Removing Tile From Terrazzo Floor

Often times when a chipping hammer is used to remove tile from terrazzo scars and marks are left in the floor.

Removing tile from terrazzo floor.

Always use a wide chipping hammer head and chisel. It s also important to sweep the area after completing an area to be sure you re not digging holes in the terrazzo floor. Work the chisel under the tiles forcing them loose. To remove floor tile start by finding a spot on the floor where the grout is coming loose or the tile is chipped away.

Lift the adhesive by scraping gently with the putty knife to remove the larger pieces of adhesive. You will need to use a hammer drill which functions as a mini jackhammer to remove most ot the terrazzo. Strike the face of stubborn tiles to break them up for easier removal. Mix one part water based floor stripper the same kind used for vinyl tile or polymer finishes with six parts water and apply to the stained area.

Pop the tile off the floor and never allow the chipping hammer to sit in one place. Almost any terrazzo floor can be restored even if it has ghosting a grid pattern or damage from chipping hammers. Do not gouge or chip the terrazzo. In some cases the only way to tear out the ceramic tile is with heavy equipment such as a jackhammer or air chisel.

Removing a terrazzo floor is a bit trickier than other types of tile floors because the tiles themselves are so heavy and thick. Always wear safety glasses when removing ceramic tile. Start at a broken tile or between tiles where the grout has loosened. Sometimes they can me ground out while other times they must be filled with an aggregate and a binder to match the existing terrazzo floor.

Many homeowners will gouge and dig holes all over the floor unknowingly. Use a ball peen or masonry hammer and cold chisel to tap the pieces free. Allow five minutes dwell time. If there are no cracks or loose grout you can hit a tile with the chisel so that it breaks.

Begin with the blade of the knife at the bottom of the adhesive rocking the blade gently back and forth to loosen the adhesive. Use a 3 4 or 1 in. Agitate the solution with a green scrubbing pad. Masonry chisel and a 2 lb.