How to Make Room for a Wide Refrigerator

Upgrading to a larger refrigerator can be exciting, but it often comes with the challenge of fitting it into an existing space. Many homeowners face the dilemma of a new fridge that’s just slightly too wide for its designated alcove. Fortunately, there’s a solution that doesn’t require major renovations. In this article, we’ll explore how to widen a refrigerator nook to accommodate a larger appliance. This Old House general contractor, Tom Silva, helps two homeowners with the process of expanding a refrigerator space by removing drywall and making smart adjustments.

Understanding the Challenge of Making Space in a Room

Safety should be your top priority when modifying any wall in your home. Here are some important steps you should take:

• Check for electrical wires, plumbing, or ductwork in the wall.
• Make sure you have proper ventilation for the refrigerator.
• Maintain the structural integrity of the surrounding cabinetry.
• Use appropriate safety gear, such as goggles and gloves.

Working within these guidelines will lead to a safe and efficient expansion of your refrigerator space.

Preparing to Make Room for Your Refrigerator

There are several preparatory steps to take before you start cutting into walls.

Gathering Tools and Materials

To complete this project, you’ll need the following tools and materials:

• Reciprocating saw with a long blade
• Flat pry bar
• Pneumatic brad nailer
• Drywall knife
• Shop vacuum
• ⅛-inch-thick hardboard
• Joint compound
• Paint and primer
• Quarter-round molding
• Safety goggles and dust mask

Assessing the Space

Measure the width of your new refrigerator and compare it to the existing alcove. Determine how much additional space you need — often, it’s just a half-inch or so. Silva demonstrates how to gain that extra space by removing drywall.

Protecting Your Floor

Before moving the refrigerator, you need to protect your floor. Lay a sheet of 1/8-inch-thick hardboard on the floor in front of the refrigerator. This will allow you to easily slide the appliance out without damaging your flooring.

Step-by-Step Process to Make Room for a Wide Refrigerator

Follow these steps to widen your refrigerator alcove safely and effectively.

1. Removing the Refrigerator

Place the hardboard on the floor in front of the refrigerator and carefully pull the refrigerator out onto it. Roll the appliance out of the way to access the alcove.

2. Opening the Wall

Use a reciprocating saw with a long blade to cut through the drywall of the alcove wall. Make your cut even with the underside of the cabinet above. Remove all the drywall from the interior surface of the alcove wall using a pry bar.

3. Dealing with Tongue-and-Groove Sheathing

When opening up walls, you may encounter surprises. In some cases, you might find tongue-and-groove sheathing behind the drywall, which was what happened with Silva’s project. This could work in favor of the project, as it provides a solid backing for the new surface.

4. Preparing the New Surface

Follow these steps to prepare the new surface: 

1. Carefully remove the corner bead from the edge of the wall.
2. Use the reciprocating saw to trim the drywall flush with the interior surface.
3. Cut a piece of 1/8-inch-thick hardboard to fit over the alcove wall.
4. Cover the interior surface of the alcove wall with the hardboard.
5. Fasten the hardboard using a brad nailer and 3/4-inch brads.

5. Finishing Touches

You’re almost ready to install your refrigerator. Here are the last few things you need to do: 

1. Install a piece of quarter-round molding along the top of the hardboard panel for a polished look.
2. Apply joint compound to the vertical edge of the wall where you removed the corner bead.
3. Once dry, sand the joint compound smooth.
4. Roll on one coat of primer followed by one topcoat of paint. Apply only one coat of paint to avoid losing the space you’ve gained.

Integrating carpentry details into the project will finalize the look and highlight the professional finish of the job. Essential details involve a thorough sanding of the joint compound and flush alignment of quarter-round molding to maintain the alcove’s broader but tightly-knit construction.

Clear all debris and dust — particularly around the refrigerator space — before relocating it back into the updated alcove.

Troubleshooting Common Refrigerator Space Issues

Even with careful planning, you may encounter some challenges during this project. Here’s how to address them.

Dealing with Obstructions

If you discover pipes, wires, or ductwork in the wall, consult a professional before proceeding. These elements may require relocation which is beyond the scope of a DIY project.

Adjusting for Uneven Walls

If your walls are uneven, you may need to use shims behind the hardboard to create a flat surface. This ensures your refrigerator will slide in smoothly.

Handling Tight Corners

In cases where the refrigerator barely fits through doorways or tight corners, remove the doors temporarily. Most refrigerator doors can be easily removed and reattached.

Ensuring Proper Ventilation

Making sure your refrigerator has adequate ventilation after repositioning it is key. Insufficient ventilation can lead to increased energy consumption and potential overheating. Refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for the necessary clearance around the appliance.

Addressing Flooring Issues

Your refrigerator’s weight can sometimes create indentations on certain types of flooring. Evaluate your flooring’s durability beforehand and consider placing protective mats or pads under the appliance to prevent any damage.

Maintaining Structural Integrity

While expanding the alcove, maintaining the structural integrity of nearby cabinetry and walls is critical. Avoid over-cutting or removing key supportive elements, which can compromise the stability of the surrounding structure.