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How to remove tiles

A Bunnings team member removing tiles from a wall with a mash hammer and brick bolster

Overview

Removing tiles is a job you can do by yourself once you know a few basic steps. We show you how to use a hammer and bolster to take tiles off a wall. Plus, you will see how to get the room ready before you start the job

Steps

1Prepare to remove the tiles

Start by turning off the water and the electricity. You can do this yourself at the mains or get qualified tradies in to cap the pipes and disconnect the electricity. Once the room is isolated, remove everything attached to the walls including the tap ware and light switches.
Loose broken tiles being discarded into a wheel barrow

2Removing the tiles

Use a brick bolster and a mash hammer to remove the tiles. Start in the top corner of a row and work your way down and across. Use your wrecking bar if you need a bit of leverage. You want sure footing while you are working. So keep clearing the broken tiles away as you go. In some older houses, tiled walls are backed with asbestos. If you come across any, stop work immediately and contact your local council for advice.
A Bunnings team member removing tiles from a wall with a mash hammer and brick bolster
Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.