Removing a tile backsplash can be a challenging DIY project, but with the right tools and techniques, it is possible to remove tile without too much hassle. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to remove tile backsplash in your kitchen or bathroom.
Understanding Tile Backsplashes
Before diving into removing a tile backsplash, it’s important to understand what a backsplash is and how tile is installed.
A backsplash is a vertical surface, usually in a kitchen or bathroom, that is designed to protect the walls from moisture, grease, food splatters, and other potential wall-damaging substances. Backsplashes are commonly made from ceramic, porcelain, or glass tile.
Tile backsplashes are installed on a substrate like cement board or drywall. The tiles are adhered to the substrate using a thinset mortar adhesive. The grout lines between the tiles are then filled with grout, which is a cement-based material that seals the joints between tiles.
Proper tile installation requires an even substrate, proper thinset coverage, straight tile alignment, and smooth grout lines. When installed correctly, tile backsplashes are very durable and resistant to damage.
Reasons for Removing a Tile Backsplash
There are a few common reasons you may need to remove an existing backsplash:
- Remodeling the Kitchen or Bathroom – When doing a full remodel, you will likely want to replace the existing backsplash with new tile or a different material. This requires removing the old tile.
- Damaged Tiles – Cracked, broken, or missing tiles can make a backsplash look unsightly. It’s often easier to remove and replace the entire backsplash rather than attempting to match and replace individual damaged tiles.
- Outdated Appearance – Tile styles come and go. You may want to remove an outdated or no longer desirable backsplash tile and replace it with something new and trendy.
- Incorrect Installation – An improperly installed backsplash with uneven tiles, grout lines, or other flaws may need to be torn out and re-tiled.
- Preparing Surfaces for New Backsplash – Sometimes it’s easier to remove the old backsplash completely before installing a new one, especially if you want a smooth surface under glass, metal, or other non-tile materials.
No matter the reason, removing tile backsplash can be accomplished with careful planning and the right techniques.
How to Remove Tile Backsplash
Removing an existing backsplash tile involves breaking the tile free from the substrate and scraping off any remaining thinset mortar or grout. Here is a step-by-step process:
Step 1: Prepare the Workspace
As with any major demolition project, proper preparation is key for a safe and successful tile removal process:
- Clear the area of any dishes, appliances, rugs, curtains or other items that could get damaged by falling tiles or debris.
- Cover nearby surfaces like countertops, floors, and walls with plastic sheeting or rosin paper secured with painter’s tape to protect from splatters and debris.
- Have a trash can, bucket, or wheelbarrow nearby to collect tile pieces and disposal.
- Wear safety goggles to protect eyes from debris. A dust mask is also recommended.
- Turn off electricity to any nearby outlets.
Step 2: Score the Grout Lines
Scoring the existing grout lines between tiles is an important first step. This is done by taking a utility knife and tracing along each grout line. Don’t try to cut all the way through the tiles, just deep enough to break the grout seal.
Scoring does two helpful things:
- Weakens the grout so tiles break away cleaner.
- Creates space to insert the pry bar in the next steps.
Be sure to score vertically and horizontally along both sides of each grout line. Take care not to scratch the underlying wall surface.
Step 3: Apply Removal Solution (Optional)
For particularly stubborn tile adhesive, consider applying a removal solution or solvent to help weaken the bond between the tiles and substrate.
Products like WD-40, mineral spirits, or commercial tile removal liquids can seep behind the tile and soften the adhesive. Apply a liberal amount directly to the grout lines and tile surfaces. Allow it to soak in for at least 15-20 minutes before prying.
Use caution with mineral spirits or solvents and work in a well-ventilated area.
Step 4: Pry Tiles Off Vertically
With the grout lines scored and removal solution applied (if used), it’s time to start prying the tiles off. Begin at the top of the backsplash and work downward row by row.
Insert a pry bar, old putty knife, or backsplash removal tool behind the uppermost tile, aligned with one of the horizontal grout lines. Apply slow, steady force until the tile pops free. Pry off the rest of that row before moving to the next rows below.
Be sure to wear leather gloves to protect hands from sharp edges and debris.
Go slowly to avoid damaging the wall behind the tiles. Try to pry each tile off in one piece if possible. Remove any stubborn broken pieces or shards still stuck to the adhesive.
Step 5: Pry Tiles Off Horizontally
Once most of the tiles are pried off vertically from top to bottom, switch to prying the remaining pieces horizontally, working from one side to the other.
You may need to use a hammer and chisel in addition to the pry bar for any stubborn areas where tiles won’t budge. Tap the chisel gently into the grout lines or tile edges and pry horizontally.
Continue this process until all tile pieces are fully removed from the wall.
Step 6: Clean and Scrape the Walls
With the tiles removed, examine the backsplash wall for any remaining thinset mortar, grout, or adhesive. Use a utility knife or chisel to scrape off as much as possible.
A thorough cleaning is also recommended using a mild abrasive pad or nylon scrub brush and a household cleaner or ammonia solution. This will prep the surface for new tile or backsplash material to properly adhere.
Be sure to smooth any uneven spots in the wall surface for a flat installation base. Fill any gouges with drywall joint compound.
Once cleaned, the backsplash is ready for your new tile, marble, metal, stone, or other material!
Tips for Easy Tile Removal
Here are some handy tips to employ for quick and easy tile backsplash removal:
- Always score all grout lines before attempting to pry tiles off.
- Apply removal solutions or solvents to soften adhesive if needed.
- Start prying from the top and go row by row working downward.
- Pry tiles vertically before switching to horizontal prying.
- Go slow and be patient if the tiles won’t pop off easily.
- Wear goggles and gloves for safety throughout the process.
- Have a chisel and hammer ready to chisel off stubborn tiles.
- Make smooth cuts on the drywall to prep surfaces for new backsplash.
- Dispose of tile debris and pieces carefully to avoid cuts.
With some perseverance and muscle, those outdated or damaged backsplash tiles will come off. Just take your time and use care not to harm walls or surrounding surfaces. Soon you’ll have a blank canvas ready for installing a fresh new backsplash!
FAQs About Removing Tile Backsplash
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about removing tile backsplashes:
How long does it take to remove a tile backsplash?
Removing an average sized tile backsplash of around 8-12 square feet could take 2-4 hours. Larger backsplashes with very stubborn tile adhesive could take 6 hours or longer.
What tools do I need to remove backsplash tile?
The essential tools are safety goggles, work gloves, a pry bar, putty knives or backsplash removal tools, a utility knife, chisel, hammer, and cleaning supplies like a nylon brush.
Should I try to save the backsplash tiles?
Unless the tiles are in good shape or a rare vintage find, it is usually not worth saving removed backsplash tile. They often crack or break during removal. New tile is fairly inexpensive.
How do I remove thinset mortar after tile removal?
Scraping and chiseling removes the bulk of the thinset mortar adhesive and grout. Warm water and scrubbing with an abrasive pad also helps remove residue. Solvents or chemical strippers can tackle any remaining tough spots.
Can I put new tile over existing backsplash?
It is not recommended to install new tile over an existing backsplash. Thinset mortar doesn’t adhere well to grout lines. It’s best to remove the old tile completely before installing new tile.
What if my tiles contain asbestos?
If you suspect asbestos, do NOT attempt to remove the tiles yourself. Contact an asbestos abatement company to handle removal and disposal safely and legally. Safety is paramount when asbestos is involved.
When to Call a Professional
Removing a backsplash tile is generally a DIY-friendly project for an experienced homeowner. However, there are some circumstances when it pays to call in a professional:
- The tile contains suspected asbestos – asbestos requires hazardous removal techniques.
- The tile installation has multiple layers – tearing out multiple layers is challenging.
- Severe mold or moisture damage is present behind tiles.
- The wall surface is damaged and requires extensive repairs.
- The area is exceptionally large or has intricate tile patterns.
- You simply don’t have the time or energy for a major backsplash demolition endeavor.
Tackling a straightforward tile removal job can save money over hiring help. But for complex backsplash projects, a professional can provide fast, efficient tile removal without the frustrations of DIY demolition.
Transforming Your Space with a New Backsplash
Removing an outdated or damaged tile backsplash provides a fresh start for creating a new focal point in your kitchen or bathroom.
Once the old tile is torn off, and adhesive residue removed, the wall awaits your creative new backsplash vision.
Why not go bold with intricate patterned mosaic tiles or sleek modern metallic sheets? Or keep things classic with subway brick or marble slab backsplash?
Maybe mix materials with a combination of tile and tin ceiling panels. The options are limitless!
Just be sure to enlist the services of an experienced installer to properly apply your new backsplash materials. Soon you’ll have a stunning transformed space!
So don’t dread that tile removal process. See it as an opportunity to give your backsplash and room a makeover. With the right know-how and a little perseverance, you can handle a DIY backsplash tile tear out successfully. Soon you’ll be ready to install the backsplash of your dreams!