How to Remove Backsplashes

Backsplashes originally started as a way to keep the kitchen clean. They were put in around the sink and stove. Spills and splashes were easily wiped down. Backsplashes soon evolved to more of a decorative touch to the kitchen. Now backsplashes serve both convenient and decorative purposes. If you no longer want your backsplash or are moving to a house with an unattractive backsplash, there are some simple steps you can take to remove the backsplashes.

Things You'll Need

• Small knife
• Small bladed screwdriver
• Hammer
• Putty knife

Instructions

1. Remove any caulking from around the backsplash and countertop. This is normally found where the backsplash meets the countertop. You can break the caulk with a small knife and then pull it out.

2. Place the screwdriver on an area of grout in the backsplash.

3. Tap the screwdriver lightly with the hammer until the grout cracks. Continue to chip away at the grout until you have the grout removed from one side of a tile.

4. Position a putty knife under the open side of a tile once you've removed the grout. Lift the putty knife to remove the tile.

5. Place the blade of the putty knife in the middle of the tile, perpendicular to the face, if it doesn't lift on the first couple of tries. Tap the knife with a hammer to loosen the tile from the sheet rock. Continue to do this in different areas of the tile until it comes loose from the sheet rock.

6. Finish one row using this process before moving to the next row. After you remove each tile, you will have to remove a new area of grout.

Tips & Warnings

• There are drill bits that are designed for grout removal. This tool will make your backsplash removal much easier.

• It is important to be as gentle as possible while removing the backsplash tiles so you don't damage the sheet rock.

References

• Removing Backsplash Tiles
• How to Remove Old Countertop
• Backsplash Bonanza