How to remove this mirror to replace with mirrored cabinet?

[porterco]

 

Hello,

This is my first time posting here so thank you in advance for any advice. 

I’m wondering how I can pry off this mirror from the wall in my bathroom in order to replace it with a mirrored cabinet/shaving cabinet. It is approx 1100mm H x 500mm W. 

As far as I can tell it’s just stuck (glued?) directly on to the wall. I’m a little worried about it shattering into many pieces so I’m after any tips to be able to do it the safest way possible. 

As hopeful as I am that there will be minimal damage to the wall itself behind it, I am fine to do a bit of patching and painting and will call someone in to replace the plaster if necessary. 

Is this something safe enough to do as a DIY or should I be calling in some help?

Tips and advice are welcome and appreciated. 

Thank you!

[AlanM52]

Hi @porterco,

There are a few ways to approach but your job is a non-standard job that requires additional planning because the mirror is in a tight spot with only two sides accessible and even that is tight... thinking.

This has worked for me but the procedure will need to be modified because of the above.

Anyway let's get started and you need someone to help.

Follow the safety thing, eye protection, gloves etc.

Stuff you will need:

Masking tape, Hammer, Two Hair dryers and Wedges.

similar to that.

Mask all of the mirror with rows of masking tape.

Insert wedges along the left and across the top.

Start heating and then a few hammer taps work around.

While doing that ask helper to heat lower area of mirror and along the right side.

Keep going... helper to keep applying heat.

Hopefully it will start to come away but be prepared for breakage!

Cheers

[porterco]

Thank you so much for your response @AlanM52 

The right side of the mirror is also accessible but you’re completely right in that it’s a really tight space. There is only around 140mm from each side of the mirror to the walls beside so it’s going to be tough.

I’ll definitely try and work from the left side and top and see how I go. Thankfully I already have all those supplies besides the wedges which I can easily get.

I’m expecting a fair but of breakage but taping the mirror is a great idea and will definitely help to prevent shards flying all over the place. 

Thank you again for taking the time to respond, I really appreciate your advice!

[AlanM52]

Happy to assist and one more thing.

If needed you can slide that in, feel for the glued spots and start jabbing - with heating.

Cheers

[porterco]

Great recommendation. 

Thank you again!

[JacobZ]

Hi @porterco,

I'd just like to jump in to welcome you to the Bunnings Workshop community.

@AlanM52 has already provided some fantastic advice, which you can follow along with.

Just to add an alternative, if you use the wedges to create a gap at the top of the mirror, you can then slip a piece of Braided Picture Hanging Wire behind the mirror and use it to cut down on the glue.

Please remember to be very cautious as glass can shatter and cause lacerations. Make sure you tape the face of the mirror as this will help to keep it together in the event of an accident. Please also remember to wear gloves, eye protection, long protective clothing and enclosed shoes

Let us know if you have any further questions.

Jacob

[porterco]

Thank you so much for the advice @JacobZ

The picture hanging wire seems like a great way to find where the glue is. 

Cheers!