CPMY 48 head sink and backsplash tile removal

[To the dark side]

I'm in the process of ordering and replacing the old brass faucets and blue sink.

I've read it's a challenge to remove the backsplash 4" tiles from the gelcoat. I have a fein tool. Not sure if that helps. I'm guessing the tiles on the counter are glued directly to the plywood underneath. I can replace the plywood but I worry about damaging the gelcoat. I am going to put in another backsplash if the old comes off and leaves it smooth in behind.

Any thoughts?

 

[To the dark side]

Bump. Anyone?

 

[Comodave]

I would try hitting the tiles in the center of each tike and see if they crack and start to come loose. The multi tool isn’t the first tool I would reach for. I woule cover the gelcoat immediately above the tile to provide some protection to the gel coat. Then I would use a sharpened putty knife and try using it to chisel the tile off. Keep in mind if you do damage the gel coat above the old tile you can always use a bit larger tile to cover the damage.

 

[CharlieO.]

I would probably score the gelcoat just at the top of the tiles to prevent any cracking or chipping going above the tiles

 

[mvweebles]

Bump. Anyone?

A picture would really help.....

Peter

 

[Comodave]

Photos always help…

 

[To the dark side]

Thanks for the responses. I have attached a single picture which gives an idea of what I'm looking at. I've never dealt with pulling tile from Gelcoat or directly from wood, which I believe this is mounted to.

Suggestions most welcomed.

 

[Comodave]

The horizontal tiles are probably over plywood or the like and not over gel coat there. I still think that I would take a putty knife and either file it sharp or grind it sharp. Then use it as a chisel and try to work it under the tiles. Maybe putting the putty knife umder the tile and then tapping with a hammer while gently prying with the putty knife. The tile may crack then.

 

[To the dark side]

The horizontal tiles are probably over plywood or the like and not over gel coat there. I still think that I would take a putty knife and either file it sharp or grind it sharp. Then use it as a chisel and try to work it under the tiles. Maybe putting the putty knife umder the tile and then tapping with a hammer while gently prying with the putty knife. The tile may crack then.

Most helpful, thank you. Definitely plywood under horizontal. That part is easy as the plywood can easily be replaced.

On the vertical someone mentioned scoring above the tile to limit gelcoat cracks. Worst case, I can alway get someone to properly finish any damage to gelcoat.

Thank you!

 

[Comodave]

You can always go with a larger tile or even a solid syrface product. I like quartz too. Easy to make a template and take it to a fabricator and then you install it. Very easy to install with some silicone. I don’t use silicone for much else on a boat. I fabricated solid surface countertops for the galley in our last boat. Easy to do.

 

[mvweebles]

Scoring gel coat is a good idea. Depending on adhesive, vertical tiles may pop off fairly easily. Also note there are a variety of different putty knives from very thin and flexible to more of a thin chisel who's blade extends through the handle and is designed to be struck by a hammer. Having a selection would give a chance to see what works best.

Peter

 

[To the dark side]

Gentlemen, this is unbelievably helpful and I can't thank you enough. Love the subway tile backsplash.