How to remove tiles to re-use?

kbb

hi,

I would appreciate any advice on removing tiles from swollen chip-board that minimises chance of breaking them. I would like to re-use where possible after the substrate is repaired.

image shows tiles and substrate in question. (Chip-board is no longer damp)

cheers and thanks

JacobZ

Hi @kbb,

Unfortunately, there is always a fairly high risk of breaking tiles when removing them from their substrate. You can reduce the risk, but I wouldn't count on saving all the tiles.

Your best chance, assuming you want to keep the wall sheeting in place, would be to remove the surrounding grout first with a grout saw or multi-tool with a grout blade, then work on each tile individually. You can sometimes slip some braided wire behind the tile and use it like a saw to cut away at the adhesive, although this technique is really dependent on what tile adhesive was used and how solid it is.

Take your time and wear eye protection, gloves and a suitable dust mask. I’d also plan on some breakages and check that replacement tiles are available before starting, as successfully recovering every tile is unlikely.

Allow me to tag some helpful members to see if they have any ideas - @Dave-1, @Noyade, @JDE.

Let me know what you think.

Jacob