Can anyone offer guidance on removing backsplash and retexturing walls for a first-time DIY project?
Asked by Tilde Sørensen 
3 months ago
Last Updated: August 19, 2024
Could someone give me some advice on how to remove this backsplash? I’m thinking about changing it up and using a different material, so I’ll need to retexture the wall since the new tile won’t go as high. Any beginner tips would be greatly appreciated!
To begin, use a chisel/hammer to take out the tile. Try to keep the tile as intact as possible. You’ll likely need to replace the Sheetrock and consider scoring it around the backsplash beforehand to prevent damage to the painted walls.
For texture matching, check out YouTube for some helpful tutorials on the topic.
So, , it sounds like I might just need to replace the drywall?
Shared from her experience.
Chris Stamps – Remember to try to keep the tiles as large as possible and resist the temptation to smash them with a hammer!
– Even when you’re careful, you may still end up with big pieces of Sheetrock paper missing, which means you’ll have to patch and skim coat. Doesn’t seem very beginner friendly. Finishing single seams is easier.
Are you looking to repurpose the tiles in some way?
‘t forget to prioritize safety by wearing safety glasses – they should be your number one accessory for this project.
Absolutely !
Remember the larger the demo area, the better your bargaining power and make sure to protect items you want to keep undamaged. ‘t forget to use a shop vac with a HEPA filter.
Maybe try painting the tile to see if you like it before going with plan B and removing it. Just a suggestion!
Try using a chisel and hammer to see if you can remove them.
Here’s a great and simple way. Skip breaking it. Use a multi-tool oscillator around the perimeter, and gently pry it out in three sections. Make sure to find a stud to avoid damaging the upper sheetrock. Replace it with new sheetrock, a method I use frequently.
Awesome job , way to keep things tidy and start fresh.
Yes, that’s the plan! Plus, you don’t need to be a drywall expert since it will be covered in thinset anyway.
I don’t have any experience with that… what’s the process for connecting the new drywall to the existing one?
Is using drywall screws to attach to the studs. Are you planning on tiling over it?
If we remove the drywall, we’ll tile over it. And we’ll need to redo the texture in the area that won’t be tiled since we’re not going up as high as the previous owners did.
When replacing the backsplash, it’s best to use 1/2″ dura rock cement board. You may need to skim the surface with thinset first for a smoother finish and less “lippage.”
Try using a multitool to carefully remove the damaged drywall, then install new drywall and re-tile. It’s an easy and efficient way to update your space while also allowing you to add a new outlet if needed.
I’m new to drywall, any tips on joining it to the existing wall?
Hey , you can just use 1 1/4” drywall screws and screw them into the stud. When you’re cutting the drywall pieces, just make sure the edges of the sheet you’re working with land on a stud. Remember, every seam needs a stud to keep things secure. This will make installing a new backsplash super easy. Trying to remove existing tile can be messy, but if it’s part of the drywall it will come off as a single panel – pretty cool, right?
That’s exactly what I was thinking too
Thank you so much, !
My recommendation would be to carefully scribe above the tile on all three walls and then remove the tile along with the drywall. Just make sure to protect the sink and counter to avoid any damage.
If I were to tackle this project, do I need to cover the seam between the new drywall and the old drywall? Also, should I add texture to the wall before tiling, or after? This is the look I’m aiming for with the new tile.
Personally, I suggest starting with blending the texture before tiling.
Texture and paint should be done as the final step.
Put a towel and maybe some bubble wrap on the counter. Use a painter’s multi-purpose tool and a hammer to gently tap behind the tile and loosen it. It should pop off, but it depends on how it was installed. The smaller tiles might be connected with mesh in 12-inch squares. Take your time.
It’s likely that it was placed directly on the sheetrock – you can slowly and carefully remove it using a multi tool and hammer.
Cut around the edges and take out both the tile and drywall.
If you only take out the tile, you’ll still be left with a damaged wall to fix, and that would be a hassle.
If it’s drywall or a painted surface, it should come off easily. I did this just yesterday. Take a thin 1-1/2” putty knife and gently tap it along the length until it’s slightly behind it, then peel it off smoothly. It might take some wall with it, but it will all be covered when you install the new tile. If the area outside the tile is damaged, patch it up with drywall compound, sand, prime, and paint before grouting. Remember to use thinset instead of the pre-mixed tile adhesive for faster setting.
Cut the drywall right next to the splash using a multi-tool and remove the tile and drywall together. Then, replace the drywall, mud/tape, and work on the new splash without having to remove the cabinet. This way, you’ll have less tape/mud work to do.
One issue to consider is that if you remove and replace a section of the wall, the new sheetrock may not match the existing walls perfectly. This can make coordinating a backsplash a bit more challenging, as it will need to be the same size as the new section.
I would suggest trying to gently pry off the tile first. However, it seems that the drywall underneath might be too damaged for skim coating. Still, give it a shot as it might save you from having to replace the drywall. It all depends on how well the tile is glued and whether the glue is dried up. Feel free to message me directly if you need guidance through the process.