How Do I Remove the Tile Around My Shower or Bathtub Area?

Tile is a commonly used finish materials in bathrooms, and is a reasonably long-lasting and durable material.

Tile, both ceramic and stone, is used in just about every area of architecture and construction, from floors to walls. Because of the natural water resistant properties of tile, it is commonly used in wet or moist rooms, such as kitchens and bathrooms. Bathtubs and showers are often surrounded or constructed with tile, and while tile is usually a strong and long-lasting material, it can deteriorate or discolor over time and use. Removing tile around a shower or bathtub area is a generally straightforward task, and can be completed by just about anyone using only basic construction tools.

Things You'll Need

• Canvas dropcloth
• 3-Inch flat masonry chisel
• Masonry hammer
• Flat pry bar

Instructions

1. Spread the canvas dropcloth over any fragile or easily scratched surfaces. Removing tile can be messy, and the dropcloth will help prevent any damage to bathroom fixtures.

2. Remove the grout between the tiles, using the 3-inch flat masonry chisel and masonry hammer to chip away at the grout material.

3. Tap the flat pry bar with the masonry hammer to ease it behind a tile, and pull to free the tile; tiles will often break during this motion, and you may need to repeat it as necessary to completely remove the tile.

4. Work your way through the remaining tiles, using this process, and remove any remaining mortar from the area, using the masonry chisel and hammer.

References

• "Tile Your World: John Bridge's New Tile Setting Book"; John P. Bridge; 2003