How to Remove Backsplash Tile in the Kitchen

There are plenty of ways you can update the look of your kitchen. One of the most impactful remodels is replacing the kitchen backsplash. Even if you are not interested in changing the backsplash, it is likely that your kitchen remodeling project will require you to demo the existing tile around the sink and stove. If you are up for the challenge, and have some experience with tools and construction, you might be able to remove backsplash tile in the kitchen on your own without damaging the drywall underneath.

Continue reading for the basic steps of kitchen backsplash removal.

Indianapolis Kitchen Remodeling Contractors 317-454-3612
Indianapolis Kitchen Remodeling Contractors 317-454-3612

What You Need to Remove Kitchen Backsplash Tile

To remove kitchen backsplash tile, there are some specific tools you will need. It is better if you already have experience using these tools, as kitchen tile removal requires precision and technique. You can locate any of these tools at your local home improvement store, or online at your favorite home retailer.

✏ Putty Knife
✏ Utility Knife
✏ Electric or Hand Sander
✏ Hammer
✏ 120 Grit Sandpaper
✏ Drywall Sanding Pad
✏ Drywall Joint Compound
✏ Box or Trash Receptacle
⚠ EXPERIENCE (We said that already; right?)

Basic Guide for Backsplash Tile Removal

FIRST —Turn off the power to the outlets and electricity in the kitchen area. This is a vital safety precaution. You do not want any power in the kitchen or backsplash areas.

Be sure your workspace is clear. Remove everything from the kitchen counters, including outlet covers, and anything on top of the refrigerator that might fall off.

Using your putty knife and hammer simultaneously, begin gently chiseling off the tiles. Be very careful not to penetrating the drywall underneath.

Place all of your demoed tiles in a box or trash receptacle and dispose of them responsibly. Consider donating them to an art school.

Under the tiles will be one of two types of adhesive, rock-hard or semi-soft. Semi-soft is also known as mastic, and you will need to use the 120 grit sandpaper to remove it from the wall. Rock-hard is a cement based thinset, which will require you to use your putty knife and scrape it off the wall.

If you have made any gouges in the drywall, use your putty knife, joint compound, 120 grit sandpaper, and sanding pad to repair them.

Trusted Kitchen Remodeling Contractors in Indianapolis, Indiana

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for affordable and certified kitchen remodeling in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are extensively experienced at restoring residential and commercial kitchens, as well as, providing complex remodels, repairs, and renovations, including drywall and painting for interior and exterior needs. If you want to add more storage space, new appliances, cabinetry, floors, or anything else you can dream of; we can do it! Contact us today to get started with a written estimate.

Indianapolis Indiana General Contractors
Indianapolis Indiana General Contractors 317-454-3612

Budget-Friendly Options for Kitchen Backsplashes

When you are redesigning the look of your kitchen, the backsplash is a great place to start. Once you choose the backsplash of your choice, it sets the tone and helps you choose the rest of your kitchen’s décor, including the flooring, countertops, and appliances. But before you make a final decision on kitchen backsplashes, it is wise to learn what your options are, especially if you working with a tight budget. Continue reading to learn 3 budget-friendly kitchen backsplash ideas.

Indianapolis Kitchen Remodeling 317-454-3612

Indianapolis Kitchen Remodeling 317-454-3612

Revamp or Re-Design

You have two options when it comes to installing kitchen backsplash, but many factors will influence which option is best for you. You can either revamp the current backsplash, or completely re-do it altogether. Depending on the type and the condition of your current kitchen backsplash, you may be able to simply revamp the look by adding materials onto it or on top of it. But if your backsplash is in poor condition, damaged, or just in the way, this may not be a good option for you. Instead, you might want to consider completely re-designing your kitchen backsplash from scratch. Talk to your remodeling contractor for help determining which option is right for your kitchen backsplash.

3 Options for Cost-Effective Backsplash:

Stone, Glass and Tile

Higher-end materials, like stone, glass, and tile, are extremely beautiful and long-lasting, but they are more expensive. By combining materials, both high-end and low-cost materials, you could create a higher-end look at a more reasonable price. Mix and match to create a beautiful backsplash that speaks to the tone of your kitchen.

Stainless Steel Sheets

Many homeowners are reaching for a more modern look. If you are too, choose stainless steel sheets for a smooth and sleek kitchen backsplash design. Stainless steel comes in many grades, so it can take on several color tones. Choose one that matches your stainless steel appliances, or go bright for an industrial look. These sheets are available almost anywhere, and are lower in cost than higher-grade materials like stone and tile.

Wallpaper and Paint

For a simple and super-inexpensive approach, try updating your kitchen backsplash with modern wallpaper and/or paint. Both materials come in virtually infinite colors, styles, and designs; so choosing a look to match the rest of your kitchen should be easy to do. Ask for free paint and wallpaper samples to test on your walls first, before making a final decision.

Indianapolis Kitchen Remodeling Contractors

General Contractors Indianapolis IN

Tile Floor Repair and Installation 317-454-3612

For expert results at economy-based prices, call Restoration By L&B, LLC at 317-454-3612 today. Owner, Lee Elliot, and his team of licensed contractors, provide a wide range of kitchen remodeling services, all within your budget. In fact, we guarantee to BEAT any competitor’s price! Call 317-454-3612 to request an estimate for kitchen remodeling in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Two Things to Consider Before Installing Tile Over Drywall

Indianapolis Kitchen Remodeling 317-454-3612

Indianapolis Kitchen Remodeling 317-454-3612

Whether a homeowner wishing to do some property upgrades, or a contractor remodeling a home, installing tiled walls is an appealing and unique way to add value and individuality to a room. Before you begin to move forward with your plans to tile over drywall, it is important to ask yourself two very important questions: 1) Which room is the wall located?, and 2) Will the wall be exposed to moisture or water? Continue reading to learn the two things you should always consider before installing tile over drywall.

Location

As mentioned, you want to start by asking yourself where the tiled wall will be located. This is because the location of the tiled wall will influence the type of installation you will need, as well as, the type of materials. Usually, people tile walls in rooms or areas of properties that are moisture-rich, such as bathrooms, showers, mud rooms, above kitchen sinks (backsplashes), and the spaces behind bathroom and kitchen sinks. This prevents the production of mold growth, and preserves the property’s structural integrity. Once you determine, or consider, which room and wall will be tiled, you can better answer your next question regarding water exposure.

Moisture

It is important to ask yourself whether or not the tiled wall will be exposed to water or moisture-rich conditions. For instance, showers and kitchen backsplashes are going to get wet and be exposed to water and moisture daily, whereas a tiled wall in the laundry room or vanity room may not. For areas that will not be affected or touched by water, you can simply move forward with your project and tile over the drywall using the proper tools and instructions. But if you are going to install tile over drywall in an area that will be subjected to water and moisture, you will need to add backer board first. Also called “cement board”, backer board goes between the drywall and the tile, and works as a barrier against moisture and water penetration. It is a waterproof material that comes in sheets, similar to drywall, and can be purchased at most home improvement stores.

Restoration By L & B, LLC

Home Remodeling and Painting

Home Remodeling Contractors 317-454-3612

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 when you need licensed and insured home remodeling services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner, Lee Elliot, is happy to offer free advice for drywall installation, home remodeling, renovation, and more. Whether commercial or residential, we provide a wide range of remodeling services at the most competitive prices in town. In fact, we guarantee to BEAT any competitor’s price! Call 317-454-3612 to speak with a licensed general contractor in Indianapolis, IN today.