Removing Wall Tile Using a Reciprocating Saw

A reciprocating saw scraper can preserve the walls for new tile.

Removing wall tile is a messy, tiring job, regardless of how efficiently your tools work. A reciprocating saw with a scraper blade attachment can make the job easier. Normally used for large, imprecise cuts and demolition work, the front end of a reciprocating saw moves in and out quickly, similar to a jigsaw. With a scraper blade attached, the saw works under the tiles and saves you the hassle of manual chipping and scraping.

Things You'll Need

• Reciprocating saw scraper blade
• Newspaper or cardboard
• Drop cloths
• Safety glasses
• Dust mask
• Heavy work gloves
• Contractor-style trash bags
• Utility vacuum

Instructions

1. Fasten the scraper blade attachment to the front end of the reciprocating saw as if you were attaching a common reciprocating saw blade.

2. Lay cardboard or a thick layer of newspaper on the floor under the wall tiles. Spread out drop cloths over the cardboard or newspaper.

3. Put on safety glasses or goggles, a dust mask and heavy work gloves.

4. Hold the saw as parallel to the wall as possible, with the beveled edge of the scraper against the wall and the flat edge facing out.

5. Direct the leading edge of the scraper toward the end of a row of tiles. Do not point the scraper directly at the tiles, perpendicular to the wall, as you can punch holes through the wall, break the blade and drop the saw, causing injury.

6. Turn on the saw and push the scraper under the tiles, working across a row. Some tiles will likely shatter when the blade dislodges them from the adhesive. Scrape off each row of tiles in the same manner until the wall is clear.

7. Turn the saw with the beveled edge facing out and the flat edge against the wall. Scrape off the old tile adhesive with the reciprocating saw and scraper blade.

8. Pick up the large tile pieces, still wearing work gloves, and place them into a thick, contractor-style trash bag. Fold the drop cloths over, collecting the tile, grout and adhesive debris in the center. Shake the debris from the drop cloths into the trash bag.

9. Sweep the floor, then vacuum it with a utility vacuum.

Tips & Warnings

• Cover the tiles with strips of masking tape before scraping them off the wall, to help minimize projectile shards and debris.

• You can begin scraping the tiles off the wall from any free edge. If the wall is completely covered with tile, break and scrape off one tile with a manual chisel to create a starting point for the reciprocating saw scraper blade to work under the tiles.

• Small tile shards are very sharp and difficult to see. Clean the floor thoroughly after removing the tiles.

• Some reciprocating saws have a button that causes the blade to stay engaged until you manually deactivate it. Accidentally triggering the button can lead to injury if you are not familiar with operating the saw.

References

• Today’s Homeowner with Danny Lipford: Flooring Solutions for Your Home