Make quick work of vinyl tile removal and save your back and knees with a long-handled floor scraper, like this Warner 4-inch carbon steel heavy-duty scraper with 48-inch handle ($33 at Ace Hardware).

After you install tile on a floor or vertical surface, ensure that they are fully set and properly spaced. Tiles need to set for 24 to 28 hours before you can begin the grouting process.

Swap out your reciprocating-saw blade for a scraper blade to quickly and easily scrape up linoleum tiles, resilient flooring, glued-down carpeting, blistered paint, wallpaper, and dried drywall ...

Angle. Apply the replacement grout at a 45-degree angle to the tile. Work it thoroughly into the spaces between tiles so there are no air ­bubbles or gaps. Wipe.

Q. I started trying to remove the cracked, discolored tile grout in my shower using a hand tool, and feel it will take at least 20 years to get it all out. Is there a better way?