How to remove wall tiles without breaking them?
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Sometimes you may need to remove wall tiles from a bathroom or other space without damaging them; for example, if you return tiles, replace them or resell them. | |
While it's nearly impossible to remove 100% of the tiles from a wall without breaking a single one, following these instructions will help you keep most of the removed tiles. | |
However, there is no guarantee here; depending on the base used to secure the tile to the wall and the quality of the tile, it may be more difficult for you to remove it without damaging it. | |
Please note that while this guide will help you avoid damaging the tile, the backing underneath will be damaged and must be repaired or replaced before reuse. | |
What else do you need? | |
Hammer | |
Utility knife | |
A tool for cutting mortar, such as a mortar saw or scraper. | |
Large piece of cardboardoptional) | |
Walkthrough of Wonka | |
Tips1. Start at the outer edge of the tile area and work your way inward. | |
2. Place a large piece of cardboard at the base of the wall to catch falling tiles (or tile pieces). This will make cleaning much easier and prevent damage to the tiles that will fall untouched. | |
Step 1 - Cut the groutUsing a grout saw or similar tool, cut the grout off the right and bottom sides of the tile. To do this, press the blade into the grout (in the gap between the tiles) and use a back and forth motion to cut. If the grout is not cut before the tile is removed, you risk damaging adjacent tiles when you lift it. | |
Step 2 - Cut out the sealant and paintUse your utility knife to cut through the caulk and paint the left side of the tile. If possible, use already dull blades rather than new sharp blades; this task will dull sharp blades very quickly. | |
Step 3 - Insert the clawInsert the straight foot of the molding bar under the left edge of the tile and gently push it inward. | |
Step 4 - Hit the rod with a hammer.Gently tap the heel of the rod with a hammer to push it deeper under the tile. | |
Step 5 - Remove TileAt this point, the tile should just bounce off. If not, apply slight pressure on the end of the rod until it clicks. |