How to Remove a Kitchen Backsplash

Most kitchen backsplashes are secured with thin-set mortar, adhesive tile mats, or mastic. It's okay if you aren't sure which adhesive was used for your backsplash because learning how to remove backsplash adhesives is simple. All you need is a putty knife, hairdryer, dish soap, water, and maybe a commercial adhesive remover. Follow these steps to remove adhesive residue for the best results.

• Use a putty knife to scrape off as much of the adhesive as possible.
• Heat the remaining layer with a hairdryer to soften the adhesive and scrape it again.
• Use a sponge to wash the area with warm, soapy water to break down the remaining adhesive.
• Wipe down the area with a damp cloth to remove the soap residue and adhesive.
• Use a commercial adhesive remover designed for walls if the adhesive won't come off with the above methods.

When learning how to remove a kitchen backsplash, it's essential to understand how to prevent damage to counters, cabinets, and adjoining walls. If you damage the wall, you can repair it with a drywall joint compound or replace the sheetrock. But if you damage the counter, you could be looking at expensive repairs or replacements.

Before you begin working, lay a towel on the countertop to catch debris that can cause scratching and other damage. When removing the caulk where the backsplash and countertops meet, work slowly using a utility knife and peel away the caulk gently. You may want to use rubbing alcohol to soften old caulk before removing it.

You'll need to determine if the backsplash is secured to the countertop and wall or only the wall. If the backsplash is glued to the wall only, removing it without damaging a countertop is simple—cut out the caulk and pry the backsplash from the wall. But if it's adhered to the countertop, learning how to remove the tile backsplash without damaging countertops can be challenging. In this situation, it's best to consult with a service professional.

Removing a tile backsplash can take several hours or longer if you're just learning how to remove a backsplash. Depending on the size of the tiles, how they were secured, and other factors, avoiding sheetrock damage makes the process slow. If you don't want to spend hours chipping away and risk excessive damage, don't try to save the drywall. Drywall damage is almost inevitable when removing a kitchen backsplash, plus you'll have to remove the adhesive. Instead, save time and effort when you cut out the drywall, tile and all, and install new sheetrock.

Tile is one of the most popular kitchen materials, and removing a tile backsplash is one of the most tedious projects you can tackle. The work requires the correct tools, know-how, patience, and elbow grease. If you want to install a backsplash that is easy to remove, peel-and-stick materials are the solution. Here's why.

• Peel-and-stick backsplashes can be removed easily by softening the adhesive with a hair dryer.
• Self-adhesive tile can be easily cut and trimmed for a customized installation.
• The tiles can be secured to the wall without messy grout.
• Peel-and-stick backsplashes are typically less expensive than traditional tile.
• Self-adhesive materials come in a nearly endless array of looks and designs, from traditional subway tile to natural stone to mosaics.