how do I remove old thin set mortar because I want to put new tile.?

Question

We were able to remove old ceramic tile but the mortar under it is very stuck to concrete slab.

Answer 1

Rent a electric chipping hammer from a tool rental store or home center. Works great. Spent my weekend removing tile and thin set. Makes a big mesh, but it goes quick!

Answer 2

Most large Home stores sell at least two tools for this purpose.

After installing thousands of Sq. Ft. of tile, and often having to remove old,,,and mortar, I left my hand tools in the box and bought a "scraper" Chisel type on a long handle,,,Kinda like a broom handle length. It is heavy duty, I can stand and walk as opposed to squat and crawl, and I can usually get the floor smooth enough in a short time to re-apply more thinset.

I use 1/4 inch beads at least, and after sweeping the old dust and debri,,, that thickness allows smooth, level, laying of any tile I've ever installed.

Rev. Steven

Answer 3

always remove old mortar... you need a fresh start every time since you have to make sure it is level.... and besides using the old one does not guarantee that it wont let go at some point and the tiles will crack

Answer 4

Put on some safety goggles, grab a hammer and chisel, and start chipping it away. You want a chisel with a wide blade and a hand guard. Wider is better -- a thin chisel could chip the concrete and you don't want that.