How to Remove Backsplash Tile

8 Materials
$25
1 Day
Easy

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Are you getting ready to do a new kitchen backsplash, but need to do some tile removal first? In this post, we’ll walk you through the basics how to remove tile backsplash and prep your area to install a new kitchen tile backsplash.


If you are installing a tile backsplash in your kitchen, there’s a good chance that you’re going to have to remove the old tile first.

1) Prep your area and remove light stwitches.

- Clear counter top and sinks. Cover up everything with before you get started. Have a trash can near that you can toss the tiles into. Wear gloves and safety glasses always!

2) Start removing tiles.

- With everything protected, it is time to do the tile removal. Tile will generally “pop off” if you can get behind it from the side with your Wonder Bar. 

3) Scrape your walls. When the tiles are removed, remove the mortar and mastic on the wall as well. Take your wall scraper and hammer and just start going to town to get the rest off. 


Flatten your surface. Remove any high points you may have as it is essential when installing your tile.

That’s it! There isn’t a lot to tile removal, but it is labor intensive work.


Even if you’re not going to be tackling the new tile installation yourself and you’re hiring that part out – you can still save a ton of money by doing the demo and removal of the tile yourself. It is definitely an easy DIY project for even a beginner to tackle because you don’t need much experience or access to many tools. 


If you love these kitchen subway tile backsplash installation tips and want to learn more like it, be sure to check out all of my DIY tutorials in the archives here!

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Chelsea @ Making Manzanita
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