Q I need to remove some old floor tile to install new carpet. What's the easiest way to remove it?
A There are several methods of removing tiles. Some require more work than others. The best method for you will depend on your situation. Here are some suggestions:
If you're interested in salvaging and reusing the old tile, a rotary tool is your best bet. Use the rotary tool to cut along the grout lines, cutting all the way around the individual tiles. Keep in mind that the ability to remove old tile without breaking it may depend on how it was installed and how long it has been in place. Once you've cut around the grout lines, use a pry bar to carefully pry up and remove each tile.
If you're not interested in saving the tile, the simplest method is to simply break up the tile with a hammer, then scrape away the remains. Place a towel over the section of tile that you're removing to prevent shards from flying up. Making certain you have eye protection, use a small sledgehammer to strike the tile through the towel, breaking it up into pieces.
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Use a hand scraper to remove any remaining pieces and floor-adhesive.
If you have a large amount of tile to remove and you want to save time, consider using a power scraper. This piece of equipment is available from rental centers. The cost is around $50 to $75 per day.
This machine makes a lot of noise, so use earplugs.
The power scraper has a sharp reciprocating blade that gets underneath and breaks up the tile and adhesive. It's a good idea to buy extra blades in case one breaks. Once you've removed the tile and adhesive, you'll likely have some gouges and dents in the floor. Use floor-leveling compound (available at home centers) to fill in the gaps to create a flat surface.
Safety alert: Always wear eye protection, gloves and kneepads if you'll be doing the job by hand.