Backsplash is a popular design element in kitchens and bathrooms that serves both aesthetic and functional purposes. While beautiful, backsplashes can also be difficult to remove or replace. So is it easy to remove backsplash?
The ease of removing backsplash depends on a few key factors:
Material of the Backsplash
The material the backsplash is made of is the biggest determinant of how easy it will be to remove.
Tile Backsplash
Tile is one of the most common backsplash materials. Removing tile backsplash can be tedious and time consuming, but is doable as a DIY project. Here’s a quick overview of what’s involved:
- Remove any grout between the tiles using a grout saw or rotary tool. This is the most labor intensive step.
- Once the grout is removed, the tiles can be pried off the wall one by one using a putty knife or flat pry bar. Take care not to damage the drywall behind.
- Scrape off any remaining tile adhesive with a putty knife or scraper.
- Sand the wall smooth and clean up any residual debris.
- The drywall will need repairs and fresh paint where the tiles were removed.
So in summary, removing tile backsplash is not extremely difficult, but does require elbow grease and patience. Allow plenty of time for grout removal.
Stone or Brick Backsplash
Natural stone like granite, marble, or travertine is also commonly used for backsplash. Stone backsplash can be a bit trickier to remove since the pieces are heavier. Here are the steps:
- Use a grout saw or rotary tool to clear out the grout between stones. Take care not to scratch the surface of the stones.
- Carefully pry off each stone by getting underneath with a flat bar or putty knife. You may need a pry bar for larger pieces.
- Clean off any remaining thinset adhesive with a scraper.
- Make any necessary repairs to the drywall once the stone is removed.
Brick backsplash is removed the same way. Just be extra careful since brick is more prone to cracking and crumbling. Removing stone or brick backsplash is definitely doable DIY, but has some extra challenges versus tile.
Glass, Metal or Plastic Backsplashes
Backsplashes made of glass, metal, plastic or other non-porous materials are typically installed in sheets rather than individual tiles. This makes removal much quicker and easier. Here’s how to remove:
- Use a utility knife to score around the edges of the backsplash sheets and cut through any caulk or adhesive.
- Slowly pry up one corner and work the sheet loose. Go slow to avoid cracking glass.
- Scrape off any residual adhesive with a paint scraper or putty knife.
- Clean the wall surface thoroughly once the panels are down.
These non-porous backsplash materials come off relatively easily compared to tile or stone. Just take care not to break the glass or scratch the walls.
Method of Installation
In addition to material, the way the backsplash was originally installed also determines the removal difficulty.
Backsplash Adhered Directly to Drywall
If the backsplash tiles or panels were glued right onto the drywall with mastic, scraping off the adhesive is straightforward. Any damage to the drywall itself would be minimal.
However, if the backsplash was set into a mortar bed rather than directly adhered, removing it gets more challenging. Chiseling out all the hardened mortar takes quite a bit of effort.
And if the backsplash was part of a full wet wall installation (like around a tub or shower), removing it could mean tearing out multiple layers like mortar, waterproofing membrane and cement board.
Backsplash on Cement Board
Many tile backsplashes are installed over cement backer board rather than directly on the wall. This provides an extremely durable surface that holds up to moisture.
But removing backsplash from cement board adds steps:
- Chisel away at the cement board with a hammer and chisel to break it into pieces
- Pry off the pieces and scrape away any remaining Thinset
- Grind down any remnants of the cement board with an angle grinder
Dealing with cement board is tedious, dusty work. The upside is that the drywall underneath remains generally unharmed.
So in summary, backsplashes that were simply glued to the wall are much easier to remove vs. those installed over cement board or with mortar.
Location and Scope of the Backsplash
Is the backsplash contained just behind a stove or does it wrap around the entire perimeter of the room? Backsplashes that cover more surface area naturally take longer to demolish.
Also consider the location. Removing backsplash near cabinets, countertops or plumbing fixtures involves extra care not to damage those elements.
In general, small contained backsplash areas are quicker and simpler to remove than large expansive ones.
Hiring a Pro vs. DIY Removal
After considering those factors – backsplash material, installation method and scope of the project – assess your own skill level and tools.
Removing backsplash has some universal DIY steps like prying off tiles, scraping adhesive, etc. But certain scenarios call for more specialized techniques.
For example, grinding down cement board or thoroughly chiseling out mortar are tough jobs. Renting or buying the necessary power tools represents an added expense.
Hiring a professional to remove the backsplash may be advisable in any of these instances:
- The material is natural stone, which is dense, heavy and prone to cracking.
- It was installed over cement board or with a mortar bed.
- The area covers multiple walls or rooms.
- You don’t own power tools like a rotary hammer or oscillating tool.
- Making repairs to the wall afterwards would be too complex DIY.
Pros have specialized tools and expertise to remove backsplash efficiently while minimizing wall damage. Leaving it to the experts saves considerable time and frustration.
On the other hand, DIY removal might make sense if:
- The backsplash is simple sheet glass or plastic.
- It’s contained to a small area like behind a stove.
- You’re willing to invest time and energy into the demolition.
- Repairing the drywall afterwards seems manageable.
In summary, while it is possible for a motivated DIYer to remove their own backsplash, larger projects with stone material or cement board warrant consideration of hiring a professional.
What About Asbestos?
Here’s one final critical consideration – the possibility of asbestos. Asbestos was once commonly used in certain backsplash and construction materials.
Breathing in asbestos fibres is extremely hazardous to health. So the material must be handled and disposed of very carefully.
Have any backsplash dating pre-1980s tested for asbestos. And if found, hire certified asbestos abatement pros for the removal. Attempting DIY could be unsafe.
Dealing with asbestos represents the biggest reason to get help removing outdated backsplash rather than going the DIY route. Safety should be the #1 priority.
Step-by-Step DIY Backsplash Removal
If after assessing all those factors you determine DIY removal is the right choice, here is a step-by-step guide:
Supplies Needed
- Grout saw, oscillating tool or rotary tool (for grout removal)
- Putty knives and flat pry bar
- Hammer and chisel (for mortar or cement board)
- Paint scraper and putty knife (for adhesive removal)
- Utility knife and caulk removing tool
- Eye protection, gloves, mask
- Drop cloths
- Drywall repair compound, sandpaper, paint etc.
Step 1 – Prep the Area
Clear cabinets, countertops and anything else below the backsplash. Cover appliances and surfaces with drop cloths to protect from dust and debris. Have a trash bag ready.
Step 2 – Remove Grout
Use a grout removal tool, oscillating tool or rotary tool to clear out all the grout between tiles or stones. Take it slow to avoid damaging the materials. Thorough grout removal is key.
Step 3 – Detach Backsplash Pieces
Once grout is gone, carefully pry off each tile or backsplash piece with a putty knife or pry bar. You may need to gently tap with a hammer if they don’t release easily. Stack pieces neatly for potential reuse.
Step 4 – Remove Any Adhesive
Use a paint scraper or putty knife to gently scrape off any remaining backsplash mastic or thinset mortar. Aim to get the wall as smooth as possible.
Step 5 – Repair and Refinish the Wall
With the backsplash fully removed, assess wall damage. Use drywall compound and tape on any holes or cracks. Sand smooth when dry. Clean the area fully and apply fresh paint.
Step 6 – Consider Backsplash Replacement
Is the goal a fresh new backsplash? Carefully measure the space and start shopping for tile, panels or other materials when wall prep is complete.
Follow good installation practices, like using cement board rather than direct application to drywall. Take time to properly apply new grout and caulk for a finished look.
Once all debris is cleared and the wall looks fresh, the new backsplash can truly transform the space!
FAQs
What tools do I need to remove a backsplash?
A grout saw, putty knives, a pry bar, scraper, gloves, eye protection and a hammer and chisel (for mortar) are essential basic backsplash removal tools. Power tools like an oscillating multi-tool also help.
How do I remove thick mortar behind a backsplash?
Thick mortar beds require chiseling out small sections at a time. Use a hammer and wide cold chisel to carefully break up the mortar. Take precautions not to damage the wall. Removing thick mortar is laborious.
Can I reuse backsplash tile?
Sometimes yes, with proper prying technique. But reused backsplash tile may need new adhesive. Matching grout color later can also be tricky. Used tile works best for small accent walls or mosaics rather than a whole kitchen.
What’s the easiest backsplash to remove?
Sheet glass, plastic or metal backsplashes are the easiest to pry off in sheets after cutting caulk. Tile and stone are more tedious. Easiest is also defined by limited area – a contained backsplash versus full room.
How do I repair drywall after removing backsplash?
Damage to drywall after backsplash removal can be patched with joint compound and tape once the surface is smooth. Prime and paint repaired areas to match the wall. Severe water damage may need actual drywall replacement.
Conclusion
Removing existing backsplash typically requires time and effort, particularly with tile. Natural stone and cement board also pose challenges versus simply prying off glass or plastic sheets.
Carefully consider the backsplash material, installation method and layout before deciding between DIY and hiring a professional. Any possibility of asbestos must be properly addressed.
With some perseverance, right tools and safety precautions, skilled DIYers can tackle their own backsplash removal and wall restoration process. But for large or complex jobs, the experts may be the wise choice.
Thorough planning paves the way for success whether you DIY or outsource backsplash demolition. With the outdated backsplash gone, an exciting new one can take its place.