Removing wall tiles (Tile question 1)

fatbeetle

Many years ago I decorated a wall with tiles. 6 of these tiles were nice decorative ones which I brought back from a holiday in Tunisia.

I'd like to retile the wall with new tiles, but also to remove the Tunisian tiles intact for use elsewhere. Does anyone have any tips tricks or techniques for removing wall tiles intact?

Thanks muchly,.

MX5huggy

You either did a bad job and each will just flick off, or you did a proper job and you have no hope.

kerri_gt

I'm wondering if it might be possible to get the other tiles off round them (likely remove the grout first so there's no chance of the grout sticking to both tiles and inadvertently pulling them off together). Once you have a clear space round your Tunisian tiles it may be possible to get a very fine hacksaw blade, have the handle at 90 degrees to the wall with the blade flush to the wall and saw the tile off.

It will take time and patience and care...be ready to catch the tile coming off the wall too (don't want an only fools and horses chandelier moment).

I've never tried this but just an idea.

jk0

If the tiles are on plasterboard, just smash the surrounding tiles with a hammer, breaking the plasterboard. (Safety glasses & gloves!) Then the ones you want to keep should come away with the plasterboard. Put the whole lump in water for two days. Then you will be able to scrape off the plasterboard & adhesive.

fatbeetle

Thanks for the advice folks. I'm getting a grouting remover / chisel today, and will feed back.

Unfortunately the tiles are on a rendered granite wall.

fatbeetle

Done it! Only split one tile of the six, more than happy with the outcome. A grout rake was the key to it.