Replacing tile takes a while. Between planning the layout, removing old tile and everything that comes with it, you might wonder who’s responsible for what. Will your flooring installer in Buffalo remove the old tile? In Buffalo, yes. However, removal is quoted separately from installation so be sure to clarify what’s included in the price you’re given before signing a contract.
What does old tile removal involve? What does it cost? How do you keep your project on track from demolition to installation? We’ll answer all those questions and more shortly!
When it comes time to remove old tile, there’s more to do than prying up a few pieces. Professional flooring removal in Buffalo, NY involves the following steps:
Tile and Grout Demolition: Breaking up and removing all existing tile and grout from the surface takes a lot. It involves using specialized tools like rotary hammers and floor scrapers to remove the tile without damaging the subfloor.
Thinset and Adhesive Removal: The mortar and adhesive beneath the tile has to be removed and ground down to create a smooth, flat surface for the new tile. It’s the most labor-intensive part of the removal process.
Subfloor Inspection: After removing the tiles, the team inspects the subfloor for damage, moisture issues or unevenness before laying down the new tile.
Debris Disposal: The demolished material is bagged up, hauled out and disposed of. Tile debris is heavy and a typical bathroom can leave behind hundreds of pounds of waste.
The Buffalo-based flooring professionals at Tontine Carpet One have been handling tile projects in Buffalo for over 90 years. Our installation teams do it all. From removal to final grouting, we don’t force you to coordinate multiple contractors or worry about what’s included.
Removing tile in Buffalo generally costs $2 to $7 per square foot. The price can vary due to several factors including:
Tile Flooring: Ceramic and porcelain tiles are often easier to remove than natural stone or tiles set in thick mortar beds. Older installations with strong adhesive bonds require more labor.
Subfloor Conditions: If the subfloor is damaged or the adhesive is stubborn, additional prep work can increase the cost of removal.
Accessibility: Tight spaces, stairs and upper floors take longer because it’s more difficult to remove debris and handle materials.
Disposal Fees: Some installers include disposal in their quote, while others charge an additional fee. Clarify this upfront.
A Buffalo bathroom is generally 50-75 square feet. That’s why you can expect tile removal to add $150 to $525 to your project. In the case of larger spaces like kitchens or basements, you can expect to pay more.
Some homeowners think DIY tile removal is a quick way to save some cash, but it isn’t that simple. While not impossible, you have to consider the pros and cons:
Pros of DIY Removal:
Saves $2-$7 per square foot on labor
Can work on your own timeline
Cons of DIY Removal:
Physically demanding and time-consuming
Risk of damaging subfloor or underlayment
Requires renting specialized tools
Heavy debris disposal is challenging
Dust and mess throughout your home
Potential exposure to asbestos in Buffalo homes (pre-1980s tiles)
Generally, professional tile removal is worth it in Buffalo. Experienced crews work faster, protect your subfloor and properly dispose of old tile. Additionally, if the crew damages anything during removal, they will be responsible for fixing it before installation day.
When you work with Tontine Carpet One, you’ll notice the difference. Our team will take care of every step of your tile flooring project, from removal to installation. We serve West Seneca, Orchard Park, Hamburg and the Buffalo area with transparent pricing that includes removal so you don’t have to worry about surprises or hidden fees.
Before you hire a tiler in Buffalo, you should clarify the details about the removal process. Ask these questions:
Is old tile removal included in your quote or separate?
What’s the per-square-foot cost for removal?
Is debris disposal included?
Will you inspect and repair the subfloor if needed?
How do you handle potential asbestos in older tiles?
Having all the information you need upfront will get you accurate pricing every time. That’s why we provide detailed estimates that cover every part of your project because you should deserve to know what you’re paying for.
Why should you worry about separately coordinating tile removal and installation? Instead, you should choose a tiler in Buffalo that does both. At Tontine Carpet One, we do it all. Our team will remove old tile, install beautiful new tile and everything in between. We also back all of our projects with our Beautiful Guarantee®.
Ready to explore your tile options? Contact us or visit our West Seneca showroom today!