Remove Single Tile From Wall

Tiles installed with thinset or another tile adhesive often require more work to remove them.

Remove single tile from wall.

Cut away the grout surrounding the tile or tiles that you want to remove. Score the old tile. To remove wall tiles start by heating up the grout between the tiles with a blow dryer so it s easier to remove. Set in the replacement tile.

Remove the old mortar. Start at the corners and work your way toward the middle and wall stud. Work slowly and at about a 45 degree angle. When you believe you have removed or cut away most of the grout stop and examine your work.

Place the chisel just under the tile and use the hammer with quick taps to pop the piece loose. In this case your first step is to remove the grout surrounding the tile using a rotary tool a thin chisel or a grout removing tool. In some cases the only way to tear out the ceramic tile is with heavy equipment such as a jackhammer or air chisel. Once those tiles loosen pry them off.

A metal chisel and hammer can make quick work of popping tiles cleanly away from the wall. Break up the old tile. Use a ball peen or masonry hammer and cold chisel to tap the pieces free. Position the tip of a nail set against the tile at the cracked or chipped area.

Move the nail set. You should be able to slide a putty or plaster knife underneath the tile. Always wear safety glasses when removing ceramic tile. When removing the old adhesive using a hot air heat gun to weaken a small area at a time can reduce the chance of the wall becoming damaged.

Be sure to use an adhesive that is suitable for your wall surface. Removing tiles on concrete board. A wide blade putty knife is helpful in prying the tiles loose. If you are removing a wall tile then lay heavy duty protective sheeting onto the surrounding floor to prevent any damage.

Next use a chisel and hammer to pry the tiles off of the wall. As the tiles fall they can take out tiles below or loosen leftover grout and tile as you go. Be careful to cut away only the grout and not into the wall. Then use a utility knife or rotary grinder to scrape away the grout until the spacer lugs between the tiles are visible.