Build an Archway

Demolition

Step 2: Demolition Derby

To prepare an interior doorway for an arch, first remove the door and jambs, the wood surrounding the door. Then remove trim, drywall, or plaster to expose the framing (the 2 × 4 or 2 × 6 structure).

On a drywall or plaster corner, cut and remove the corner bead (the metal or plastic angle piece capping the corner). Cut the corner bead with a hacksaw or this reciprocating saw, which should have a fine-toothed, metal-cutting blade.

Pull the nails or screws fastening the corner bead. A “cat's paw” removes nails without harming the surroundings. Use gloves to protect against cuts. Protect your eyes during demolition.

Measure up from the floor to the bottom of the arch and remove the drywall or plaster above that point.

Remove drywall around the opening, leaving a smooth, rectangular cutout.

The header—that beam across the top of the opening—and studs are exposed after we removed corner beads and loose drywall. The arch starts at arrows, at the same height used while making the pattern. We'll fill that nasty gouge with patching compound.