How to remove tile flooring

Removing tile flooring using industrial tools is more time consuming and more difficult than using a small hand tool, but it can be the only way to remove damaged or loose tiles.

Floor tiles are usually laid down in a bed of mortar between courses (often sand), so they're actually part of the floor and not just glued or nailed down.

Steps

1. To remove tiles you need to dig out the mortar underneath them. Do this by chipping along the grout line.
2. Using a cold chisel, chip the tile away.
3. If there are large cracks between your tiles or if one just pops apart easily when you grab it, that means you'll need to do a little extra work with chisels and hammers before you can begin prying up the tile from its neighbors—and once it's off, it may leave behind a gap that must be patched with grout.
4. Remember, always wear safety eyewear.