If you’re removing old tile from your home, there are a few things you should know. Among them are what to expect, what tools you’ll need and how to protect yourself while you’re at it. Discover the benefits of a dustless tile removal Phoenix with our expert technicians and state-of-the-art equipment, ensuring a clean and efficient removal process.
Before you start, you should wear safety goggles and a face mask, as well as gloves and long pants. These will keep you safe from dust and shards of broken tiles.
1. Know What You’re Getting
Removing tile isn’t the easiest job, but it can be done in a relatively safe and efficient manner. The key is knowing what you’re getting before you start.
For instance, know if you’re dealing with tiles that were installed in a traditional mortar bed or if they were set on a plywood or cement board underlayment. If the latter, the bond between the tile and underlayment will be easier to break than that between a mortar-bed installation.
Look for a spot where the underlayment is exposed and begin breaking up the tiles there. Then work your way from one end of the room to the other, prying up succeeding courses of tile.
2. Prepare Your Tools
You need a variety of tools to remove ceramic floor and wall tile. Some of them are more effective than others, depending on the size and scale of the area where you plan to work.
You can choose from manual or power tools, but make sure you have the right ones for the job. Look for tools that are lightweight, robust, easily compatible with other devices, and facilitate access to hard-to-reach places.
You should also invest in safety gear, such as goggles and a face mask. These are important to keep your eyes protected from flying debris of broken tiles and dust that can enter your nostrils.
3. Know Where to Start
When you need to remove a tile wall, floor or other surface, there are several things you need to know. These tips are important to help you get the job done right and safely.
First, you’ll need to prepare the area you’ll be working in. This involves cleaning it up and removing all furniture and other fittings that can scratch and damage during the demolition process.
Once the area is clean, it’s time to get to work. Start by removing the top layer of tile in one corner of the room.
Use a hammer and chisel to break the tile up into smaller pieces. As the tile breaks, place it in a bucket until you’ve filled it.
4. Make Sure You’re Safe
When it comes to removing tile, safety should be your number one priority. That means wearing protective glasses, gloves and a dust mask.
It also means making sure your tools are safe for the job and keeping your surroundings clean and clear of debris. It’s also important to take note of the flooring type and underlayment material before beginning.
Some types of underlayment, such as plywood, will be more susceptible to damage than others. If you’re unsure of the type, be sure to test the underlayment for asbestos.
5. Clean Up
Before you remove your tile, take time to prepare your work area for the project. This includes removing any freestanding fixtures that might get in the way, like toilets or built-in cabinets.
Next, cover any vents that are in the room, such as your HVAC system or overhead fans. This will help keep dust out and make the clean-up process easier.
Once you’ve removed the trim and baseboards, start removing the tiles with a scraper or floor shovel. If you’re removing mastic-set tile, it may be easier to pry these up with a chisel or hammer.
Be sure to dispose of any broken tiles or shards of mortar and mastic in heavy-duty contractor trash bags (you can recycle them). This will cut down on cleaning time, as well.
