12+ How to Remove Backsplash Tile
ID# 181801 – Product BA62046 – Glossy White Glass & Marble Diamond Mosaic Tile
Gray and White Cabinets with White Full-height Backsplash
If you want to remove your old backsplash tile and give your kitchen a light and airy feel, a white backsplash is the way to go! Being versatile and timeless, a white backsplash can easily be a great companion for any kitchen. In this transitional kitchen, for example, the white ceiling height backsplash shines like a diamond with its glossy finish and instantly elevates this otherwise ordinary gray and white kitchen. While the black accents and stainless steel appliances enhance the modern flair, the dark wood floor brings much-needed warmth to the space.
ID# 181807 – Product BA6705 – White Shell & Crackle Glass Mosaic Backsplash Tile
Light Gray Cabinets with White Glass Mosaic Backsplash Tile
If you can not give up the classics but want to make a modern spin, this white glass mosaic tile backsplash is the right choice for you! Even though this mosaic consists of tiny chips that mostly refer to a traditional style, the clean and sleek lines, and the white color give it a modern flair. The white Silestone quartz countertops are flawless options to complete the light and airy feel of the mosaic tiles. The light gray cabinets add a slight contrast without breaking the spaciousness.
How to Remove Backsplash Tile?
Kitchen backsplashes are essential elements that can both serve as functional and visual. However, over time it may lose its fresh and clean appearance or you may be bored with old tiles and want to replace them. There might be a lot of reasons to remove your backsplash and replacing the tiles is a perfect way to give a fresh look to your kitchen. But can you remove tiles without damaging the drywall? Yes, you can! While it is not an easy job, you can do it right by moving step by step. In this article, we gather some tips and tricks about how to remove backsplash tile with basic steps.
It may be a challenging task but if you are ready to bring a new life to your kitchen, this helpful guide will show you how to remove backsplash tile without damaging the materials underneath. We recommend hiring a professional but if you are planning a DIY project, this guide includes useful tips that will show you how to do this job like a pro!
Best Seller Mosaic Tiles
ID# 181802 – Product BA631613 – Modern Gray Marble Chevron Mosaic Backsplash Tile
White Cabinets with Marble Chevron Backsplash and Glass Shelves
Just like the white glass tiles, marble is another gorgeous material that exudes timeless elegance. And if you are thinking of replacing your backsplash tiles, marble will be a perfect choice! As you can see in this contemporary kitchen remodel, the marble chevron backsplash instantly transforms this otherwise white kitchen into an eye-catching design. To enhance the impact of the tiles, lay them all the way up to the ceiling. Dor the rest, the white cabinets provide a clean and sleek foundation while the marble countertops seamlessly blend with the tiles. The glass floating shelves enhance the airy feel. The stainless steel range hood and the brushed nickel cabinet hardware perfectly complement the modern flair of the design.
Can you remove the tile without damaging the drywall?
This is the most common problem that occurs in homeowners who want to install new tiles and the answer is yes, you can remove tile backsplash without damaging the drywall. Indeed, it is not that easy! In case you dont have any experience at all; you may want to employ a professional. If you still don’t want to spend money on the removal process and want to do it by yourself, you can follow the steps below and find a good smooth surface on which to place your new backsplash tile!
ID# 181803 – Product BA1038 – Modern Long Gray Limestone Backsplash Tile
Gray Modern Kitchen Design with Rose Gold Range Hoods
To create a sleek, modern, and timeless kitchen design, a gray color scheme will always be one of the most suitable choices. In this contemporary kitchen, for example, the gray shades surround the space through the cabinets, countertops, and backsplash tiles. While the dark gray cabinets anchor the space and bring depth, the lighter gray countertops and backsplash tiles create a well-balanced look. If you are decorating your kitchen with a single color, the design lacks some transitions and accents thereby taking away the final glorified visual impact. Concerning that matter, the rose gold range hoods are an ideal match.
Modern Mosaic Tiles
How easy is it to remove the tile backsplash?
As we mentioned, removing the old tiles is not an easy job. You need to be careful and patient to avoid damaging the underneath of the tiles. But, if you will use proper tools and supplies, and do these steps one by one, you can remove them like a pro.
ID# 181804 – Product BA4503 – Modern Long Gray Porcelain Backsplash Tile
Scandinavian Kitchen with Porcelain Tiles and Wood Shelves
If you want to remove your backsplash tiles and replace them with more durable material, porcelain tiles offer both functional and aesthetic benefits. Coming in a wide array of colors, shapes, patterns, and textures, porcelain backsplashes are also much more affordable options compared to other materials like glass or marble. In this Scandinavian kitchen, the modern porcelain tile backsplash provides a sleek backdrop. The gray cabinets complement the tiles while the white quartz countertops enlighten the atmosphere. The matte black hardware enhances the modern flair. For a final touch, the wood floating shelves break the gray dominance, bringing warmth to the space.
What you will need to remove a backsplash tile?
Before starting to removing tile backsplash, first, you will need to supply some materials and equipment.
- Hammer or rubber mullet
- Putty Knife
- Screw Driver
- Drywall Knife
- Electric sander or hand sander
- Sandpaper
- Drywall sanding pad
- Drywall joint compound
- Grout removal blade
- Caulk removal tool
Because removing backsplash tile is a little messy job, you can use a simple plastic sheet to cover the working area. Also, you need to use protective equipment such as gloves, eye protection, a face mask or other clothing that is suitable for the project. On the other hand an electric sander is not necessary but it will help you to make the job easier!
ID# 181805 – Product BA1065 – Rusty Brown & Gray Slate Chevron Mosaic Tile
Natural Wood Cabinets with Gray Countertops and Slate Tiles
If you are a fan of rustic designs and looking for a backsplash material that meets your requirements, slate tiles might be the one that you are looking for! In this modern rustic kitchen, the slate chevron tile backsplash directly draws attention. The rusty brown and gray color of the tiles perfectly complements the organic warmth of the natural wood cabinets while the zigzag pattern gives a modern spin to this rustic tile. The gray countertops and stainless steel range hood complete the neutral color scheme while the glass lighting fixtures add a light and airy feel.
How much does it cost to redo a backsplash?
You may expect to pay around $300-$650 to remove the old backsplash tiles. The average cost of installing a new tile backsplash is $1000. However, this price depends on the size of your project, tile materials, and location. If you want to learn more information about the installation cost, check our ‘How to Choose Backsplash’ blog to find different alternatives! You can also check out our online shop to find lots of stylish backsplash designs.
ID# 181806 – Product BA5501 – Marble Look Blue Glass Hexagon Backsplash Tile
White Shaker Cabinets with Blue Backsplash and Wood Floor
If you want to give your kitchen a brand new look but don’t want to spend a fortune, remove a backsplash tile and install a new one! This way you can instantly change the old dated look. And if you are in search of a beachy backsplash design, you will love this kitchen tile backsplash. Adorned by marble-like textures, this blue glass hexagon mosaic tile backsplash acts as a piece of art and creates a focal point. The clean and plain appeal of the white shaker cabinets and white quartz countertops allows the backsplash tiles to stand out even more.
How do you smooth a wall after removing tile?
Once you remove the tiles and adhesive, you need to smooth the drywall to create a uniform surface. To smooth the drywall, use the putty knife and the drywall joint compound to fill the uneven areas or nicks on the drywall.
How do you replace a backsplash without removing tile?
Removing backsplash tile is a time-consuming and messy job for sure. You may not want to spend too much time on it so look for a quicker option! This option involves tiling over the tile. You can install a new backsplash over your existing tiles. But you need to consider the condition of your old tiles. If there are some loose tiles, you need to replace them before the installation and if there are any cracks, mold or mildew on the tiles and grout lines, this method won’t be suitable for your DIY project. If you want to gain further knowledge about this method, please look at our ‘Tile Over Tile’ article. But once you replace a current backsplash with a new one, the best way to ensure a good installation is to take out the old tile backsplash!
ID# 181808 – Product BA8021 – Shimmery Black Long Glass Backsplash Tile
Wood and White Cabinets with Glossy Black Backsplash
If you want to add a dramatic appeal to your kitchen, a black backsplash will be a great choice. However, if you hesitate about a heavy feel, choose a glossy finish! As you can see in this contemporary kitchen which consists of white and wood two-tone cabinets, the glossy black backsplash tiles add a moody feel, creating a focal point. Even though the tiles have a black color, they play with natural light thanks to their glossy finish.
Remove Backsplash Tile Step by Step
Once you have supplied the equipment that you need, it is time to start work! Before the removal process, first, you need to prepare the area. Plastic sheets will help you to keep the area clean and avoid damage by some items that can drop during the process. So, it is better to cover your countertops underneath the backsplash. And you can secure the plastic sheets with painter’s tape. The other important thing that you need to do will be to remove the covers of electrical switches and outlets that are located within the working area. You can use a screwdriver to remove them and put them away from the area.
01- Chiseling
During this step, you need to be patient to avoid damage to the surface underneath the tiles. It is a time-consuming step but patience will help you to ensure that you don’t accidentally damage the drywall. For this step, use a putty knife to chisel the edges of the tiles and hammer the putty knife to loosen the tiles.
02- Remove the Adhesive
Once you have removed the tiles, you will see the adhesive on the drywall. To remove it, first, you need to identify the type of adhesive. Typically, there are two kinds of adhesives: cement-based and mastic. A cement-based adhesive will be rock-hard and spread in a very thin layer. Mastic is a semi-soft adhesive that can be spread thicker than cement-based.
To remove the cement-based adhesive, you need to use a putty knife or utility knife to chisel the adhesive from the drywall. You can use the same method with tile removal. Also, it might be better to use an electric sander because it is tougher than mastic. On the other hand, mastic is a softer adhesive than cement-based, so, you can remove it easier with an electric sander or hand sander.
03- Repair the Drywall
Once you remove the adhesive, it is time to fix any nicks or uneven spots on the drywall to create a uniform surface. To repair the drywall, fill drywall gouges with the drywall joint compound and sand the area. You can do this step more than once to create a smooth and uniform surface but you need to allow each layer of drywall joint compound to completely dry. After you have reached a uniform surface, you also need to allow them to fully dry.
Once you have created a smooth and uniform surface, now you are ready to install a new backsplash tile! At Backsplash Inc. we are serving a wide variety of high-end tile options at incredible prices! Before deciding on your tile check our huge inventory which includes the trendiest and most beautiful tiles from glamorous glass tiles to luxurious stones!
ID# 181809 – Product BA8004 – Black & Gray Textured Glass Mosaic Backsplash Tile
Dark Gray Cabinets with Glass Mosaic Tile Backsplash
When it comes to creating an eye-catching appeal, nothing can beat the versatility of glass mosaic tiles. Whether you want to design a stylish kitchen or give your old kitchen a brand-new look, you can not go wrong with these tiles. Here, for example, the gray and black textured glass mosaic tile backsplash directly draws attention, becoming the visual focal point of the space. For the rest, the dark gray flat-panel cabinets anchor the space while the light gray countertops complement the tiles.
Glass Mosaic Tiles
ID# 181810 – Product BA2007 – Modern Warm Gray Marble Subway Backsplash Tile
Modern Farmhouse Kitchen with Two Tone Cabinetry
Farmhouse kitchens are known for their cozy and warm appeal. And to complement this appeal, this warm gray marble subway tile backsplash is a perfect fit! In this modern farmhouse kitchen, the combination of warm natural materials and stark white color offers a well-balanced overall look. At the back, the white and wood cabinets, white countertops, and marble subway tiles create a harmonious whole. At the center, the dark gray kitchen island paired with gold chairs brings depth and much-needed contrast to the space.
ID# 181811 – Product BA1077 – Modern Long Gray Marble Backsplash Tile
Gray and White Kitchen with Marble Backsplash
Let’s take another popular example of how selecting a marble backsplash as an accent can also serve as a strong focal point! In the contemporary installation, the modern marble backsplash tiles extend to the ceiling, hence, this is a timeless and beautiful background that can not be ignored. It’s just a sight of how gray and white cabinetry and white quartz Caesarstone countertops merge with beautiful marble tile patterns. The stainless steel appliances, cabinet hardware, sink and undermount sink make a cohesive final touch that enhances the modern aesthetic.
Marble Mosaic Tiles
Do you have to replace drywall when replacing the backsplash?
A drywall is so delicate but after the removal of the tiles, you can repair the cracks and holes on the drywall with a drywall joint compound. So, the drywall wasn’t ruined too much and if you can fix it, you don’t have to replace it when replacing a backsplash.
ID# 181812 – Product BA62047 – Modern Glass, Marble & Mirror Mosaic Backsplash Tile
Modern White Kitchen with Black and White Tiles
Since backsplash tiles come in a wide variety of material options, why limit yourself to a single one? You can play with different materials and textures to create a one-of-a-kind appeal. In this modern kitchen, for example, the glass and marble backsplash tiles make a strong statement and enhance the otherwise all-white color scheme. Using simple white slab front cabinets is a great way to enhance the impact of the tiles even more.
