How to remove tile backsplash

How to remove tile backsplash

The first step to removing your tile backsplash is removing grout and caulk. For water-based caulk, apply warm water to soften it. For silicone-based caulk, use acetone. Then, gently pry the tiles off with a putty knife. Scrape off the adhesive, repair any drywall damage with joint compound, and sand the area.

Changing your backsplash is an affordable way to update your kitchen without a full renovation. You can easily switch up the color, texture, and overall look of your space. Plus, it's a simple project you can do on your own or hire a low-cost professional compared to a larger remodeling project. Learn how to remove your tile backsplash without ruining your drywall.

Remove tile backsplash without damaging walls

Removing your tile backsplash without damaging your drywall or with minimal damage starts with scoring the grout lines. Then, use a wide putty knife to gently wedge between the tile and drywall to pry it off. Next, gently scrape off the adhesive and inspect the drywall for damage. If any, repair with joint compound.

How to remove kitchen tile backsplash

Applying too much force while removing your backsplash can cause the drywall to tear or get gouged. The key is to take your time and use a wide putty knife to distribute pressure over a larger area.

Another pro tip is to begin prying tiles off from a corner or edge where it’s easier to work without disturbing the rest of the backsplash.

Tools for removing tile backsplash

Tools needed

• Pry bar (or crowbar)
• Hammer
• Utility knife
• Putty knife
• Dremel rotary tool
• Shop vacuum
• Sandpaper

Materials needed

• Plastic sheeting or drop cloths
• Painter’s tape
• Joint compound
• Masking paper or plastic

How to remove tile backsplash from drywall

Prepare your work area

Before you start removing the backsplash, make sure to clear the space. Remove any nearby appliances or food in the cabinets. Next, lay down plastic sheeting or drop cloths on your countertop, cabinets, and floors to protect them from debris, tile shards, and dust. 

You can also use painter's tape to tape off areas where the backsplash meets the countertop, cabinets, or wall. This will help keep dust and debris from reaching the areas you want to protect.

Turn off the power and water

If your backsplash is near electrical outlets, switches, or water lines, like behind a sink, you need to turn off the power at the breaker panel and the water (many homes just have one shutoff for the whole house). In addition, cover electrical outlets with painter’s tape to avoid contact with moisture or dust.

Remove caulk and loosen grout

If you have a water-based caulk, apply warm water to a towel and let it sit on the caulk for a few minutes to soften it. However, you will need something stronger for silicone-based caulk, such as acetone or rubbing alcohol. Apply a small amount to a cloth and gently rub it along the caulk to soften it. 

Once the caulk has softened, carefully scrape it from the wall with a utility knife.

Next, position your chisel at the edge where the grout meets the tile. Gently tap the chisel's handle with a hammer to break it up. Be careful here and avoid hitting the chisel too hard, as it could damage the drywall behind the tiles. If the grout is particularly stubborn, you can use a Dremel with a grout-removal bit to remove it without damaging the wall.

Remove the tiles

Use a putty knife or pry bar to gently remove the tiles from the wall. Take your time in this step and avoid using excessive force to prevent damage to the drywall behind the tiles.

For tougher tiles or adhesives, gently tap the end of the pry bar with a hammer to help loosen the tiles. Once the first tile is removed, continue working your way along the backsplash, using the same method to carefully lift the tiles one by one.

If tiles start to break, don’t panic. It’s better to break a tile than risk gouging the drywall with excessive force.

Remove adhesive and grout

Once the tiles are removed, residual adhesive (like mastic or thin-set) will likely remain on the drywall. Use a putty knife or tile scraper to scrape off the bulk of the adhesive. A pro tip is to scrape parallel to the wall to prevent damage.

If the adhesive is particularly stubborn in certain areas, you can use an adhesive remover like Goo Gone or Citristrip to soften the remaining glue.

Repair the drywall

Even the most careful person ends up gouging some parts of the drywall. Once all backsplash tiles, adhesive, and grout are removed, take a good look at the condition of your drywall. It’s common to see some small holes, dents, or minor gouges where tiles were attached. 

To repair the drywall, use a putty knife to apply joint compound in a thin, even layer to the holes and dents. Allow it to dry completely before sanding. 

When sanding, start with medium-grit sandpaper (100 to 120 grit) to level out the surface. Don’t sand aggressively to avoid creating deep grooves in the drywall. Once the surface is smooth, finish it off with fine-grit sandpaper (150 grit or higher) for a smooth, even finish. If you notice any imperfections after sanding, you can apply another layer of joint compound, let it dry, and sand again.

Removing a tile backsplash: DIY or Hire a Handyman

You can remove your tile backsplash on your own if it’s a small, straightforward task. However, there are other factors that determine whether you should hire a handyman or not, such as the complexity of the job, your experience, and the condition of the wall behind the tiles. 

• Availability of tools: If you’re comfortable using common tools like a utility knife, putty knife, hammer, and pry bar, you can DIY. However, handymen have access to specialized tools (e.g., rotary tools or oscillating saws) and techniques for getting tiles off more cleanly, which can be crucial for preventing drywall damage and ensuring a smooth wall afterward.
• Size of backsplash: You can do a small backsplash or one that’s easy to access (e.g., above a countertop). However, a larger and more intricate backsplash (like electrical outlets, plumbing, or tile removal in tight spaces) requires a professional to navigate it better.
• Wall damage concerns: If your backsplash tiles are glued with strong adhesive or you suspect the drywall might be compromised (e.g., old mastic that could pull drywall paper off), hire a handyperson to avoid major damage. Handymen also know how to repair any wall issues afterward.
• Cost-effective: If cost savings are a priority, it’s best to DIY the project. This will save you money on hiring a handyman, who could charge up to $10 per square foot, depending on your location and the job's complexity.
• Time flexibility: If you’re not in a hurry to finish removing the backsplash tiles, you can handle it as a weekend project. However, hiring a handyman can speed up the process if you're on a tight timeline. They can quickly remove the tiles, repair the wall, and prepare it for a new backsplash.

If you choose to hire a skilled handyperson to remove your backslash, we recommend using a professional platform like Angi. It offers a large database of skilled handymen for kitchen renovations in your local area with real reviews and ratings, so you can know the quality of work to expect.