A dated backsplash can make a perfectly good kitchen look old. Replacing it costs a fraction of new cabinets or counters and changes the room immediately.
The removal is the delicate part. Tile comes off the wall with force, right next to countertops, cabinets and appliances you want to keep.
How We Remove an Old Backsplash
We cover counters with protective board, mask cabinets and appliances, and cut the caulk line at the counter so nothing is pried against the stone. Tile is taken off in sections. If it was set on drywall with mastic, the paper face usually tears, and we cut out and replace that strip of drywall rather than tile over a damaged surface.
If you have a short stone backsplash strip glued to the wall, it can normally be removed too, which gives a cleaner line for the new tile.
Preparing for the New Tile
A fresh, flat wall is what makes the new backsplash look right.
- New drywall or patching where the old surface was damaged
- Skim coating to flatten the wall for small or glossy tile
- Outlet boxes extended to suit the new tile thickness
- Checking the countertop for level and planning the first row around it
Choosing What Goes Up
Popular replacements include a subway tile backsplash for a clean reset, or a mosaic or glass tile backsplash for more texture. Bring a cabinet door or a countertop sample when choosing tile so the colors can be compared in the same light.
Need something else? See all of our kitchen backsplash installation services, or learn more about your local tile contractor in Arlington, VA.
