Protect ceramic shower pans and bathtubs from falling tiles by covering them with cardboard. [2] X Research source Cover any drains as well, such as by putting tape over them.
When removing a single tile, remove the grout on all sides of it to avoid damaging the others around it. If you are removing an entire wall of tiles, just make sure to remove grout next to the ceiling and floor.
An ordinary grout saw typically does not work for wall tiles, because of lug spacers that connect adjacent tiles underneath the grout.
You may need to purchase an extra-small head attachment in order to fit between the tiles.
Your best bet is in areas where you’ve removed the grout, and areas with signs of water damage.
If the tiles break instead of coming away, try an air chisel instead. Have an assistant wearing leather gloves catch the tiles as they come away, before they fall. The first tile is generally much harder than the rest. Take your time to tap out the first one, then attack the exposed edge of the next tile. Make sure to be very careful near the edges because the tile will chip easily. If you’re only trying to replace 1-2 tiles because they’re cracked, use masking tape or duct tape to tape off the tiles you want to remove. Then, tap the tiles with a chisel, starting in the middle and working your way out. Once you get some of the tile pulled away, use your chisel to get behind the tile and tap it sideways to remove the rest. [9] X Expert Source Art FrickeHome Renovation & Repair Specialist Expert Interview. 1 July 2020.
Eye protection is especially important for this method. Porcelain tiles will break into extremely sharp, glass-like shards. If this happens, consider breaking them from the side with a hammer and chisel instead, to reduce the number of fragments.
