How to remove floor tiles from a backslash?

I bought a house where someone used stick=on floor tiles for the backsplash in the kitchen. What is the best way to remove them and repair any damage to the drywall? I have not decided I am thinking of replacing with textured wall paper.

  7 answers
  • Just Retired Just Retired on Jul 13, 2017

    If they are stick on try to get under the edge with a putty knife and gently lift it to pull it off. You will need spackling compound to fill in scratches or holes from removing them. Then send well to blend all the compound in so you don't see any edges. Then you can paint or wall paper. If you do go with wall paper be sure to size the wall first so if/when you want to remove the wallpaper it comes off easily.

  • Rene' Giles McKnight Rene' Giles McKnight on Jul 13, 2017

    Use hairdryer to try to melt adhesive to loosen.

  • Linda Linda on Jul 13, 2017

    Try a lo dryer to soften the adhesive.

  • Linda Linda on Jul 13, 2017

    *blow dryer*.

  • William William on Jul 13, 2017

    Use a blow dryer to soften the adhesive and peel them off slowly. Drywall spackling compound to fill in any damage. Goo Gone to remove any adhesive residue.

  • Suzette Suzette on Jul 13, 2017

    Hi Connie, Try using a blow dryer to soften the adhesive. When it's heated enough, gently pull them off by the corner. If it's still sticky in spots, just heat it up again!


    Hope this helps!

  • Annie Annie on Jul 13, 2017

    just had this problem in a basement bathroom. Of course there's no way of knowing what the condition of the wall behind the tiles is. You've got to just go for it. A heat gun might be the most useful initial tool to try. In my case they came off quite easily with minimal damage behind the tiles. Heat each one and use a stiff large scraper to pry off. The wall behind might need some spackle work to even things out. I'd urge you to reconsider the wall paper. Backsplashes get greasy and you might end up facing a new problem in a year or so. Bead board is a good solution if you want to do it yourself. Home Depot sells tongue and groove kits in pre-cut 4 ft lengths. Super easy to work with, just finish nails and construction adhesive. Then prime and paint with a washable paint, semi or full gloss. You'll need to finish the juncture when the boards meet the countertop. Good luck!