Q: We bought a fixer-upper that has 2,300 square feet of Saltillo tile flooring that weβre going to replace. After remodelers removed the kitchen tile, we realized what a disaster this would be β dusty and messy. So how should we go about removing the rest β some thatβs on our concrete slab and some on an underlay? Some people say keep chipping away with a cold chisel; others say thereβs a machine that will do the job. We plan to remove the rest of the tile ourselves, but weβll have an expert put in the new flooring.
A:Β Saltillo tile is the messiest tile to remove of all. Iβd suggest renting an electric chipping hammer from a rental outlet. It will take you some practice though to figure out just how to hold the blade of this machine onto the floor so you will not chip up the concrete when you work on the tile. However, if you do chip up some of the concrete slab, it can be fixed with a concrete patch. Be sure to tell the rental company that you are removing Saltillo tile so that they give you the right type of equipment. While youβre working, wear protective knee pads and dust masks, and protect your personal belongings and electronics from the dust that is created.
For more do-it-yourself tips, go to rosieonthehouse.com. An Arizona homebuilding and remodeling industry expert for 25 years, Rosie Romero is the host of the syndicated Saturday morning Rosie on the House radio program, heard locally from 8-11 a.m. on KNST-AM (790) in Tucson and KGVY-AM (1080) and -FM (100.7) in Green Valley. Call 888-767-4348.
