How to Remove Thinset From Wood

Thinset cement is applied to wooden subfloors before ceramic tile is installed. When the thinset hardens, it creates a secure bond between each ceramic tile and the subflooring below. If you decide to change your flooring, you must remove the existing ceramic tiles and the hardened thinset. All types of flooring adhere best to flat surfaces.

While you can break apart most varieties of dried mortar with a hammer, using a hammer on thinset can damage your wooden subfloor. You must employ gentler methods to remove the thinset while simultaneously protecting your wooden subfloor.

Cold chisel
Hammer
Broom
Carbide sanding disc
Orbital sander
Tack cloth

Instructions

- 1
  Position the tip of the cold chisel beneath the edge of the thinset. Strike the chisel's base gently with the hammer. This drives the flat chisel tip between the thinset and your subfloor, breaking it apart.
- 2
  Work in sections, breaking up as much of the hardened thinset as possible with the cold chisel and hammer.
- 3
  Sweep away the broken pieces of thinset with a broom.
- 4
  Attach a carbide sanding disc to the orbital sander.
- 5
  Turn on the sander. Move the sander slowly back and forth across the thinset, breaking it apart. For best results, start at the corner of the room and work your way outward. This ensures you do not miss any thinset.
- 6
  Sweep away any small chunks of thinset the sander dislodged. Give the sanding dust several hours to settle on the wooden subfloor. Wipe away the settled mortar dust with a tack cloth.

How to Hide a Sump Pit in a Basement

How to Install an End Cap in Laminate Flooring

Floors