Introduction
Installing a tile backsplash in your kitchen or bathroom can add visual interest and make the space look more polished. However, sometimes you may decide to remove or replace an existing backsplash. Trimming out a tile backsplash involves removing the tiles and underlying materials so you’re left with a clean surface for installing a new backsplash or simply leaving the wall bare. This process requires some tile removal tools, safety equipment, and patience, but it can be a doable DIY project.
Step-by-Step Guide
Supplies Needed
Before starting demo on your tile backsplash, gather the necessary supplies:
- Safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris
- Dust mask to prevent inhaling tile dust
- Work gloves to protect your hands
- Pry bar for removing tiles
- Hammer for tapping the pry bar
- Putty knife for scraping off adhesive
- Utility knife for scoring grout lines
- Bucket for collecting tile pieces
- Shop vacuum to clean up tile dust and debris
Prepare the Workspace
Protecting the rest of the kitchen or bathroom during a tile removal project prevents damage. Follow these tips:
- Clear countertops and remove anything breakable from the backsplash area.
- Cover countertops, appliances, and floors with drop cloths.
- Turn off electricity running to any outlets you’ll be working around.
- Have a fire extinguisher on hand in case you strike hidden wiring.
- Set up a step stool or ladder if needed to reach entire backsplash area.
Remove Backsplash Tiles
With your safety gear on and workspace prepped, you’re ready to start removing tiles:
- Use a utility knife to score all grout lines surrounding each tile. This frees them up for easier removal.
- Begin prying off tiles by inserting the flat pry bar into grout lines and gently twisting. Apply pressure to pop each tile off.
- Wear work gloves and use a rag to protect your hands as you pull tiles off by hand once loosened up.
- A hammer can help tap the pry bar further under stubborn tiles. Take care not to damage the drywall behind.
- Deposit removed tile pieces into a bucket to transport to the trash.
- Check for any remaining sharp tile edges or stubborn grout left on the wall and scrape off.
Remove Adhesive and Backing
After all tiles are pried off, you’ll still have adhesive and tile backing stuck to the wall. Taking this layer down requires some extra work:
- Use the pry bar, putty knife, or a paint scraper tool to peel off any mesh backing or fiberglass sheets.
- Apply a liquid adhesive remover product to any remaining thinset mortar adhesive on the wall, allowing it time to soften the material.
- Once softened, scrape and chip away at the adhesive with your putty knife or scraper tool. Use an up-and-down motion to remove bits until only bare drywall remains.
- For especially thick tile mastic that won’t budge, a multi-tool oscillator with scraper attachment can remove adhesive effectively.
- Take safety precautions when using power tools and liquid chemicals for adhesive removal. Wear eye protection, solvent-safe gloves, and turn on exhaust fans.
Clean the Surface
As a final step, thoroughly clean and prep the wall for whatever comes next:
- Use a shop vacuum to clean up all debris, dust, and loose material from the wall and surrounding workspace.
- Wipe the wall down with a damp sponge or cloth to remove residual dried adhesive.
- Fill any gouges or uneven drywall patches with joint compound for a smooth finish. Lightly sand once dry.
- Carefully pry out any remaining grout from the edges and corners with a small flathead screwdriver.
- Once totally clean and dry, the surface is ready for a fresh coat of paint, new backsplash, or to remain an exposed accent wall.
FAQ
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about removing and trimming out a tile backsplash:
Should I hire a contractor to remove backsplash tile?
Removing tile backsplash is a project a skilled DIYer can usually handle themselves. The demolition process mainly involves simple manual labor. However, if you’re unsure about safely handling electrical, plumbing, or gas lines behind the wall, it may be wise to hire a professional.
What tools do I need to take down a tile backsplash?
A pry bar, hammer, utility knife, putty knife, gloves, safety glasses, and a vacuum are the essential tools. You may also need a multi-tool, oscillating scraper, or adhesive remover if dealing with thick mastic.
How do I remove mortar adhesive after taking tiles off?
Adhesive remover chemicals or oscillating power scraper tools are the best way to remove stubborn thinset mortar residue after tile demo. Let the remover sit for 15-30 minutes before scraping. Take safety precautions.
Can I put new tile over existing backsplash?
It’s not recommended to install new tiles over an old backsplash. Irregularities in the existing wall and tile can lead to poor adherence of new tiles. It’s best to remove the old backsplash completely before retiling.
How can I patch holes or damage in drywall after removing backsplash?
Use drywall joint compound to fill any gouges, cracks, or uneven holes after taking down backsplash tile. Apply in thin coats, drying and sanding between applications for a smooth finish. Primer and paint will also conceal imperfections.
What kind of backsplash can I do after removing tile?
Once backsplash tile is removed, you have options: install a new tile backsplash, use backsplash panels or tin backsplashes, paint the wall, or leave it as an exposed brick or concrete block accent wall. Get creative!
Removing Glass, Metal, or Stone Tile Backsplashes
Tile backsplashes come in a variety of materials beyond basic ceramic or porcelain. Glass, metal, and stone tile have unique removal considerations.
How to Remove Glass Tile Backsplash
Glass mosaic tiles have a stunning look but can be tedious to remove. Follow these tips:
- Wear eye protection and thick gloves – glass tiles have sharp edges.
- Use a hammer and chisel to carefully chip away at grout holding tiles on the mesh sheet.
- Peel the mesh off the wall once tiles are freed. Adhesive behind may need scraping.
- Take extra care not to shatter glass tiles and shards. Keep a shop vacuum running.
Removing Metal Tile Backsplashes
Metal backsplash tiles like tin, stainless steel, or aluminum have a high-end look. Removing them requires caution:
- Use eye and hand protection when prying off sharp metal tiles.
- Bend metal sheets carefully without creasing to avoid cutting hazards.
- Check for hidden screws or special adhesives used to install metal backsplashes.
- Use an adhesive remover safe for metal if needed to dissolve stubborn mastic.
Taking Down Stone Tile Backsplashes
Natural stone materials like marble, granite, or slate make elegant backsplashes. Their removal process involves:
- Marking exact tile locations first for potential reinstallation.
- Starting tile removal from top row and working down to avoid falling pieces.
- Taking extra care with fragile natural stone materials so they don’t crack or shatter.
- Having thick gloves and eye protection for dealing with jagged edges.
- Using a special stone adhesive remover or solvent to clear residue off the wall.
Hiring a Professional
Removing a tile backsplash takes time, physical effort, and the risk of damaging walls or tiles. Many homeowners opt to hire a professional contractor for the demolition. Here’s what to expect:
Benefits of Hiring Tile Removal Help
- Experienced with proper safety techniques for hazardous electrical, gas, or plumbing
- Access to commercial-grade tile removal tools to speed up process
- Ability to safely dispose of heavy tile debris
- Knowledge of how to prep the wall for new backsplash installation
- Insured in case of accidental wall damage or injuries
What to Ask Prospective Contractors
- Are they licensed, bonded, and insured?
- Can they provide references from past backsplash removal jobs?
- Will they handle tile debris haul-away and wall prep?
- Is an itemized estimate of all removal costs available?
- Is there assurance no damage will occur to surrounding surfaces?
Thoroughly vet any tile removal contractors before hiring. While hiring a pro costs more upfront, it can give peace of mind and convenience when taking out a tricky existing backsplash.
Conclusion
Removing an outdated or damaged tile backsplash takes some work, but it opens up new possibilities for refreshing the space. Now you can install a backsplash design that suits your current style. Just take all necessary safety precautions during the demolition process. Tile removal can kick up harmful silica dust particles, so containment and proper PPE are a must.
With the right tools, patience, and prep, trimming out an existing kitchen or bathroom backsplash tile is a manageable DIY project for many homeowners. Or, hiring a professional installer experienced in safe tile removal may be worth the cost if you’re unsure about taking on such a messy, labor-intensive process. In no time, you’ll have a smooth, clean slate ready for a stunning new backsplash.