How to Remove an Existing Thinset
After removing tiles, it is necessary to remove the left over thinset adhesive used to bind the tile to the floor surface. When thinset dries, it becomes extremely hard. A large amount comes away with the tile when it is removed, but some always remains. Because new flooring almost always requires a perfectly clean and flat surface for installation, this remaining thinset must go. The majority of the work requires brute strength, but some specialized equipment is helpful and is available at tool rental and home improvement stores. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Hammer
- Long-handled scraper
- Broom
- Dustpan
- Trash receptacle
- Chisel
- Grinder or floor sander
- Floor mop and bucket
Instructions
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1
Examine the thinset for any pre-existing cracks or flaws to aid in removal. Use a hammer to strike any weak areas to begin breaking it free. Start out hitting the thinset with medium force to avoid damaging the material beneath, and increase force only if necessary to break it up.
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2
Slide a long-handled scraper across the floor, forcing the blade under the broken pieces of thinset. Start at a spot that is relatively clear of thinset, and shove the blade under the cracked and broken edges to pry more away. Repeat the hammering and scraping as necessary to remove the majority of the material.
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3
Sweep the floor with a broom and collect the debris into a dustpan. Dispose of the removed material in a suitable trash receptacle.
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4
Chip away at any remaining thinset using a hammer and chisel. Place the tip of the chisel diagonally against the floor at the edge of the thinset and hammer at it to dislodge it from the surface.
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5
Use a grinder or a commercial floor sander to remove any remaining thinset. Stop grinding or sanding periodically to clean the surface enough to see how much thinset is still on the floor. This process creates a lot of dust, so sweep it away often. Continue until all the thinset is removed from the floor.
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6
Clean the floor surface thoroughly. Use a broom to remove the majority of the final dust and debris, and a mop and bucket of clean water to extract all of the thinset dust left. Allow the floor to dry thoroughly.
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Tips & Warnings
Start hammering near the seams of the subfloor. This is sometimes the weakest point of the thinset and the easiest place to get started.
Try not to damage the surface beneath the thinset when hammering at it.
Wear safety glasses and a face mask to prevent chips flying into the eyes or inhaling the dust left behind from the removal.
