How to Demo a Tile Counter
Tile countertops are a durable cook surface, but if yours are cracking or simply not what you want in your kitchen, you can remove them. The key to removing tile counters is to go slowly and avoid damaging the cabinetry. Examine your tile counter before demolishing it and see whether the tiles were mounted to a backer board that you could unscrew and lift off. If not, start chipping away at the tiles. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Place a tarp on the floor to protect it from the dust and debris of tile demolition.
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Turn off the water and disconnect the gas or electricity before demolishing the countertop.
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Remove the sink, cooktop and any other items in the counter by chipping out the tiles and mortar around them. Once those tiles are removed, the sink or cooktop should lift out easily. If it doesn't, check for adhesive underneath and carefully pry it away from the counter.
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Remove all the grout from between the tiles with a chisel. Use a hammer to lightly tap the back of the chisel.
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Place a chisel under the edge of a tile and use a hammer to lightly tap on the back of the chisel. Some or all of the tile will come off.
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Continue with the chisel and hammer until all the tiles are off.
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Scrape the remaining mortar off the countertop and wipe it clean.
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Vacuum the area with a shop vacuum.
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Tips & Warnings
Always wear safety goggles and work gloves to protect yourself from flying dust and debris.
References
- Photo Credit ULTRA F/Digital Vision/Getty Images
