How to Demo a Tile Floor

Installing new tile does not require a perfectly smooth surface.

According to Thomas Baker from This Old House, "the easiest way to get rid of an old tiled floor is just to put new tile right over it." Ceramic tile is easily installed over existing tile. The surface provides sufficient grip to a new layer of thinset but the end result is a much higher floor. Demolishing the old tile is always an option but creates a lot of dust and debris. Wear appropriate protective equipment when demolishing a tile floor.

Things You'll Need

• 5-pound sledge hammer
• Cold chisel
• Demolition hammer

Instructions

1. Hammer the tile near the center of the room with a 5-pound sledge hammer.

2. Chip the pieces of tile up from the ground and clear an area that exposes the underside of the surrounding tiles.

3. Position the cold chisel with the flat edge along the joint between the surrounding tiles and the floor if a power tool is unavailable. Hammer the chisel under the tile to lift up the tile and remove it.

4. Position the chisel-end of the demolition hammer, which is a pneumatic or electric tool designed for tile removal and is available for rent from most hardware stores, in the same position as the cold chisel. Activate the hammer in accordance with directions included with the purchase or rental of the tool.

5. Remove tile from the corners or near walls with the cold chisel only to avoid damaging the walls.

References

• "Lowe's: Complete Home Improvement and Repair"; Don Vandervort; 2005
• This Old House: Demolish a Tiled Floor