Steps For Stripped Tile Removal

After years of use, a tile floor can lose its sheen and need to be stripped. If this is the case, it is important to know the proper process for doing so.

Start by locating a point to begin removing tile, such as a rough edge or the space where a semi-permanent fixture (such as a toilet) was installed. You can then begin removing tiles with a long-handled floor scraper or air hammer with chisel set, alternating between the two as you get closer to walls and cabinets.

Start with the Right Tools

You’ll need to start with the proper tools for your stripped tile removal project. Depending on the size of your room, you can use either a long-handled floor scraper or an air hammer with a chisel set. It’s best to work on a flat section of the floor where you can easily reach with your long-handled tool.

It’s important to wear protective gear such as goggles, gloves, and a face mask during the stripping process. This will protect you from dust particles that can cause breathing problems such as COPD, asthma, and silicosis.

When you’re ready to begin, wedge the breaker blade underneath a tile and slowly apply pressure. Ensure that the blade is the correct type for your project and change it as needed. Using too much force can result in breaking the tile or damaging the underlayment. As you remove the tiles, keep the debris in a bucket. This will make it easier to haul away later on.

Break Up the Tile

Depending on how the floor was installed, you may need to break up the tile before it can be removed. This can be difficult if the tiles are stuck to a layer of underlayment, like plywood or cement, and not directly onto the subfloor.

You can try working a pry bar underneath the edge of the tile to see if it comes up in pieces, but you may need to use a chisel and hammer to get the job done. Keep in mind that this will take some time and effort, but if you want to save the tiles, it’s worth the work.

To save yourself some time, consider using a power tool like a hammer drill with a chisel attachment to break up the tile and remove it from the floor. Be sure to wear safety glasses and durable gloves while using any kind of power tool. Make sure you have a large garbage can nearby to throw away small fragments and dust as you work.

Remove the Adhesive

During the stripping process, the floor and walls will be covered in bits of tile, cement and mastic. These need to be removed to ensure the subfloor is ready for a new flooring material such as hardwood or concrete. This is typically done with a hammer and chisel or a floor scraper.

If the tile was placed over a solid mortar base or concrete slab, then using a drill with a specialized tile bit may simplify the job. This is especially helpful if you’re not able to break up the tiles with a hammer and chisel.

To remove the remaining adhesive, a pry bar or putty knife can be used. It’s also recommended to wear gloves and protective goggles. This process will create a lot of dust, so it’s important to seal off vents in the room before beginning. This will prevent the dust from blowing throughout your home or business. The best way to get rid of this dust is to use a concrete grinder with a vacuum attached.

Clean Up

After all that stripping, the floor will likely be covered in debris and dust. It is essential to have a good plan for cleaning it all up. Start by moving all free-standing furniture out of the room. This will make clean up much faster.

Next, remove any loose tiles with a putty knife or painter’s tool to avoid scratching. If any tiles are cracked and still attached, use a hammer to break them into smaller pieces. Once all the tile has been removed, place it in heavy-duty plastic bags and label it. Make sure that the bags are sealed shut and that you dispose of them according to local laws and regulations.

Remember to wear a mask while you are working with the debris and dust. It contains crystalline silica and can cause serious lung damage. You also need to put down drop cloths to prevent dust from settling on anything in the room. After the dust is cleared, clean up your workspace with a vacuum cleaner and a broom.

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