Easy removal of granite backsplash?

Question

I'm planning on installing my own subway tile backsplash in our kitchen. We have black granite countertops, with a four inch granite backsplash throughout. I want to remove the existing backsplash so that the subway tile will go all the way down to the countertops.

What is the best method to remove the backsplash to not cause any damage to the countertops? I'd love to hear from someone that has done this before. Is it pretty straightforward, or am I getting myself into a project better left to a pro?

William · Answer

The backsplash is more likely glued to the wall. Cover the counter with paper, newspaper, cardboard. Use painters tape close to the corner of the counter and backsplash. Use a razor box knife and slowly cut the caulk in the corner and top of backsplash. Use a stiff putty knife and gently pry the backslash away from the wall. There will be some wall damage that you can patch with drywall patching compound. Sand smooth, prime, and glue on the subway tile. Please post your project when you do it.

Gau22339224 · Answer

I have one of these for removing trim : http://www.leevalley.com/en/wood/page.aspx?cat=1,43456,43399&p=74898. Might help peel the granite from the wall.

Thomas · Answer

Thanks for the tip. Looks like a great tool for the job.

Gau22339224 · Answer

It works very well for trim, and this looks like a good secondary use. It is fairly thick metal too, so I think it will be up to the job.

Cncnc · Answer

We removed our 4' granite using a method like William commented. We slowly and as gently as we could used a mallet to hammer a thin chisel behind the granite and pried a little at a time and it came off so much easier then we anticipated. I am so happy I insisted we take it off!

Thomas · Answer

Thanks for sharing your experience. The finished tiling in your kitchen looks great!

I successfully removed my 4' backsplash using the same method. It was easier than I expected, but next time I would probably invest in the tool Gauder4 suggested. I had some significant damage to the drywall in a couple of spots, which made for more repair than I would have liked.

Tiles are on order now, so next comes the fun part.

Nor33809173 · Answer

Looks beautifully done so do not touch it is my advice. Those electrical outlet in the middle of the tile pattern won't look great either. Sorry to dampen your enthousiasm

Dianne Stinson · Answer

Did you have any trouble removing the piece behind the faucet? Mine has a seam behind the faucet and I’m not sure what problem that will create

Elisabeth Mackey · Answer

Beautiful job! Looks so nicely updated!!

Easy removal of granite backsplash?

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