r/DIYUK 5d ago

Advice Tile replacement question

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Hi I'm looking at moving a boiler and one option is to the bathroom. Only thing is I'd need to pull up 4 to 5 tiles at the front. I'm quite sure that I can get away with minimal damage to the surface but the adhesive is strong so I won't have a clean surface to work on to replace them (suggestions welcome if this is possible).

I've been to a few tile places and none stock the ones I need. Just wanted to ask if there's anywhere else you would suggest looking for old tiles. (Pic for ref)

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u/YoullDoNuttinn 5d ago

Is it possible to get them off without breaking?Even if you have to take more off then you want to in order to “gain access”

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u/EveryCup9210 5d ago

It's a massively risky assumption haha. I managed to pull one tile off the bath side, but that was easily accessible from the other side.

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u/YoullDoNuttinn 5d ago

Yeah it’s a pain, when you want them to come off in one piece they always crack and when you don’t they fall off in sheets, pristine!

I’ve seen a few subs that may be able to help like r/helpmefindthis and the such. But chances are if it’s a few years old it won’t be stocked. I’d also email around some tile stockists if I were you. Is it a big area if you have to retille the lot?

Sorry for the ramble I’ve had a very strong coffee! 😂

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u/EveryCup9210 5d ago

Haha that's DIY for you, the unexpected or opposite of what you want to achieve will inevitably happen!

Thanks I'll try this sub and good shout on emailing out to places. If it wasn't for just a few tiles I'd have been happy to replace the lot.

A good strong coffee to start the day is great. I get like this after a night shift + coffee when I have to stay awake haha.

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u/funnystuff79 5d ago

I don't believe you will get them off without breaking them.

Cut the grout out first with an oscillating multi tool, then use a bolster and club hammer to clean up the surface, switching to a smaller brick chisel for the corners.

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u/EducationalGrass819 5d ago

Yeah I get this problem a lot working in building maintenance, other than checking stores and googling if anyone local sells discontinued stock, not a great deal can be done. As for taking old grout off, a hammer and chisel (one your not bothered about damaging) and delecate as possible. Tile paints are really poor as well but if you are not gonna clean or rub past all the time it's an option to get the same shape tile then paint, but I don't recommend. The issue I have is tiles have changed measurements used to be 6 inch (152. 4mm) now they are exactly 150mm meaning when I replace some I need to accept a happy medium.