How to Remove Granite Tiles Without Breaking

Pulling up the granite without damaging it is a simple task when you use the right tools and correct procedures.

1. Set the tip of a flat-head screwdriver along one of the grout lines. Hammer lightly on the handle of the screwdriver with a rubber mallet until the grout cracks. Hammer until you break all the way through to the concrete floor beneath the tile.

2. Slide the screwdriver over ¼ inch and angle the screwdriver so it is pointing toward the first crack. Hammer again until a ¼-inch piece of grout breaks free. Repeat this process until all of the grout has been knocked loose.

3. Remove the broken grout with your hands or a broom and discard.

4. Slide a putty knife underneath a granite tile. Jiggle the handle of the putty knife until it slides freely underneath the tile. Slide a pry bar underneath the tile and press gently to lift the tile from the floor. Repeat this process for all tiles.

5. Lay the tiles face-down on a tarp. Spread adhesive remover on the back of each tile with an old paintbrush. Allow the adhesive remover to sit on the surface of the tiles for 30 minutes or according to the package instructions.

6. Scrape the back of each tile with a metal scraper to remove the softened adhesive. Rinse the tiles with clean water to remove the chemical residue.