DIY: Removing a Large Bathroom Mirror

At one time, large bathroom mirrors were incredibly popular. Installed with heavy adhesive and mirror clips, they were not made to be removed. Removing a large sheet of mirror can be dangerous, because the mirror will often break. However, if you wish to remove it and are prepared to take some precautions and wear safety gear, you should be able to remove it in an afternoon.

Before beginning, make sure you are wearing a thick, long sleeved shirt and pants, heavy work gloves, and safety goggles. Also have a plan for disposing of the mirror: it may be against the law to simply through it away because it could present a safety hazard.

Step 1: Apply masking tape to the surface of the mirror to hold the mirror together when it cracks. Start with a large X that runs the full length of the mirror. Then add more strips of tape, until the mirror is sectioned off into areas that are roughly six inches by six inches.

Step 2: Cover the floor with a drop cloth and use a second drop cloth for the cabinet below the mirror. Use heavy objects to hold the second drop cloth into place.

Step 3: Remove the mirror clips. Someone should hold the mirror in place while you complete this step. Make sure your helper is wearing the correct safety attire as well. Although the mirror should not shift, some mirrors may only be installed with mirror clips.

Step 4: Use a hair dryer to heat the underlying adhesive. Hold the hair dryer, at its hottest setting, about three inches away from the surface of the glass. Move it in small circles, and heat all of the glass thoroughly to soften the adhesive.

Step 5: Place a piece of piano wire just behind the top of the mirror glass. Hold one side and have your helper hold the other side of the piano wire. Move it back and forth like a saw to detach the adhesive from the mirror.

Step 6: Once the piano wire has reached the bottom of the mirror, allow the mirror to tilt slightly forward. Carefully remove the mirror with the aid of your helper.