A Step by Step Guide to Removing Tile Floors

Before you start be sure you have these tools handy!

Step #1: Prepare the Room

Before you start hammering at a floor coated in tiles, you should take several simple steps to ensure you’re set up for success. Take the time to complete the following:

• Remove fixtures, furniture and all items that are in the way.
• Take off baseboard trim and label it to aid in the re-installation process.
• Seal vents with plastic and tape to block off dust particles.
• Gather all your gear together, including eye wear and gloves.

Step #2: Create a Starting Point

You have to start somewhere. That spot may be a place where tile is nonexistent like under a vanity or another fixture. If such a spot isn’t apparent, create a starting point in a corner of the room. From there, follow these steps:

• Use a chisel and hammer to break apart the first few tiles.
• Inspect the underneath of the floor to ensure there’s no damage.
• If necessary, use a pry bar to lift up tile that otherwise won’t move.

Step #3: Continue Removing Old Tile

It’s time for the real work to begin. Now that you’ve created a few feet of space to work with, use the hammer, chisel and pry bar combination to continue to remove tiles. As you continue to remove tiles, make sure you:

• Don’t use too much force. It may result in damage to the floor or personal injury.
• Carefully pick up tiles with a heavy broom and dustpan or a snow shovel.
• Have a bucket or another waste disposal option ready to dispose of the tiles.
• Consider purchasing or borrowing a pole scraper to reduce bending.

Step #4: Inspect the Underlayment

You’ve cleared the floor of tile. And while you’re approaching mile 24 of the the marathon, it’s not time to rejoice quite yet. It’s time to fully inspect your work. Do the following when fully scanning the floor:

• Check out the underlayment and mark gouges that need to be filled.
• Remove or pound in protruding nails and other similar items.
• Address all issues before installing the new floor.

Step #5: Dispose of Debris

The finish line is in sight. All you need to do is cleanup. Remaining dust and debris should be taken care of to the best of your ability. To get your room primed for a new floor, complete this list:

• Use a shop vacuum to get rid of the remaining dust and small particles.
• Clear the buckets of tile and all materials from the room.
• Consider renting a roll off dumpster for larger tile removal projects.

We hope we’ve made your tile removal process a bit easier! For any questions or dumpster rental needs feel free to give us a call at Waste Solutions 123!

Johnson, DJ. “How to Remove Tile Flooring.” The Fill. N.p., n.d. Web.