How to remove tile adhesive

Published on April, 15 2025
How to remove tile adhesive in 4 simple steps | DIY EVO-STIK

Removing tile adhesive is an essential step in preparing surfaces for a fresh installation or repair, and when during an application to ensure the finished result is as clean and professional-looking as possible.

Whether you're needing to remove old floor tile adhesive, or are tackling a small, problematic wall, following the right process ensures your project runs smoothly. Here’s a comprehensive guide sharing the best way to remove tile adhesive, to help you get started.

Why removing tile adhesive is important?

Although tile adhesive varies in types, it's common properties are that it has high strength, great adhesion and water resistance. Therefore, once fully cured, it can be extremely difficult to remove, especially once set in place for some time.

The problem with leaving old adhesive in place can cause many issues including:

  • Uneven surfaces, leading to poor tile alignment.
  • Weak adhesion for new tiles, risking damage over time.
  • Aesthetic issues if tiles are reinstalled unevenly.

Proper removal ensures a smooth, clean surface ready for new adhesive or alternate finishes.

Planning your tile removal

Before starting to remove tile adhesive, it's important to plan to consider the following factors:

  • Tile type: Ceramic, porcelain, glass, or natural stone tiles may require different techniques.
  • Surface type: Is the adhesive on a concrete floor, drywall, cement board, or plywood?
  • Tools required: Common tools include a scraper, chisel, hammer, but more difficult tile removals could require an oscillating tool.
  • Preservation of tiles: Are you trying to preserve the tiles, the substrate, or both?
  • Work area: Consider ventilation for indoor spaces.
  • Protection: Wear gloves, safety glasses, and a dust mask for safety.

Tools and materials

To successfully remove tile adhesive, you'll need the right equipment. As tile adhesive varies in types, there can be different tools and materials to consider:

  • Scraper
  • Chisel and hammer or oscillating multi-tool or rotary tool with a grout removal blade
  • Sponge or scrub pad
  • Bucket (filled with warm soapy water)
  • Dust sheets or drop cloths
  • Protective equipment (gloves, safety goggles, mask, knee pads)
  • Sander or grinder (for powder adhesive) with dust extraction 

Step-by-step for how to remove tile adhesive

1. Prepare the area

Lay down your dust sheets or drop cloths to protect nearby surfaces.

Ensure proper ventilation if working indoors. We recommend opening windows and doors and wearing a dust mask.

2. Scrape off the adhesive

Start to scrape off the adhesive. It's important to be gentle when scraping at the adhesive to avoid damaging the tile or surface below.

Depending on your type of adhesive will depend on the success with using a scraper. For removing cement-based adhesive or floor tile adhesive, additional work may be required. Additional steps for floor tile adhesive removal:

  • Use a hammer and chisel or oscillating tool to carefully chip away at stubborn adhesive
  • Remember to apply steady pressure only

3. Clean the surface

Wipe down the surface with a damp sponge and warm soapy water to remove any leftover residue and dry the area with a cloth.

4. Inspect the area

Once dry, take care to inspect the area to make sure there is no leftover patches of adhesive or rough areas. Continue steps 2-3 as required until there is no adhesive leftover.

Experiencing stubborn adhesive? If you're still experiencing extremely rough or uneven surfaces, with parts of dried adhesive still present, use a sander or grinder to target stubborn areas, especially on concrete floors.

Once all adhesive has been removed, you'll then be ready for proceeding with new tiles or finishes.

Tips for preserving tiles

Whilst you're removing old tile adhesive, it's important to consider if you want to try to preserve the tiles for a future project. If so, use our handy tips to help you keep them in good condition, ready for their next installation:

  • Work carefully to avoid chipping or cracking reusable tiles.
  • Use a chisel or suitable scraper with rounded edges to minimise damage during removal process.
  • Soak tiles in warm water for a few hours to loosen adhesive on the back.

Common problems and solutions

Q: I've damaged the substrate below, what do I do before I install my new tiles/finishes?
Patch any holes or cracks with appropriate filler before reinstalling tiles. Ensure to allow it to dry until fully cured for maximum results.

Q: I am experiencing excessive dust during the tile adhesive removal
Dampen the surface lightly using a bucket of warm water and a sponge, while scraping to reduce dust.

Q: The substrate I'm left with is uneven!
Sand or level out imperfections using a grinder, after adhesive removal to get a smooth, clean surface.

Q: Can I tile over old adhesive?
It’s not recommended. Old adhesive can compromise the bond and cause uneven tiling.

Final thoughts

When removing your old tiles or tile adhesive, remember these key three steps for a smooth-sailing project:

  • Always test a small area before starting the full removal process.
  • Plan adequate time for cleanup and surface preparation.
  • If in doubt, consult a professional for large or complex projects.

That's it! You've discovered the best way to remove tile adhesive and using our tips and tricks, have a smooth surface to start your next project: your new tiling installation…

Need a helping hand with that too? Follow our step-by-step guides for how to tile a floor using powdered adhesive or how to tile a wall using ready-mixed adhesive.