Removing soffits

Question from Judy:

I am having my kitchen remodeled by a contractor. To try to curb costs, there a few things I want to do myself. I want to remove the soffits, two are on walls, and the third is a peninsula soffit. I will also be removing the flooring. I know there is electrical in the soffit over the sink. There shouldn't be any electrical or plumbing in the others. The house was built in the 50s. What am I likely to find under the soffits? Also, should I remove the flooring before or after the cabinets are removed? It is a floating floor over original flooring.

Jake's answer:

Judy,

I hope you enjoy your time with the hammer and crowbar.  I know it can be rewarding when participating in your own remodeling project.  You will definitely have some sweat equity in the finished product. 

When removing soffits we have found electrical wiring, pluming pipes, heat ducts, attic insulation that has spilled down and a few beer cans too.  To determine if you will run into any of these items, it might take a trained eye to help you inspect the area. 

Since the floor is a floating type and was installed over the original floor, it probably does not go under the cabinets.  In which case, you can remove the floor either before or after the cabinets come out – which ever you find easier.