Removing a tile floor under which there is underfloor heating can be a challenge. It is very important that this is done carefully and that the underfloor heating is not damaged. After all, those are expensive repairs. Therefore, we explain step by step how you can carefully remove your tiles without damaging the underfloor heating. We also give additional tips from experience.
Removing glued tiles – Supplies
To remove glued tiles or flagstones, the right tools are very important. This is because with good tools, this job goes a lot easier and the results will be better. So rent or buy tools that you don’t have at home, or ask family or friends to borrow them. Below is an overview of what you need:
- Crushing hammer with flat chisel
- Tile scraper or putty knife (for removing adhesive residue)
- Safety equipment (goggles, gloves, hearing protection, mouthpiece)
- Debris bags
- Construction vacuum cleaner or dustpan and brush
Floor tile removal step-by-step plan
Step 1: Preparation of the space
Make sure all the furniture is out of the room. This is because these are going to get in the way a lot and will also definitely get dirty or damaged otherwise. Also make sure there is good ventilation, so open as many windows and doors as possible. A lot of dust is released during tile removal. Don’t forget to turn off the floor heating and let it cool down completely before you start.
Step 2: Making starting point
Making a start can sometimes be tricky. Pick a tile and test how best to remove it. Our tip: Leave the demolition hammer for a while and use a flat chisel and a hammer for this. Use this to loosen a corner of the tile. In doing so, gently tap the corner of the tile with the chisel while holding it at an angle. Then you can remove a larger part of the tile and the starting point is made.
Step 3: Loosening tiles
Should the test tile come out very easily, you may choose to remove the entire floor with the hammer and chisel. After all, this is the most careful way and gives the least chance of damage. Unfortunately, however, this is often not possible. Usually a breaker has to come into play. You can carefully place the hammer underneath the tile and break the tiles one by one. Be very careful not to chisel too deeply into the subfloor, as this can damage the underfloor heating pipe. So really take your time for this step and proceed carefully.
Step 4: Remove glue residue
Often glue residue remains after you remove the tiles. For this you can use a putty knife or tile scraper. Tip: For thick adhesive layers, it can be useful to use floor glue remover, which you can get at hardware stores such as Praxis or Gamma.
Step 5: Check the underfloor heating
After all the tiles have been removed, it is wise to test the underfloor heating system. This way you will know if there is no damage. Then let the underfloor heating run for a few hours before laying a new floor.
Removing tiles without damage
Removing tiles undamaged is often difficult. But it is possible if the tiles are already somewhat loose and you proceed very carefully. To remove tiles or flagstones undamaged, it is best to use a light hammer and a chisel. Do not use a sledge hammer for this, as this is likely to break the tiles. First, give light taps on the grout and try to loosen it. Then stick the chisel under the tile and gently tap it with the hammer in several places. Try to get the chisel slightly under the tile and see if you can elevator it up.
Need help with tile removal?
Removing a tile floor without damaging the underfloor heating system can be quite a challenge. Don’t have the time or experience? Our team is here to help you remove your tile floor safely and quickly. We specialize in flooring removal. So we have wide experience in removing tile floors, but also parquet floors, laminate, or other types of floors. Would you like to read more about removing floors yourself? Then check out our articles on removing a parquet floor and removing carpeting.
