Towel rings are common fixtures in bathrooms, providing a convenient and stylish way to hang towels. However, there may come a time when you need to remove a towel ring, whether for replacement, remodeling, or repair purposes. Removing a towel ring might seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be a straightforward process.
In this step-by-step guide on how to remove towel ring, we will walk you through the process of removing a towel ring safely and efficiently.
12 Step-by-step Instructions on How to Remove Towel Ring
Step 1: Gather the Necessary Tools
Before you begin, gather the tools required for the towel ring removal. You will need a screwdriver (Phillips or flathead, depending on the type of screws used), an adjustable wrench, and a putty knife or utility knife. It is also a good idea to get some paper towels and a drop cloth in case of any messes. However, if you have a drywall anchor, you may need a drill as well.
Step 2: Locate the Mounting Hardware
Examine the towel ring to identify the mounting hardware. In most cases, towel rings are attached to the wall with screws, which may be visible or concealed beneath a decorative cover. Look for small caps or covers that conceal the screws. It is also possible that the towel ring may be attached to a drywall anchor, which requires different tools and techniques for removal.
Step 3: Remove the Decorative Cover (if applicable)
If the screws are hidden by decorative covers, use a putty knife or utility knife to gently pry them off the wall. Be careful not to scratch or damage the surrounding wall surface. This step can be skipped if the screws are already visible.
You may also need to use a knife to remove any caulking that seals the decorative cover to the wall. It is important to note that some decorative covers may be glued, which will require additional steps for removal.
Step 4: Loosen the Mounting Screws
Using the appropriate screwdriver, start loosening the mounting screws that secure the towel ring to the wall. Turn the screws counterclockwise until they are loose enough to remove by hand. But do not remove them completely yet. It is important to note that if the towel ring has been installed with drywall anchors, you will need to use an adjustable wrench o loosen the anchors.
Step 5: Remove the Towel Ring
Once the mounting screws are sufficiently loosened, gently lift the towel ring away from the wall. Hold the towel ring with one hand while unscrewing the last bit of the screws to prevent it from falling. You may need to apply some pressure to remove it if there is caulk or drywall anchors attached. If you come across any resistance, stop and check the screws if they are still tight.
Step 6: Inspect the Wall Surface
After removing the towel ring, inspect the wall surface for any damage or residue left behind by the mounting hardware. If there are any holes or marks, you may need to patch or repaint the wall. But if the wall surface is undamaged, you can proceed to the next step. Although, it is a good idea to thoroughly wipe down the area with a damp cloth before moving on.
Step 7: Patching Holes (if necessary)
If there are holes from the mounting screws or anchors, use a patching compound or spackling paste to fill them. Smooth out the patched areas with a putty knife and let them dry. It is important to note that if the holes are large, you may need a drywall patch for a more secure and durable repair. You may also need to sand the patching areas to match the wall surface.
Step 8: Sand and Paint (if necessary)
Once the patched areas are dry, lightly sand them to ensure a smooth surface. If needed, repaint the wall to match the existing color. This is particularly important if the towel ring was installed in a high-traffic area with lots of water and moisture.
Take precautionary steps to protect the surrounding surface from color smudges or paint drips when painting. But if the wall is undamaged, you can skip this step. Otherwise, let the newly painted area dry completely before installing the new towel ring.
Step 9: Consider Wall Anchors (optional)
If you plan to reinstall a towel ring or install a different type of fixture in the same location, consider using wall anchors for added support. Wall anchors provide more stability for heavy or large towel rings. It is important to note that you will need a drill and the right size of wall anchors for this step. But if you don’t plan to install a new towel ring, this step can be skipped.
Step 10: Clean and Store the Towel Ring
Before storing the towel ring, clean it with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or residue. If you intend to reuse the towel ring elsewhere, store it in a safe place until needed. This step is especially important if the towel ring is made of metal or a material that can corrode over time.
Wipe it down with a protective coating like WD-40 for added protection. But if you are replacing the towel ring with a new one, you can skip this step. You may also want to keep the mounting hardware for future use.
Step 11: Consider a Replacement or New Installation
If you removed the towel ring for replacement or to install a different fixture, take this opportunity to select a new towel ring or other bathroom accessories that match your desired style. You may need to install the new fixture using wall anchors or a drywall patch. If you are installing a new towel ring in the same location, make sure to use the correct mounting hardware and follow manufacturer instructions for installation.
If the towel ring is too large or heavy, consider installing a wall-mounted towel bar instead. With the right tools and materials, you can successfully replace your old towel ring with a stylish new one.
Step 12: Final Inspection
Before concluding the process, inspect the wall surface and the area where the towel ring was removed to ensure that everything looks clean and undamaged. If needed, make any final adjustments or touch-ups. You can now reinstall or install the new towel ring and enjoy a fresh look in your bathroom. Remember to follow manufacturer instructions for proper installation and care.
Good luck! With these steps on how to remove towel ring, you should have successfully removed your old towel ring with minimal effort and damage. Now you can appreciate your newly remodeled or updated bathroom space. Enjoy!
Do You Need To Hire a Professional?
In most cases, you do not need to hire a professional to remove a towel ring. Removing a towel ring is a relatively straightforward task that can be easily accomplished by homeowners with basic DIY skills and the right tools.
Hiring a professional for this simple task may not be cost-effective, as it can be completed quickly without the need for specialized expertise. But if the towel ring is particularly large or heavy, you may want to consider hiring a professional for safety and stability reasons.
If you are unsure of how to properly remove your current towel ring or install a new one, always consult an expert before attempting any DIY projects. This will ensure that your towel rings and other bathroom fixtures remain secure and safe for years to come.
How Much Could It Cost?
The cost to remove a towel ring can vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of the installation, the type of mounting hardware used, and whether you choose to do it yourself or hire a professional. Here are some cost considerations:
DIY Removal:
If you choose to remove the towel ring yourself, the cost will mainly be limited to any tools you may need to purchase. These tools may include a screwdriver, putty knife, and utility knife. Assuming you already have basic tools, the cost will be minimal, likely ranging from $0 to $20 for any specific tools you need to buy.
Professional Removal:
Hiring a professional handyman or plumber to remove the towel ring can cost anywhere from $50 to $150, depending on your location, the complexity of the removal, and the labor rates in your area. This cost may also include any minor wall repairs or touch-ups if necessary.
Conclusion
Removing a towel ring from your bathroom wall is a simple task that can be accomplished with a few basic tools and careful handling. Whether you are replacing the towel ring, making repairs, or renovating your bathroom, this step-by-step guide on how to remove towel ring will help you complete the removal process smoothly. Always exercise caution when handling tools and removing fixtures from walls to avoid damage and ensure a successful towel ring removal experience.
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