How to Remove Ceramic Tile From Walls? 

If you have a bathroom or kitchen that has dreary old tile, it’s time to get rid of it and breathe some new life into the space. It’s an inexpensive way to transform a room, and it can give you a sense of accomplishment. 

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Ceramic tile is a great choice for most homes because it’s durable and easy to clean, but over time, it can become outdated. When that happens, you may need to remove the tile to make it possible to install new flooring. 

To get the best results, you should start by removing any broken tiles and then preparing the surfaces where the new floor will go. This can include cleaning the grout and removing any adhesive residue that might be left behind. 

Before removing the old tile, it’s a good idea to take a look at the plaster walls. If the wall has any cracks or gaps, they’ll need to be filled with putty and sanded down before you can lay the new tile. 

When removing the ceramic tile, use a hammer and chisel to break up the tiles into pieces that you can easily pry away from the wall. Be sure to wear a dust mask, safety glasses, and heavy-duty work gloves when demolishing the tile. The hammering and chiseling action can kick up shards of broken tile or mortar that could be dangerous to your eyes. 

Another option for removing the ceramic tile is to break it into smaller sections, which you can then pry away with a tool called a pry bar. This type of tool typically features a chunky steel design that makes it very strong and sturdy, and you can even use it like a chisel by pointing the edge under the tile and hitting the bar with a hammer. 

Once you’ve broken up the tiles, you should then use a scraper to remove any remaining glue or mortar residue that might be stuck to the wall. These can include remnants of thinset or mastic, the two most common wall tile adhesives. 

You should also try to get rid of any spacer lugs that might be left in the gap between the tiles and the wall. These metal objects are not necessary for the installation of a new tile, but they can be a nuisance if you want to move them. 

Then, simply begin removing the rest of the tile from the wall. Working from the top-left corner of the tiled area, move down the wall to the right as you remove each individual tile. Keep a steady pace and work slowly to avoid damaging the plaster or other surfaces. 

For the best results, you should work with a large project crew to help with the removal of the tile. This can help you complete the job faster and more efficiently, and it will ensure that everyone is well-prepared for the work ahead. 

In addition to the tools mentioned above, you will need a trash bin and several garbage bags. A shop vac or broom can also come in handy for gathering up the debris. You should also wear safety gear, including knee pads and earplugs when using power tools.