How to remove nails set in wood trim to remove the trim w/o damage?

Question

I need to replace the operator hardware in 3 windows, and must remove some narrow trim to get at and replace the hardware.

Nails are set into wood. I removed putty but can't figure out how to get the nails out.

Nailing them in further with a nail set may not work.

Trying to use a crowbar to remove the trim without first removing the nails may damage trim.

Suggestions?

Answer 1

If the nails are set into the trim, you are not going to get them out without damaging the  trim. Just use a small prybar and be gentle. Let the nails pull through the trim. This is an easy fix once removed.

Answer 2

once you have pried off the trim, just PULL the nails out through the backside of the trim with pliers or better yet, round head end-cutter. re-putty the holes you have removed the putty from(you didn't need to remove the putty)

Answer 3

Get a nailset that has a long tapered tip and knock the nail on through. If you get the nail nearly or all the way through, you should be able to get it off without breaking. Just dont forget to run your knife blade through the caulk (if any) where the trim meets the wall to separate it.

Answer 4

You should try to get a reciprocating saw blade between the trim and the backing to cut the nails. Use the flattest pry bar you can find, not a crow bar.

Answer 5

pry off the trim carefully and then use pliers and pull them out from the back you will not damage the boards that way just a hole the size of the nail head and you can use them to re nail

Answer 6

I seen your "additional details" and yes..actualy you can drive the nails through with a nail set..these are trim nails and have next to no head on them..all trim on windows are nailed to the wooden window frame..then to the walls too..trim nails are supoposed to hit wood or the trim wouldn't stay snug..just drive the nails through the trim and they will sink into the frame too..You do not have to set them in the frame wood..just enough to go through the trim..then pull the trim off..the nails then will be protruding from the window frame  and you pull them out after the trim is off.. I have done EVERY job like this I have done with trim on it needing to be saved..IT WILL WORK..

Answer 7

Cut caulking line at edge of trim with a razor knife. use builders shims and drve them in between wall and trim then use a flat bar to finish prying off the trim. take your time and use many shims to keep  from damaging the trim

good luck