When it comes time to remove old tile and thinset from a floor or wall, having the right tools for the job will make the process significantly easier. Tile thinset, also known as mortar, is a cement-based adhesive that is used to affix tile to surfaces. It creates a very strong bond and can be difficult to remove once it has cured. Selecting the best tool for removing tile and thinset will depend on a few factors, including how much area needs to be scraped, the type of surface the tile is adhered to, and how thick the layer of thinset is.
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Should I Use a Chisel or Scraper?
For small thinset removal jobs, a manual chisel or heavy-duty scraper may be sufficient. Use a cold chisel to chip away at the thinset and lift off pieces of tile. Hold the chisel at a 45-degree angle against the surface and tap it lightly with a hammer. A quality carbide scraper can also be used to peel up the thinset after chipping away tiles. However, this is generally only effective for very thin layers of mortar less than 1/4″ thick. If the thinset layer is thicker, opt for a more powerful removal method.
When to Use a Grinder or Sander
For larger scale thinset removal jobs, using a grinder or sander will help efficiently peel up and smooth down the surface. With an angle grinder, select a diamond cup wheel attachment specifically designed for removing thinset or concrete. Grinders with dust collection systems are ideal for keeping the workspace clean. Start by scoring the area with passes of the grinder, then chip away pieces with a chisel. For thick layers of thinset, you may need to make multiple grinding passes to get down to the subsurface. Take safety precautions against flying debris and silica dust.
As an alternative to grinders, an orbital sander can be used to sand down thinset on surfaces like plywood or cement board. Use an OSHA-approved silica dust mask and safety goggles during sanding. Start with a coarse grit sandpaper like 40 to 60-grit to aggressively level and smooth the thinset. Then switch to finer 80-120 grit sandpaper to polish and feather the edges.
When to Use a Tile Scabbler
For professional whole-room thinset removal, a pneumatic tile scabbler is the most efficient electric power tool. The scabbler pounds the surface with pneumatic chiseling bits that pulverize the thinset so it can be swept and vacuumed up. This is the best option for removing thinset over very large areas like full floors or walls. It provides more power and is less labor-intensive than using a manual chisel and hammer or grinder. Tile scabblers can remove thinset layers up to 1-2” thick.
Chemical Thinset Removers
In some cases, chemical removers may help soften the thinset bond prior to mechanically scraping. However, chemical removers alone will not fully remove thinset down to the subsurface. Alkaline-based stripping agents help break down cementitious materials. Apply a thick layer, let it soak for 30-60 minutes, then scrape away softened thinset. Repeat as needed. Be sure to neutralize the chemicals and rinse the surface after use. While this can aid removal, scraping and grinding are still required.
Thinset Removal Tool Comparison
| Tool | Best for… | Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| Chisel and hammer | Small areas, thin layers of thinset | Labor-intensive for large jobs |
| Carbide scraper | Scraping small patches, smoothing | Only removes very thin layers |
| Angle grinder | Medium to large jobs, thicker thinset layers | Creates dust, safety equipment required |
| Orbital sander | Smoothing thinset on surfaces like plywood or concrete board | Does not remove layers thicker than 1/4″ |
| Tile scabbler | Large professional jobs, thick buildup | High equipment cost, produces debris |
| Chemical stripper | Soften thinset prior to scraping | Does not fully remove, multiple applications required |
As the table summarizes, the best thinset removal method depends primarily on the size of the job and thickness of the buildup. For DIY projects less than 25 square feet, manual scraping and grinding are likely sufficient. For professionals tackling hundreds of square feet, utilize a power tool like a tile scabbler for fast removal. Wear proper safety gear and contain dust no matter the tool. And remember to prep and smooth the subsurface after thinset removal in order to prepare for new tile.
Conclusion
Removing tile thinset when renovating or redoing a tiled surface is an important but potentially difficult task. The right tools make the difference between an easy thinset removal job and one that takes days of back-breaking work. While using a chisel and hammer provides good precision for small jobs, electric tools like grinders, sanders and scabblers boost productivity especially as the area increases. Consider factors like the thinset thickness, underlying surface, debris and dust control, area size, and professional vs DIY job when selecting an optimal thinset removal method. With the proper preparation and tools, you can take on thinset removal and get a surface ready for new tile.