How To Remove Tile Bathroom Floor

Removing ceramic or porcelain tiles is a challenging task that requires the right tools and precautions. Here is a guide to help you safely and effectively remove shower and bathroom tile.

1. Gather the Tools: Safety glasses, gloves, dust mask or respirator, pry bar or tile removal tool, hammer, chisel, bucket, backer board or cement board, thinset mortar, notched trowel, grout, grout float, tile spacers, level, measuring tape, caulk gun, and caulk.

2. Protect the Area: Clear the bathroom of all fixtures, furniture, and rugs. Cover the remaining surfaces with plastic sheeting or drop cloths to protect them from dust and debris.

3. Remove the Grout: Wear safety glasses, gloves, and a dust mask or respirator. Use a grout saw or oscillating tool to remove the grout from around the tiles. Be careful not to damage the tiles.

4. Pry Up the Tiles: Starting in a corner, insert the pry bar or tile removal tool under a tile and gently pry it up. Tap the pry bar with a hammer to help loosen the tile. Continue prying up the tiles, working your way across the floor.

5. Scrape Off the Mortar: Use a chisel and hammer to scrape off the thinset mortar from the back of the tiles and the subfloor. Be careful not to damage the subfloor.

6. Inspect the Subfloor: Once the tiles and mortar are removed, inspect the subfloor for any damage or rot. If there is any damage, it will need to be repaired before you can install new tiles.

7. Clean the Subfloor: Remove any remaining debris or dust from the subfloor using a broom and dustpan or vacuum cleaner.

8. Install the New Tiles: Apply a thin layer of thinset mortar to the subfloor using a notched trowel. Place the tiles on the mortar and press them into place. Use tile spacers to ensure that the tiles are evenly spaced.

9. Grout the Tiles: Once the tiles are installed, grout the joints between the tiles. Use a grout float to apply the grout and press it into the joints. Remove any excess grout with a damp sponge.

10. Caulk the Joints: Apply a bead of caulk to the joints between the tiles and the walls, bathtub, or shower. Use a caulk gun to apply the caulk and smooth it out with your finger or a caulk tool.

Removing tiles can be a challenging task, but it is possible to do it yourself with the right tools and precautions.