Removing adhesive tiles from your floor in Dubai can be a daunting task, especially if the tiles have been glued down for years. Whether you are renovating a villa, apartment, or commercial space, improper removal can damage your subfloor, create unnecessary mess, and cost you more time and money.
In this guide, we will explain how to remove adhesive tiles from floors in Dubai safely and efficiently, answer common questions, and provide professional floor tips from experts at Rare Home Decor.
Why Removing Adhesive Tiles Properly Matters
Adhesive tiles, also known as glue-down vinyl or ceramic tiles, stick firmly to the floor. Simply pulling them up can:
- Damage your subfloor
- Leave behind stubborn adhesive residue
- Cause uneven surfaces for your new flooring
- Create dust and debris
Proper removal ensures that your floor is smooth, clean, and ready for new flooring installation.
Tools You Need to Remove Adhesive Tiles
Before starting, gather the right tools. Professional companies like Rare Home Decor use specialized equipment for efficient tile and adhesive removal. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Utility knife or scraper
- Heat gun or hair dryer
- Floor adhesive remover or chemical solvent
- Putty knife
- Protective gloves and goggles
- Heavy-duty floor scraper or chisel
- Bucket, sponge, and rags for cleaning
- Optional: Electric tile remover or rotary floor scraper
Using the correct tools not only speeds up the process but also reduces the risk of damaging your subfloor.
Step-by-Step Guide to Remove Adhesive Tiles
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
- Remove all furniture, rugs, and appliances from the area.
- Sweep or vacuum the floor to remove loose dirt.
- Wear protective gear such as gloves and goggles.
Step 2: Cut Tiles Into Sections
Using a utility knife, score the tiles along the grout lines or in small sections. This makes it easier to lift them without cracking surrounding tiles or damaging the floor.
Step 3: Loosen Tiles Using a Scraper
Use a flat scraper or putty knife to gently pry up the edges of the tiles. For stubborn tiles, applying heat with a heat gun softens the adhesive, making removal easier.
Step 4: Remove Residual Adhesive
Once tiles are removed, adhesive often remains on the floor. Apply a commercial adhesive remover or chemical solvent according to instructions. Let it sit for a few minutes to soften the glue.
Scrape the softened adhesive with a putty knife or heavy-duty scraper. For large areas, a rotary floor scraper can make this process much faster.
Step 5: Clean and Smooth the Floor
After all tiles and adhesive are removed:
- Wash the floor with warm water and a mild detergent
- Scrub stubborn spots with a sponge
- Let the floor dry completely before installing new flooring
Common Challenges When Removing Adhesive Tiles in Dubai
1. Tiles Are Stubborn and Hard to Remove
Some tiles, especially older or ceramic types, may be glued with industrial-strength adhesive. Using heat, chemical solvent, or professional equipment from Rare Home Decor can make the process manageable.
2. Subfloor Damage Risk
Prying tiles aggressively can damage wood, concrete, or cement subfloors. Professionals assess the floor type and use proper tools to minimize risks.
3. Dust and Debris
Removing tiles can create a lot of dust and debris. Proper cleaning tools, plastic sheets, and protective gear help maintain a safe workspace.
4. Residual Adhesive
Even after tiles are removed, adhesive can remain sticky and uneven. Chemical solutions, heat, and scraping are often required to remove every trace.
Safety Tips for Tile Removal
- Always wear gloves, goggles, and a mask
- Avoid inhaling dust or chemical fumes
- Keep children and pets away from the work area
- Use heat guns carefully to prevent burns or fire hazards
- Follow chemical solvent instructions strictly
DIY vs Professional Tile Removal
Many homeowners in Dubai consider removing adhesive tiles themselves. While possible for small areas, DIY removal has risks:
- Time-consuming and labor-intensive
- Can damage subfloor or walls
- Difficult to remove all adhesive evenly
- Safety hazards with chemicals or heat tools
Hiring professionals like Rare Home Decor ensures:
- Efficient and fast removal
- Safe handling of chemicals and tools
- Minimal mess and risk
- Floor ready for new installations
Post-Removal: Preparing the Floor for New Installation
After adhesive tiles are removed, it’s important to prepare the floor for new flooring:
- Inspect the subfloor for damage or unevenness
- Repair cracks, holes, or chips with filler or leveling compound
- Clean the floor thoroughly to remove all dust and debris
- Ensure the surface is dry before installing new tiles, laminate, vinyl, or wooden flooring
Proper preparation ensures your new flooring lasts longer and looks flawless.
Removing Different Types of Adhesive Tiles
Vinyl Tiles
Vinyl tiles are often glued down with strong adhesives. Heat guns and chemical solvents work well for loosening the glue.
Ceramic Tiles
Ceramic tiles may require chisels, hammers, or rotary scrapers for removal. Professionals ensure the underlying floor remains intact.
Laminate or Engineered Flooring
These tiles often have glue or click-lock systems. Carefully lifting each plank with minimal force prevents damage.
How to Handle Large Areas
For bigger spaces like villas, offices, or commercial apartments:
- Divide the floor into manageable sections
- Use heavy-duty floor scrapers or rotary machines
- Apply adhesive remover systematically
- Schedule breaks to avoid fatigue and maintain precision
Professional services like Rare Home Decor use industrial-grade equipment to clean large areas efficiently without compromising the floor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Pulling tiles aggressively without loosening adhesive
- Skipping protective gear
- Using excessive heat or chemicals
- Ignoring subfloor inspection
- Not cleaning residue thoroughly before new installation
Avoiding these mistakes saves time, money, and ensures better results.
Benefits of Hiring Professionals for Tile Removal in Dubai
- Time Efficiency – Large areas can be completed faster
- Safety – Professionals handle chemicals, dust, and heavy tools safely
- Floor Protection – Reduces risk of scratches, cracks, or damage
- Complete Removal – Ensures all adhesive is gone, providing a smooth base for new flooring
- Post-Removal Cleaning – Professionals clean debris, dust, and leftover adhesive
Rare Home Decor specializes in floor renovation services, including professional adhesive tile removal, ensuring high-quality results for residential and commercial clients in Dubai.
Cost of Tile Removal in Dubai
Costs vary depending on:
- Floor area size
- Type of tiles and adhesive
- Subfloor condition
- Equipment and labor required
For small apartments, DIY may reduce costs but can take days. For villas, offices, or commercial spaces, professional services save time and avoid costly mistakes. Rare Home Decor provides transparent pricing and detailed quotes before starting any project.
Eco-Friendly Tile Removal
Professional services increasingly use eco-friendly methods:
- Biodegradable adhesive removers
- Dust containment and filtration
- Safe disposal of old tiles and debris
This minimizes environmental impact and ensures safety for residents.
Frequently Asked Questions About Removing Adhesive Tiles
How long does it take to remove adhesive tiles?
Small apartments: 1–2 days, depending on tile type. Villas or larger areas: 3–5 days or more.
Can I remove tiles without damaging the floor?
Yes, using proper tools, heat, and adhesive removers. Professionals minimize damage risk.
Do I need to clean adhesive before installing new flooring?
Absolutely. Residual glue can prevent new tiles or vinyl from adhering properly.
Can chemical removers damage the floor?
If used incorrectly, yes. Always follow instructions or hire professionals like Rare Home Decor.
Is professional tile removal expensive?
Cost depends on size and complexity. Professionals save time, reduce damage risk, and ensure quality results, making it worthwhile.
Final Thoughts
Removing adhesive tiles from your floor in Dubai is a challenging but manageable task if done properly. The key is using the right tools, safety measures, and techniques to protect your subfloor and ensure a smooth surface for new flooring.
For residents and property owners looking for safe, efficient, and high-quality tile removal, Rare Home Decor provides expert services in Dubai. From small apartments to large villas, their team handles everything from tile removal to post-cleaning preparation, ensuring your floors are ready for the next stage of renovation or flooring installation.
Investing in professional tile removal saves time, reduces stress, and ensures long-lasting, beautiful results for your home or office.
