The builder of our 4-year-old home failed to install the backerboard or tiles properly under all the ceramic floors. Consequently, some of the tiles in our kitchen/breakfast area (about 400 sq ft) are coming loose. I would like to remove the floor tile & backerboard and install hardwood. Unfortunately, the cabinets cannot be easily removed and I would have to cut the tile/backerboard flush around them. I talked with a competent tile setter that has done work for me before and he assures me that is a BIG & MESSY JOB!

As an alternative solution, I thought about removing those problematic tiles/backerboard and replacing them correctly; then installing a floating "lock & click" engineered floor over it - such as the 3/8" Bruce or Tarkett products? My concern is that the grout lines might show through the flooring? Any suggestions, comments, advice, instructions or warnings will be greatly appreciated!!!

I have gone over thousands of sf of ceramic using click /Bruce and laminate. Do not do it unless the tiles are sound and flat (see manufaturers flatness requirements) . You can however grind the high edges down. I have in the last year or so bought into an excellent high powered dustless grinder. But still it has to be of sound installation or many problems may occur.

If it's lose then it's an easy demo.