How to Remove Wall Sconces From a Wall Without Damaging the Wall?

Removing old wall sconces and refurbishing the walls of your abode is a difficult task. But worry not, for it is not as intricate as it may appear. So How to remove wall sconces from a wall without damaging the wall?

With a few uncomplicated steps and some elementary equipment, you can effortlessly remove the sconces without the apprehension of any unsightly holes or damage to the wall.

In this guide for beginners, I will lead you through the process of dismantling wall sconces carefully, commencing from the preparation and culminating in completion. Additionally, I will furnish you with invaluable tips and techniques to make the process more facile and proficient.

Upon reaching the conclusion of this guide, you will possess the aptitude and self-assurance to remove those antiquated sconces and award your walls the sprucing up they merit. Let us commence without further upset.

Importance of Removing Wall Sconces Without Damaging the Wall

It is important to note that removing wall sconces without damaging the wall is crucial. Damaging the wall can be expensive to repair, take a lot of time, and ruin the look of the room. It can also be dangerous if electrical wires are exposed or the structure is weakened.

Not causing any damage when removing wall sconces is also good for the environment. By avoiding unnecessary damage, you reduce the need for repairs and replacements, which means less waste and a better environment.

No matter if you are a homeowner, tenant, or decorator, it is essential to be careful when removing wall sconces. This will keep the wall intact, maintain the room’s beauty, and help the environment.

Preparation for the Work

Before preparing for the removal of wall sconces from your wall, it is imperative to have a thorough preparation. Adequate preparation can simplify the process, accelerate the task and most significantly, safeguard against any destruction to your wall or adjacent areas. 

Below are the three critical subcategories to contemplate during the preparation phase for the extraction of wall sconces:

1 Turn off the Electricity

To ensure your safety when removing the wall sconces, it is critical to turn off the electricity. You can do this by locating the circuit breaker box in your home and finding the switch that controls the power supply to the sconces. Flip the switch to the off position and double-check to make sure it’s secure.

Keep in mind that just turning off the light switch is not sufficient to ensure your safety during the removal process. There could still be electrical current flowing through the wires, which can pose a danger to your health.

2 Gather Necessary Tools

To remove the wall sconces, you will need a few basic tools. Make sure you have them all before you start working to prevent any unnecessary trips to the hardware store. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Screwdriver: A screwdriver is necessary to remove the screws that hold the sconce in place.
2. Putty Knife: You will need a putty knife to gently pry the mounting bracket away from the wall.
3. Drywall Filler: After removing the sconces, there will be some holes left behind. Drywall filler can be used to fill in these holes.
4. Sandpaper: You will need sandpaper to smooth out the drywall filler once it’s dry.
5. Drill and Pliers: If the mounting bracket is glued or stuck to the wall, you will need a drill or pliers to remove it carefully.

You need to have all these tools before starting will make the process easier and faster. Remember to use the correct tools that are appropriate for the type of wall and the sconces you’re removing to avoid any damage. Any wrong tool might damage the wall or your fingers.

“So, be cautious”.

3 Protect Surrounding Areas

When removing wall sconces, you must keep your surroundings clean. Using painter’s or masking tape, cover any nearby surfaces such as furniture, the floor, and electrical sockets or switches to protect them from debris.

To catch any falling dust or debris, place a drop cloth or old sheet under the work area, making the clean-up process faster and more manageable.

Removing the Wall Sconce EASILY

Now that you have properly prepared for removing the wall sconces, it’s time to get to work. Here are the three sub-sections that explain the step-by-step process of removing the wall sconce without damaging the wall:

A. Unscrewing the Sconce from the Mounting Bracket

To initiate the process, the foremost step is to detach the sconce from the mounting bracket. This can be done by a screwdriver to locate and loosen the screws that are responsible for holding the sconce in place on the bracket. 

Take caution to steer clear of losing the screws or any diminutive components by storing them in a safe location.

B. Removing the Mounting Bracket from the Wall

Once the sconce has been removed, the mounting bracket will still be firmly fixed to the wall. To eliminate it, wield a putty knife with great care and gentleness to gradually pry it away from the wall. 

Start at one end of the bracket and progressively work your way around, utilizing the putty knife to loosen it. Beware of forcing or prying too strenuously as it may cause damage to the wall.

In the event that the bracket is bonded or attached to the wall, a drill or pliers may be required to carefully eradicate it. Employ a drill bit that is somewhat larger than the screws that were responsible for holding the bracket in its position. 

Drill a hole into the center of the bracket, and then cautiously employ pliers to twist and withdraw the bracket from the wall.

C. Filling Holes and Touching Up the Wall

Following the removal of the mounting bracket, there will be noticeable apertures left on the wall. These openings can be rectified by employing a drywall filler. 

Refer to the directions on the packaging to amalgamate the filler substance, and then apply it to the gaps using a putty knife. Ensure that the holes are entirely filled before utilizing the putty knife to level and smoothen the filler, making it flush with the wall.

Upon the completion of the filler application, wait for it to dry before utilizing sandpaper to rectify any jagged spots or protrusions. 

Once the wall’s surface is completely smooth, it can be repainted to match the adjacent area. In the event that the precise hue of the original paint is not available, take a small segment of the drywall filler to a hardware store to get the color matched.

Tips and Tricks to NOT Damaging the Wall

Wall sconces can certainly enhance the atmosphere of any room, emanating a comforting and hospitable aura. Nonetheless, the removal of these fixtures can prove to be a formidable challenge, especially if one aims to refrain from inflicting harm upon their walls. 

Worry not, however, as I can furnish you with some uncomplicated pointers and techniques to aid you in the removal of your wall sconces while maintaining your walls’ integrity.

A. Dealing with stubborn screws:

The first step to removing wall sconces is to unscrew them from the wall. However, sometimes screws can be stubborn and refuse to budge. Here are some tips to help you remove stubborn screws:

• Try using a rubber band: Place a rubber band over the screw head and use your screwdriver to turn it. The rubber band provides extra grip, which can help you turn the screw.
• Use a screwdriver with a bigger handle: A bigger handle will provide you with more leverage, making it easier to turn the screw.
• Apply heat: Use a hairdryer or a heat gun to apply heat to the screw. This can help loosen the screw, making it easier to remove.

B. Using a putty knife to remove the mounting bracket:

Once you’ve removed the screws, the next step is to remove the mounting bracket. Here’s how you can do it without damaging your walls:

• Use a putty knife: Insert the putty knife between the mounting bracket and the wall, and gently poke/pry it off. Be careful and do not apply too much pressure, as this can damage your walls.
• Cut the adhesive: Some mounting brackets are attached to the wall using adhesive. Use a utility knife to cut through the adhesive, and then gently pry the bracket off using the putty knife.

C. Avoiding damage to the wall:

Here are some tips to help you avoid damaging your walls when removing wall sconces:

• Use a stud finder: Use a stud finder to locate the studs on your wall. This will help you determine where to place your screws when re-installing your wall sconces.
• Be gentle: When removing the screws and mounting brackets, be gentle and take your time. Applying too much force can damage your walls. Carefully remove the screws.
• Patch any holes: After removing your wall sconces, patch any holes using a spackle or drywall compound. Allow the compound to dry, and then sand it smoothly.

Don’t throw the wall sconces right after removing them from the wall. I have written a detailed guide on how to dispose of the old light fixture. You can read the article and follow similar steps to dispose of the wall sconces.

How much does it cost to remove the wall sconces? 

The cost of removing wall sconces can vary depending on various factors, including the intricacy of the undertaking, the placement of the lamps, and the professional engaged for the assignment.

If one intends to undertake the removal of the wall-mounted lamps themselves, the cost will depend on whether they already have the tools and materials necessary for the task. In this situation, the cost will likely be lower, as one may only require a few rudimentary tools, such as a screwdriver, putty knife, and spackle.

Nevertheless, if one resolves to commission a proficient electrician or handyman to undertake the removal of the wall-mounted lamps, the cost can range from approximately $75 to $200 or more, contingent on the intricacy of the task and the placement of the lamps. The cost may further depend on the presence of any electrical wires, which may necessitate an electrician’s adeptness.

Conclusion

Removing wall sconces can prove to be a technique that necessitates proper execution. It is imperative to proceed with care, employing a gentle touch and ensuring that any resultant holes are adequately patched, thereby rendering your walls as good as new.

It is worth noting that if you are hesitant in your ability to remove your wall sconces, or if you lack confidence in your DIY skills, it is optimal to seek the services of a professional electrician or handyman. These experts possess both the expertise and requisite tools necessary for the safe and damage-free removal of your wall sconces.

To sum up, with the appropriate tools and techniques at your disposal, the process of removing wall sconces can prove to be a facile and worry-free task. Employ the tips and tricks outlined above to ensure a seamless and unobtrusive removal without detriment to your walls. We wish you a happy and successful renovation!