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 under the tile to 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 or mortar remains after you remove the tiles. These should be completely removed before you lay a new floor.
- For thin adhesive residues: For this, use a putty knife, tile scraper or oscillating multi-tool.
- For thick and stubborn adhesive residues: For stubborn adhesive residues, it may be useful to use an angle grinding wheel with bowl wheel, or the breaker hammer with flat chisel. Proceed with caution and take care not to grind or chisel too deeply into the subfloor, especially with underfloor heating.
Step 5: Check the underfloor heating
After all the tiles are removed, it is wise to test the underfloor heating for a while. 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 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 house clearance combined with floor removal. Whether it’s the removal of tile floors, parquet floors, laminate, or other types of floors, we expertly tackle this as part of a complete house clearance. Do you have a house clearance that also requires floor removal? Please contact us for a free quote.
Want to read more about removing flooring yourself? Then check out our articles on removing a parquet floor and removing carpeting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I remove a tiled floor myself?
It is possible to remove tile yourself. However, this is a physically demanding and time-consuming job. It is essential that you have the right tools. You must also be very careful, especially if there is floor heating under the tiles. Are you unsure or inexperienced? Then it may be wise to enlist the help of a professional.
What does it cost to have a tile floor removed?
The cost of removing a tile floor depends on a number of factors. For example, the surface of the floor, presence of underfloor heating, accessibility of the room and removal of the debris. Would you like an estimate of the costs? Then contact us for a no-obligation quote.
Is there a difference in the type of floor tile and how to remove it?
Yes, there is definitely a difference in the type of floor tile and how it should be removed. It depends on the type of tile, but also how they were laid.
Ceramic tiles are often fixed with flexible tile adhesive, which often makes them fairly easy to loosen. Natural stone tiles, on the other hand, are somewhat thicker and harder, making them more difficult to remove. Large tiles are also more difficult than small tiles because they break more easily. Old tiles are often the most difficult because they are often covered in a very thick layer of adhesive.
What needs to happen before a new floor can be laid?
After removing the old tiles, a number of things must be done before a new floor can be laid. For example, thoroughly removing glue residue and leveling the subfloor. It is also wise to check the floor heating.
What is the best way to dispose of the removed tiles?
Removing broken tiles is a big job. When removing large tile floors, it is therefore smart to rent a container or have a trailer ready, for example. You can also use debris bags when removing only a few tiles. You can often take the debris to the recycling yard.
