Backsplash is a popular design element in many kitchens and bathrooms. It refers to the material applied to the wall behind sinks, stoves, and other fixtures. Common backsplash materials include ceramic tile, metal, glass, and stone. While backsplashes can provide an attractive, easy-to-clean surface, they can also be difficult to remove or replace. So is it hard to remove backsplash?
What Makes Removing Backsplash Difficult?
There are a few factors that contribute to making backsplash removal a potentially challenging project:
Adhesives Used for Installation
Backsplash tiles are adhered directly to the wall surface with mastic, thinset mortar, or construction adhesive. These heavy-duty adhesives form a strong, permanent bond. Trying to pry off individual tiles can damage the drywall behind. Solvents are needed to fully dissolve the old adhesive.
Type of Backsplash Material
Natural stone, glass, and metal backsplashes can be especially difficult to remove due to their weight and fragility. Ceramic tiles are comparatively easier to take down. But any backsplash with grout between tiles will take more effort to dismantle.
Accessibility Issues
Backsplashes are often installed in hard-to-reach areas behind sinks, stoves, and appliances. Limited workspace can make removal work quite awkward. Professional help may be needed to properly access and clear out the area.
Sheer Square Footage
Some backsplashes cover dozens or even hundreds of square feet of surface area. Dealing with large expanses of tile or stone backsplash translates to increased removal labor and costs.
Electrical and Plumbing
Kitchen and bath backsplashes frequently contain electrical outlets, switches, and plumbing that must be safely worked around. Proper precautions are needed to avoid hazardous contact with live wires or gas lines behind the backsplash.
Steps for DIY Backsplash Removal
Removing an existing backsplash is a messy, labor-intensive process. But with the right tools and techniques, it can be accomplished as a DIY project. Here are the basic steps:
1. Clear the Area
Remove everything from the counters and off the backsplash area. This includes appliances, fixtures, décor, cleaning supplies, etc. It’s impossible to work behind obstructions.
2. Protect Surfaces
Cover nearby floors, countertops, and cabinets with drop cloths. Wear safety goggles and gloves to prevent debris contact. Mask off any adjacent walls or areas not receiving new backsplash.
3. Score Grout Lines
Use a utility knife or oscillating tool to cut any existing grout lines between backsplash tiles. This will help break the backsplash free.
4. Apply Adhesive Solvent
Spray or brush solvent onto the backsplash adhesive, allowing time to penetrate and dissolve the bond. Reapply as needed until tiles loosen.
5. Start Removing Tiles
Use a pry bar or putty knife to carefully pop off tiles once the adhesive has been softened. Take it slow to avoid drywall damage. Remove nails if present.
6. Clean Off Old Adhesive
Thoroughly scrape away any remaining mastic or mortar from the wall surface once tiles are fully removed. A putty knife, scraper, or sandpaper may be used.
7. Make Any Repairs
Inspect the exposed wall and make repairs to holes, cracks, or uneven areas for a smooth base before installing new backsplash.
8. Prepare the Surface
Clean the bare wall well, then apply fresh thinset mortar or mastic to adhere the new backsplash tiles.
Following safety best practices while working slowly and methodically is key to successful DIY backsplash removal.
Professional Backsplash Removal
Given the complexities involved, many homeowners opt to hire a professional contractor for backsplash removal and replacement. Some benefits of professional help include:
- Correct tools and materials – Contractors have all the necessary pry bars, solvents, personal protective equipment, etc. to remove backsplash quickly and safely.
- Trained skills – Experienced contractors have the skills to efficiently demolish stubborn backsplash without damaging walls or plumbing fixtures. DIY mistakes could be costly.
- Proper disposal – Professionals can haul heavy materials like natural stone to the dump, which homeowners may not be equipped to handle.
- Install new product – Most contractors will not only remove the old backsplash but also install your new backsplash choice to complete the job.
- Save time and effort – Hiring out backsplash removal may be well worth the cost to avoid the hassles and maximize convenience for many homeowners.
Professional backsplash removal costs range from $5-$10 per square foot on average, with extra charges for landfill dumping fees. Get an itemized estimate in advance.
Can You Paint Over Existing Backsplash?
Rather than removing backsplash completely, some homeowners consider simply painting over the existing tile or other material. The ease of painting backsplash depends on the surface:
- Ceramic tile – Can be painted but requires extensive prep sanding to roughen the glossy surface so paint adheres. Grouting also must be sealed first.
- Natural stone – Difficult to adhere paint to smoothly. Irregular stone surfaces usually require resurfacing product before painting.
- Glass – Nearly impossible to paint due to ultra-smooth finish. Etching primer could be tried but results are poor. Best to replace glass backsplash instead.
- Metal – Can be painted if thoroughly cleaned and lightly sanded first, especially for corrosion-resistant metals like stainless steel. Some patina may still show through.
- Drywall – Existing drywall behind the backsplash can be prepped and painted easily as long as old adhesive is fully removed.
Overall, painting over backsplash does not produce as durable or attractive a result as replacing it. But painting costs less than complete removal and may suffice as a temporary facelift.
Tips for Easier Backsplash Removal
These handy tips can help streamline the process of dismantling existing backsplash:
- Break large sections into smaller pieces for easier handling and transport.
- Loosen stubborn tiles or stones by heating with a hair dryer before prying.
- Use painter’s tape to mask off outlet covers, fixtures, cabinet edges, etc. before removal work.
- number each tile and make a map of the original pattern before removing to assist with reinstallation.
- For glass backsplash, apply masking or painter’s tape before attempting to pry it off to prevent shattering.
- Work slowly and carefully around electrical and plumbing lines to avoid contact with any live wiring or gas connections.
- Wear knee pads and work gloves for extended comfort during floor-level removal work.
- Expect the process to generate dust, debris and power tool noise which may extend the project timeline.
Being strategic in the approach and methods used can help keep a backsplash removal and replacement project moving smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Removing Backsplash
Many homeowners beginning a backsplash removal project find themselves asking:
Is it cheaper to remove or replace backsplash?
If the existing backsplash is still in good condition apart from being dated or disliked, it may be cheaper to remove it carefully for reuse elsewhere rather than incurring costs to purchase all new tile. However, removal can still be labor intensive.
Can you remove backsplash without removing cabinets?
In many cases backsplash can be taken down without fully removing adjacent cabinets. Remove any caulk or sealant beads between countertop/cabinets and backsplash. Then work in the tight space to pry off backsplash carefully.
How do you remove adhesive from backsplash?
Scraping tools and sandpaper remove old adhesive residue. Solvents like acetone or adhesive remover help soften and dissolve mortar and mastic for easier removal from the wall surface. Avoid liquid removers damaging countertops.
How long does it take to remove tile backsplash?
An experienced DIYer may need 2-3 days for tile backsplash removal, including demolition, wall prep, and new tile installation. Contractors can often complete the process in 1-2 days. Size of the project impacts timeline.
What tools do I need to remove backsplash?
Helpful tools for DIY backsplash removal include pry bar, putty knives, utility knife, gloves, buckets, safety glasses, solvents, oscillating tool with scraping blade, painter’s tape, vacuum, and drop cloths.
Can I remove backsplash myself?
Non-professional DIYers can absolutely take on a backsplash removal project, granted they have the right tools and techniques. Going slowly and methodically is key. Some complex situations may warrant getting professional help.
Conclusion
Removing an existing backsplash in your kitchen or bathroom takes significant time and elbow grease. The type of material, square footage, accessibility, adhesives used, and your DIY skill level should factor into whether to tackle it yourself or hire professional help. In most cases, the old backsplash can be taken down successfully. Just be sure to first clear the countertops and protect nearby surfaces to contain the mess. Expect the process to generate dust, debris, and noise for the duration of the project. Arm yourself with the proper tools, safety gear, solvents, and removal tips outlined here to smooth the process. Soon you can say farewell to the outdated backsplash and hello to the fresh new one.