DIY Network

Kitchen Pass-Through Karl transforms a clutter-magnet wall into a cabinet and pass-through loaded with storage. From "Wasted Spaces" episode DWSP-203

This wall has got to go – scroll down to see how.

The Spirkos' family room wall only does one thing: collect toys and other clutter. The first step to reclaiming this wasted space is to remove the wall, without compromising the structural integrity.

Host Karl Champley and homeowner Michael Spirko begin creating the kitchen pass-through by clearing the room and marking the wall section to be removed. They score the drywall with a razor knife, pry off the trim and break the drywall off at the score marks. A crowbar and reciprocating saw make short work of the rest of the demolition, including a surprise run of plywood they find inside the wall.

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Kitchen Pass-Through

Materials:

wood glue screws nails lumber - 1x6 pine - 1x8 pine - 1/4" lattice - 3/4" plywood - wood trim

pre-fab cabinets 1/4" backer board tiles tile adhesive/mortar grout (sanded) countertop heavy-duty adhesive wood stain paint

Tools:

2-1/2 quart plastic container safety glasses dust mask ear plugs work gloves rubber or latex gloves carpenter’s pencil level/straight edge tape measure razor knife paint scraper crowbar or pry bar

hammer reciprocating saw circular saw jigsaw electric screwdriver nail gun notched trowel grout float sponge chop saw paint brushes, rollers, trays drop cloths

	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C

Wall Demolition

• Clear the area on both sides of the pass-through wall and remove any pictures or other items. Spread sturdy drop cloths on the floor on both sides of the wall to protect floors and make cleanup easier.

• Use a pencil and straight edge to mark the portion of the wall for removal. Remember: The end post of the project wall is load-bearing, so it will remain as part of the final design. Never remove a wall stud or post if removal will harm the structural integrity of the wall.

• Use a crowbar to remove the baseboards in the project area of the wall.

• Use a razor knife to score the drywall along the marked line. Remove all of the drywall using a hammer, crowbar or other means (figure A).

  Safety Alert: Always wear safety glasses and a dust mask when cutting or removing drywall. Wear work gloves when removing drywall from the wall to protect hands from sharp edges, drywall screws, nails or other objects (figure B).

• Use a reciprocating saw to finish the demolition (figure C). The project wall wasn't solid all the way to the ceiling, and was strengthened with plywood instead of wall studs. When working with a more traditional wall, make sure the studs aren't load-bearing, then cut through them as close to the ends as possible with the reciprocating saw. Trim out the bare surface at the ceiling with lumber and paint to match the rest of the project at completion.

  Safety Alert: Wear safety glasses and earplugs when using a reciprocating saw, and keep kids and pets well away from the work area. These powerful tools can generate a strong "kick back" and can be difficult to control.

• With the wall section removed, clean up the project area and move on to customizing the cabinets.

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