How to Replace a Backsplash Without Removing the Cabinets

A tile backsplash is typically placed right under cabinetry, and does not extend beneath the back of a cabinet. In the off chance that cabinets were hung over a backsplash, it is still possible to replace the tile without having to remove all the cabinetry. Special care during the removal process will be necessary to avoid damaging the wall underneath the backsplash and behind the cabinetry, or you may end up having to remove the cabinets after all.

Safety glasses
Grout scraper
Hammer
Chisel
Rotary saw
Drywall knife
Mortar
Textured trowel
Grout spacers
Grout

Instructions

- 1
  Protect your eyes with safety glasses. This project will require breaking tile and you do not want a sharp shard in your eye.
- 2
  Break off the main section of backsplash tile with a hammer. Tap the tile with your hammer to break it. Chip it off the wall with a chisel. Work row by row until you get up underneath the cabinet.
- 3
  Use a rotary saw with a ceramic tile blade to cut away tile underneath the cabinet. If the tile extends beneath the back of the cabinet, saw through the part of the tile that is exposed. Give yourself a clean edge right at the bottom of the cabinet so that the new tile will be seamless.
- 4
  Remove the adhesive from the wall with adhesive remover and a putty knife. Paint the adhesive remover onto the wall. Let it set for 10 minutes. Scrape off the adhesive with a plastic putty knife.
- 5
  Apply mortar to the wall with your trowel. Lay down a thin coating of mortar, approximately a quarter inch thick, where the new backsplash will go. Flip the trowel over and use the textured side to score the mortar.
- 6
  Press your tiles into the mortar firmly. Place grout spacers on the top, bottom and sides of each tile.
- 7
  Grout between the tiles. Remove the grout spacers as you go and lay down a bead of grout between all the tiles. Wipe off any excess with a damp cloth.

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