Learning

Tips on How to Successfully Remove Old Tiles From Your Walls

Tips on How to Remove Old Tiles From Your Walls

Tiles are a wonderful way of decorating your walls. They are hard-wearing, easy to wipe down, and long-lasting. The only downside is that when or if you choose to redecorate it can be a huge hassle to remove the old tiles.

We’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll tell you how to remove those old tiles and clean up your walls ready for a new coat of paint or tiles.

Tools Required:

Thin chisel
Hammer
Safety goggles
Gloves
Sturdy shoes

As you can see, removing tiles doesn’t require a lot of tools. You will need to cover up any furnishings. This is particularly important if you’re redecorating the bathroom. Falling tiles can break porcelain bathroom suites.

Cardboard works wonders for protecting your suite. Place flattened boxes on your toilet, shower, bath, and skink before covering them with a dust sheet.

Step 1: Safety First

Before you go anywhere near the tiles with your hammer and chisel, you need to prepare yourself for the shrapnel that will come flying at you.

Safety goggles are a must. You’ll need goggles over glasses as glasses usually don’t cover the sides of your eyes and can allow chips into your eyes.

You will also want to wear gloves. The gloves mainly protect your hands from chaffing on the tools or getting cut by sharp bits of tile.

They will offer some limited protection from a bang with the hammer, but ultimately it’s best to avoid hitting your fingers!

The gloves shouldn’t impede your dexterity too much because you’ll still need to hold smaller tools and get your fingers behind tiles.

You won’t necessarily need steel toe cap boots to remove tiles. However, if you plan on using sledgehammers then they are recommended. Otherwise, make sure you have sturdy soled shoes that won’t be penetrated by sharp tile fragments.

A dust mask is strongly recommended when removing tiles because dust can be created by broken tiles.

Anyone who is going to help you should also be kitted out in the same fashion.

Step 2: Protect Your Porcelain

Whether you’re removing tiles from the wall in the bathroom, kitchen, or hallway you’re bound to have furniture and fittings that you’ll need to protect.

As mentioned above, cardboard is good for preventing dents and scrapes. Dust sheets will help reduce the clean up later on.

Step 3: The First Tile

Removing the first tile is the most difficult step as you don’t have any gaps to get your chisel into.

Try finding a loose corner that you can work your chisel into. Tap the corners with the butt of the hammer to see if any of them wiggle.

If there are no loose tiles, or you simply can’t be bothered to go around tapping edges, you’ll have to smash a tile.

Place the chisel in the centre of a tile and give it a good whack with the hammer. This will cause the tile to shatter. Pieces will likely fall off the wall which will then allow you to remove the rest with your chisel.

Step 4: Follow the Gaps

With one tile off the wall, you should now have access to the gaps behind the rest of the tiles.

To remove a tile, put the chisel behind a tile and give it a tap with the hammer. The aim is to lodge the chisel behind the tile.

If the tile doesn’t pop off straight away, you’ll need to pull the chisel towards you. Essentially you need to lever the tile off the wall.

When the tile does come away it is going to drop to the floor. If you want to avoid bits of smashed tile all over the place, have someone there to catch the tiles as they fall.

Don’t worry if some of the tiles do not come off whole. They may have cracked or chipped over the years causing them to fall apart when they are prized away from the wall.

If the tiling goes up to the ceiling you will need a ladder to remove the higher tiles. Be careful when on the ladder. Don’t overstretch yourself. It’s better to keep going up and down the ladder than to fall off!

Step 5: Clean Up

Once the tiles are off the wall you’ll no doubt notice bits of grouting and adhesive still clinging to the wall. This will need to be removed before the wall can be retiled or plastered.

Use the chisel and hammer to chip away at the adhesive. It should come away fairly easy but try to avoid damaging the surface of the wall while you do this.

When it comes to clearing up the old tiles you’re better off putting them in a cardboard box rather than a refuse sack. The sharp edges will rip the bag.

If the tiles are still intact you could reuse them or pass them on to someone else. Otherwise, you can dispose of them with your standard household waste.

If you put a dust sheet down you should be able to just pick it up and tip the debris into a bin. If you didn’t put a dust sheet down, you’d need to use a dustpan and brush to get all the shards and dust up off the floor.

Other Options

The old hammer and chisel is a traditional choice. It gets the job done and it does it well. However, if you’re looking for something a bit quicker or something that requires less effort you could consider the following:

Sledgehammer – A sledgehammer will make short work of your wall or floor tiles. It is a messy tool but it will get the job done quickly.
Rotary impact hammer – This is similar to a corded drill. Many drills have a hammer function. Essentially it uses the rotational force to strike whatever is in front of it. It will smash apart tiles easily but it can get quite heavy in the hand.
Pry Bars – These are usually used for removing floor tiles because they remove the need to bend or kneel on the ground.

Final Thoughts

Thankfully, removing tiles is a fairly simple process. You don’t need a lot of skill, just a bit of brute strength. Alternative, you could hire an expert such as Tech Tiles to remove them for your professionally.

Learning

First-Time Buyer’s Guide to the UK Property Market

Entering the UK property market as a first-time buyer can feel both exciting and daunting. The process is filled with potential pitfalls and complex decisions, but with the right guidance, it can be navigated smoothly. The estate agents in Yorkshire demystify the journey from the initial decision to buy a home to the moment you step over the threshold of your new property.

Understanding Your Financial Position

The first and perhaps most crucial step in the home-buying process is understanding your financial situation. This includes assessing your savings, income, and current debts. Here’s how you can prepare:

1. Deposit: Generally, you’ll need at least 5% of the property price as a deposit, though aiming for 10% or more can provide better mortgage rates.

2. Income and Expenses: Use a budget planner to assess your monthly income against your expenses. This will help you understand how much you can afford in monthly mortgage repayments.

3. Credit Score: Lenders will evaluate your credit score to determine your mortgage eligibility. So it’s important to have a good credit score, and you should work on it if required.

4. Mortgage Options: Speak to a mortgage advisor to understand different types of mortgages, such as fixed-rate, variable-rate, and help-to-buy schemes.

Getting a Mortgage Agreement in Principle

A Mortgage Agreement in Principle (AIP) is a statement from a lender indicating how much they’ll likely lend you. You will be a more attractive buyer with an AIP as it shows sellers you’re serious and financially prepared.

Deciding What You Want

Before you start viewing properties, it’s essential to know what you’re looking for. Consider the following factors:

1. Location: Proximity to work, schools, public transport, and amenities are key. Research neighbourhoods to find the best fit for your lifestyle.

2. Property Type: Decide whether you want a flat, terraced house, semi-detached, or detached property. Each has its pros and cons.

3. Must-Haves: Make a list of non-negotiables, such as the number of bedrooms, garden size, and parking facilities.

4. Future Proofing: Consider your future needs. Are you planning to start a family? Do you need space for a home office?

Starting the Property Search

With a clear idea of what you’re looking for, you can begin your property search. Here are some tips:

1. Use Online Portals: Websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and OnTheMarket are excellent starting points. Set up alerts to get notified of new listings that meet your criteria.

2. Visit Estate Agents: Register with local estate agents who can provide insights into the market and inform you of new properties before they’re listed online.

3. Attend Viewings: Don’t rush this part. Visit several properties to get a feel for what’s available in your price range.

Making an Offer

Once you find a property you love, it’s time to make an offer. Here’s how to approach it:

1. Research: Check the selling prices of similar properties in the area to gauge a fair offer.

2. Negotiate: Don’t be afraid to negotiate. The starting point is most usually the asking price.

3. Conditions: You might include conditions in your offer, such as the inclusion of certain fixtures or a specific moving date.

The Legal Process

If your offer is accepted, the legal process begins. You’ll need a solicitor or licensed conveyancer to handle the legalities. Here’s what to expect:

1. Conveyancing: This is the legal transfer of property ownership. Your solicitor will handle this, including conducting searches, dealing with the Land Registry, and transferring the funds.

2. Surveys and Inspections: Arrange for a property survey to check for structural issues. There are different types of surveys, from basic condition reports to full structural surveys.

3. Mortgage Finalisation: Once the survey is complete and satisfactory, your mortgage can be finalised.

4. Exchange of Contracts: This is when the sale becomes legally binding. You’ll pay your deposit at this stage.

5. Completion: On the agreed completion date, the remaining money is transferred, and you receive the keys to your new home.

Moving In

Moving day can be hectic, but planning can ease the stress:

1. Hire a Removal Company: Book a reliable removal company well in advance. Discover the best deals by getting quotes from multiple companies.

2. Pack Strategically: Label your boxes by room and keep essential items accessible.

3. Notify Utilities and Change Address: Inform your utility providers of your move date and update your address with banks, the DVLA, and other important institutions.

Settling In

Get settled. Introduce yourself to the neighbours, familiarise yourself with the local area, and really start to make the place your own.

Here are a few final tips:

1. Safety Checks: Make sure that your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are working, and make sure that you know where the gas and electricity meters are located.

2. Maintenance Plan: Keep a record of the smooth functioning of your new home with a maintenance schedule, complete with regular checks and seasonal tasks.

3. Personal Touches: Add personal touches to make the space feel like home. This can be from putting up family photos or redoing the decoration in your rooms.

Conclusion

Buying your very first home in the UK is most definitely a milestone, difficult and full of challenges but rewarding in the end. Such a philosophy guides you in understanding finances and knowing what you want to achieve from detailed research, and seeking professional advice that confidently helps you navigate the property market. Yes, the journey may have its hurdles, but in the end—owning your own home—the reward will be worth the effort. Welcome to your new chapter!

Learning

5 Health Benefits of Regular Pedicures

There’s nothing quite like a pedicure to keep your feet looking and feeling their best, but did you know that pedicures do more than simply enhance the appearance of your feet? Many people don’t realize that regular pedicures can come with a wide range of health benefits that can promote the well-being of your feet, so here are some ways that your routine pedicure keeps both your toenails and feet in the best condition possible!

Smoother Skin

One of the biggest misconceptions about pedicures is that they only cater to and look after your toenails. While you’ll definitely be leaving each session with a fresh coat of nail polish, your pedicure can also do wonders for the health of your skin. Aside from trimming and shaping your nails and cuticles, you’ll notice that your nail technician also dedicates a few steps to the skin of your feet.

After inspecting your feet and looking for any issues or imperfections that may need to be addressed, your technician will work on an exfoliating scrub to remove any dead skin cells. This step may also be aided by a foot file, which can be used to buff away any calluses and other problem areas manually.

Softer Skin

After your nail technician addresses all the problem areas of your feet and removes any unwanted dead skin cells, he or she will often massage in a moisturizing product, such as lotion, cream, or butter, to ensure that your skin is properly moisturized. These products contain skin-loving ingredients that will ensure that your feet have everything they need to look and feel their best so that you can walk out of your pedicure with a renewed sense of confidence.

Healthier Nails

After your pedicure session, your nails will not only look better due to the fresh coat of nail polish, but they’ll also be healthier and stronger. This is because your nail technician takes their time to ensure that your nails are properly looked after through steps that include deep cleaning, nail trimming, nail filing, and cuticle care. All of these things work together to prevent issues like ingrown nails from occurring, all the while improving the appearance of your nails.

Increased Blood Circulation

While the specific steps included in your pedicure will depend on the beauty salon, most pedicures will have a massage step somewhere in the mix. One of the often overlooked benefits of these massages is the increased blood circulation, which can deliver more nutrients and oxygen to your feet and nails, promoting their health and appearance. Aside from that, better blood flow means reduced tension and soreness, as well as better distributed heat throughout your body.

Reduced Infections

A significant amount of dirt and bacteria can build up on your feet without you even realizing it, but pedicures can be a great way to prevent these from happening in the first place. The exfoliation step of a pedicure removes dead skin cells as well as all the debris that may have accumulated underneath, and the deep cleaning of your toenails and cuticles also gets rid of any impurities that may have slipped beneath them, which can stop infections from happening.

These are some of the many health benefits that you can look forward to at your next pedicure appointment. However, it’s worth noting that you need to book regular sessions to truly reap all the rewards. This can be difficult, especially when you don’t feel like driving to your nearest nail salon after a long day, but the good news is that you can enjoy the salon experience in the comfort of your own home with a home pedicure service.

Learning

Commercial Boiler Installation Services London

For businesses in the bustling city of London, having a reliable heating system is crucial. Whether you’re opening a new office, expanding your current premises, or simply upgrading an outdated system, commercial boiler installation services for businesses in London are essential to ensure your operations run smoothly and efficiently. Proper installation and maintenance of commercial boilers can make a significant difference in energy efficiency, cost savings, and the overall comfort of your workspace.

The Importance of Professional Installation

When it comes to installing a commercial boiler, professional expertise is paramount. Here’s why:

Efficiency and Performance: Professional installation ensures that your boiler operates at peak efficiency, reducing energy consumption and lowering utility bills. A well-installed boiler can effectively meet the heating demands of your business without unnecessary energy waste.
Safety: Commercial boilers are complex systems that require precise installation to operate safely. Professional installers adhere to stringent safety standards and regulations, minimizing the risk of accidents and ensuring the safety of your employees and premises.
Compliance with Regulations: Commercial properties are subject to various building codes and regulations. Professional installers are well-versed in these requirements and ensure that your boiler system complies with all local laws and standards.
Longevity and Reliability: Proper installation is critical to the longevity and reliability of your boiler. A professional installation can prevent common issues such as leaks, pressure problems, and system failures, ensuring that your boiler runs smoothly for years to come.

Key Considerations for Commercial Boiler Installation

When planning for a commercial boiler installation, several factors need to be considered:

Type of Boiler: The type of boiler you choose will depend on your business’s specific needs. Options include gas boilers, oil boilers, and electric boilers, each with its own set of advantages. Consulting with a professional can help you determine the best choice for your business.
Sizing and Capacity: The boiler’s size and capacity must match the heating demands of your commercial space. An undersized boiler will struggle to meet your needs, while an oversized one will lead to inefficiencies and higher costs.
Location: The placement of your boiler affects its efficiency and accessibility for maintenance. Professional installers can help you choose the optimal location for your boiler.
Integration with Existing Systems: If you’re upgrading or replacing an existing boiler, it’s essential to ensure compatibility with your current heating system. Professional installers can seamlessly integrate the new boiler with your existing setup.

Choosing the Right Installation Service

Selecting the right installation service provider is crucial to the success of your boiler installation project. Consider the following when making your choice:

Experience and Expertise: Look for a provider with a proven track record in commercial boiler installations. Experienced installers can handle the complexities of commercial systems and provide high-quality workmanship.
Reputation: Check reviews and testimonials from previous clients to gauge the provider’s reliability and customer satisfaction.
Comprehensive Services: Choose a provider that offers a full range of services, including installation, maintenance, and repair. This ensures that all your boiler needs are met by a single, trusted source.

In London, ROWLEN is a reputable name known for delivering top-notch commercial boiler installation services. Their team of experts is dedicated to providing efficient, safe, and compliant installations tailored to the unique needs of businesses.

Conclusion

Investing in professional commercial boiler installation services for businesses in London is essential for ensuring efficiency, safety, and long-term reliability. By choosing an experienced and reputable service provider like ROWLEN, you can rest assured that your heating system will be installed correctly and maintained to the highest standards. Proper installation not only enhances the performance of your boiler but also contributes to the overall comfort and productivity of your business environment.

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