How To Remove Bathroom Tile

By: Sandy Baird

Break Studios Contributing Writer

Figuring out how to remove bathroom tile can be tricky. When trying to remove bathroom tile, large chunks of the wall behind the tile will come apart, too. It can be easier to remove the entire wall down to the studs and replace the drywall instead of trying to remove only the bathroom tile. 

To remove bathroom tile, you will need:

 

  • Grout remover
  • Grout saw
  • Putty knife
  • Hammer
  • Flat head screw driver
  • Safety goggles
  • Masking tape
  • Wire brush
  1. Clear the area. Remove any objects that are near the area of the bathroom tile you need to remove. If you are just removing broken bathroom tiles, you will only need to remove the items close to that area. If you are removing all of the bathroom tile, you will want to clear the entire bathroom. This could include the toilet, vanity or other fixtures.
  2. Prepare the tiles. If you are only removing broken tiles, tape the surrounding tiles to prevent them from getting damaged in the removal. Obviously, the tape will not protect them from being broken, but it can protect the surrounding tile from being scratched by the tools.
  3. Tile removal. Start removing your broken tile by first removing the grout. Start with the grout removal tool. If this doesn’t work, try the grout saw. Then take the putty knife or screwdriver and try sliding and wiggling it behind the broken tile. Lightly tape the tool with a hammer if necessary. If you are removing all the tile, find the easiest area to start. Generally, this will be at the top of the tile wall or where the grout is missing. Continue removing the tile until the job is complete.
  4. Clean up. Be careful during clean up. Broken tiles are sharp. Pick up the large pieces and sweep the rest into a dust pan. 
Posted on: Aug. 29, 2010