Any suggestions for removing 70s tile from window sills and updating the look with caulk, patching, and paint?
Asked by Ylona Koolman 
7 months ago
Last Updated: May 29, 2024
Any advice on getting rid of these groovy 70’s tiles from all of our window sills? It’s driving me crazy! Do you think using a chisel would work? We could remove them, caulk the windows, patch up any holes, and give it a fresh coat of paint. What do you think?
Why not just break it with a hammer, clean it up, and then drop a piece of poplar down? ‘t forget to caulk and paint afterwards.
One option is to simply put wood grain (or any pattern) vinyl over it. Then, when the time comes to replace the window, you can replace it all. In our case, I made sure to match the wood with some removable vinyl since my kids use the sill for their cups and tend to leave rings. 🙃
Thankfully, the previous owners replaced all the windows a couple of years ago before we moved in, including .
If it’s a stick framed wall, those should pop off pretty easily. But if it’s a masonry wall, they might be set in a mortar bed.
It’s interesting you mention that because my husband was attempting to lift them up 😂 Maybe I should ask him to give it more effort.
Do you know the construction of your house? Changes for appearance can affect the structure. The window serves to let in light and air, as well as to prevent water infiltration.
Are you suggesting I should leave them on to prevent water from getting in?
Demi, not always. Just exercise caution when trying to take them out, if you’re unsure of how they’re set up.
Just my two cents…I kinda dig it. I’ve never seen anything like this before. It’s so unique!
I sort of enjoy it, and now I’m interested in getting tiled windowsills because they seem really easy to clean.
That is so true, so true!
I never saw this until we moved to UT a couple of years back and the house was from the late 80s and had it! We moved again and this time the house was from the mid 60s and it also had it! So, no suggestions from me but just wanted to let you know you’re not alone! 😆👍
It’s hilarious that we’re both in Utah! 😆
I’m really liking how practical it is. Easy to keep clean. How’s it holding up? Would love to see more pictures, this is crazy
I noticed that it’s cracked and has multiple cracks. This window is facing south, and since I’m in Utah, it can get really hot and pretty cold at times. Some springs are cold in the mornings but hot in the afternoons 😅. It’s the same situation in all the bedrooms and our kitchen as well.
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If it’s similar to ours, it’s located under the window as part of the frame itself. Our windows rest on top of it, and then it’s all framed around. I wanted to remove ours when we got new windows, but my dad still owned the house at that time and wanted to keep them. They are easy to clean as everyone has pointed out, but they just don’t fit with what we’ve been doing to the house lately.
If you start chiseling, just be cautious. You might open up a whole new set of issues.
‘s point is so valid! I never considered it being beneath the window instead of beside it 🤔
https://youtu.be/iy6TLQ-X3Xk?si=ZWJAYBa1iMZ3VgMm
I totally agree with you!
That’s a narrow piece of drywall you’ll need to switch out, even with a corner bead. It’s quite a bit of work, actually.
I’m currently in the process of doing the same thing because I can’t stand the tile windowsills in my 60s house. I’m planning to pick up a small stone from the floor and decor store to give this windowsill some extra flair. I’m turning this room into a nursery for my upcoming first child, a daughter!
For breaking it into pieces, I used a hammer and a small chisel for the edges, which made it quite simple.
Also, when I removed mine, they were set on some sort of mortar, leaving a 1-3/4 inch gap.
Just leave it there and trim right over the existing setup. Create an extension jamb box, nail the sides and top, and secure the bottom with Tapcon screws as close to the window as you can. Use an inside stop to cover the Tapcon heads, then add casing from the jamb box to the walls. If you want to go a bit fancier, you could even add a stool and apron.
That looks really nice and seems super easy to clean! I definitely wouldn’t mess with it!
Hmm, I’m starting to really like it!
Why don’t you paint it in the color you love?
How about using a hammer drill and a chisel bit?
You might find one for a good price at harbor freight.
Do you think adding wood trim around the window would improve it? Extend it just below the tile border.
Removing it would reduce the value of your home.
Maybe we could consider covering it with some wood trim instead of chiseling it out, in case it goes under the window or something like that.
They tend to partially go under the window
Taking them out will create a large gap that’s too big to caulk. I recommend installing a board after removal (primed finger jointed in big box store), then caulk and paint, or place a marble plate over the tile and trim underneath it.
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We’ve got a sturdy stone covering the window that makes cleaning a breeze. At our previous home, we used a piece of solid bamboo that was also easy to clean. I’ll hold off on replacing it until I find something that’s the right thickness. Removing it during winter without a plan sounds like a tough situation.
Your timing advice is always on point! I really appreciate when someone reminds me to be patient!😃
It all stems from starting projects and then regretting it. 🤣😳😬 Plus, where we are currently, if you require a professional to step in, be prepared for a long wait.
I’m with you on that! We were gonna hold off until it warms up a bit, just looking for some advice!
Yeah, it’s a piece of cake to criticize, but winter is definitely not the best time for it. Make sure to gather the new parts beforehand!
This is the distance it protrudes
This is just one of the 6 cracks you can see on the window. One big reason I want to fix it is that the basement windows don’t have any cracks because they were replaced after we finished part of the basement. I really want the upstairs and downstairs windows to match.
I suggest starting by taping cardboard to the glass.
If the window can be opened or taken out, it’s a good idea to try to move the glass away.
Removing it gently can be quite easy, but as others have mentioned, it’s best to cover the windows with cardboard and tape. Ceramics and glass should not be mixed together!
If there is a grout joint between the tile and the window, then they aren’t directly below the window. Place a piece of cardboard over the window, cover the tiles with a cloth, and then use a hammer to break them. It’s important not to rush into it until you fully understand the situation, but you should have a plan in place for an alternative. Make sure to seal the window before installing any interior trim to prevent water and air from getting in, but it all depends on the age of the house, windows, and framing.
I would patch up the cracks and paint it a nice matte black. Seems like a lot of work to replace!
Give a hammer a try
My house was constructed in 1965. I have a similar treatment on my windows. I removed the tile (which contained lead in the glaze, so caution was necessary) and added a thick window sill to fill the space. It was a simple task.
This is the window in my master bedroom. I plan on keeping it as is and adding curtains for decoration.
Place a piece or two of cardboard on the window to protect it. Next, grab a flat pry bar and slide the 90-degree bent tip under the overlapping edge of the tiles. Then, gently tap the bar with a hammer to start loosening the tiles. Use the pry bar to lift them up. If they are stubborn, use a flat oscillator multi-tool to cut underneath the tiles before attempting to remove them. Make sure to protect the window and frame to avoid any damage.
You could easily place a WOOD sill directly on top of it. This is a less invasive option than removing the tile. Just cover it up.
Is the way to go every single day. Just box it in.
Funky …
You know it’s not just about the top of the sill, but also the casing underneath to make it look right.
Oh yeah, the sill and shoe need some attention, definitely has a funky vibe like a disco from the 80s 🙂 by .
Once the item is removed, you should consider replacing it with a wooden piece
If there’s space, you might be able to place an apron over it. If not, remove the preparation and then install a wood sill with an apron. You could also consider adding picture trim if the windows only have drywall returns. This project can be fun, with a variety of trim finishes and looks to choose from.
Oh, I love my 1950 window sill tiles. They’re fantastic. Especially when a bit of rain seeps in.