Removal of Ceramic Tile and Reuse

[Art Todesco]

I have a kitchen with 8" ceramic tiles. There is one spot, in particular, where 4 or 5 of the tiles are cracked. I went to the tile store and they "no longer make that tile." They did have a close 2nd, however, it does look a little different. If I could safely remove a few tiles from a less conspicuous place and install them where the cracked tile are presently, it would look a whole lot better. The new tiles could then be used to replace the removed tiles. Does anyone know of a way to remove tiles in one piece? BTW, there is unfinished basement below. And, the original tile was put down with thin set. Thanks.

[hallerb]

you will likely break more attempting to remove them. if thats critical you likely better off hiring a tile guy.

and no matter what you MUST address why the original tiles cracked. likely bad substrate.

you have scrape all grout out, then get behind and pry off wall. hopefully someone can better describe it than me.

try other tile suppliers and sometimes tile repair guys have old tiles that may be a better match.

I have done it twice after seeing it done.

[rick.webuse]

It will be difficult to get them up in one piece if they are not already loose. My experience is about 50 - 50. If you can get a flat bar under the edge and slowly knock it further in under the tile - they may pop.

As stated above, you need to deal with what is causing the cracking before placing new tiles - chances are they will crack also. My thoughts are inadequate sub-floor.

[beecrofter]

You will break so many of the old tiles doing this that there will be enough of the new tiles to make the pattern seem intentional!