thin metal ruler...3 people will be required...2 to pull it down from top to bottom; 1 to hold the mirror.

Answer 7

You may be able to get it off in one piece with a heat gun and careful prying with a putty knife. The heat gun should soften the glue enough for the knife to work, but it'll be a lot of work and may not get it without breaking.