DIY-How to Remove Countertop Ceramic Tile Backsplash

Thinking of removing tile yourself? It's pretty easy as long as you take some precautions. The goal is to leave the underlying surface suitable for re-installation of whatever you decide to install. In this case, I planned on installing mosaic pattern backsplash glass tile and granite countertops. I did not film it years ago, but I installed all of this countertop and backsplash tile so it was tough (emotionally) to remove it as it was a lot of work getting it installed years ago. That being said the idea of granite countertops and a more modern looking backsplash was encouraging during it all.



One tip when removing tile from drywall is that you don't want to use the underlying drywall as a pivot point for your removal tool if at all possible as it can just cave it or rip a big hole you'll need to repair. The chisel (pry bar) and hammer method is best for removal on this stuff. Also it's best if you are not in a huge hurry and can take your time removing this stuff as less collateral damage is likely to occur.



Be sure to wear eye protection as little chunks of sharp tile come flying off. You will get some in your eye if you don't.



This stuff does fly everywhere using this removal method so cover up any holes, crevices, appliances, or furniture you do not want to get tile particles in them.



It's a little intimidating at the very beginning when destructively removing ceramic tile but once you realize that it's all got to be removed, you will just keep pushing forward with the job. Grab yourself an empty bucket too in which to put the scraps of removed tile in as the edges are like glass so a bucket makes hauling it out of your removal location easier. A wheelbarrow would work well too.



Good luck and get to work!