How to Fix a Broken Mosaic

Repairing a mosaic is easier if you had some leftover tiles to use as replacements.

Mosaics are designs made from small pieces of colored tile. Mosaics are often used for wall decorations, inlaid table tops and tiled floor designs. When tiles crack or chip, it can ruin the mosaic's appearance. The key to mosaic repair is finding a piece of tile the same color and shape as the original and matching the surrounding grout color. Once you find a suitable piece, you are ready to begin repairs.

Things You'll Need

• Painters tape
• Drill
• 1/4-inch masonry bit
• Hammer
• Chisel
• Vacuum
• Tile
• Mosaic glue
• Grout
• Sponge
• Wet rag

Instructions

1. Tape over surrounding tiles to avoid damaging them while you work. Drill a set of holes diagonally across the top of the tile an inch apart, starting an inch in from the edge. If your tile is less than two inches across, drill one hole in the center of the tile unless the tile comes up easily without drilling.

2. Strike the stress points created by the drill holes with a hammer and chisel. Use light taps and work slowly. Once the tile is broken up, pry up the pieces with the chisel.

3. Scrape old adhesive from the exposed surface. If the grout is undamaged and the replacement tile fits in the space, you do not need to replace the grout. If the grout is cracked, gently tap it and dig it out with the chisel. Vacuum up the dust.

4. Put down a thin layer of mosaic glue in the space and place the tile on the glue. Let the glue dry. If you do not need to replace the grout, you are finished. If you do need to replace the grout, mix a small amount of grout after the glue has dried. Push the grout into the space around the tile using a sponge to spread the grout over the crevices until they are filled. Let the grout dry and then use a wet rag to wipe off excess grout and clean the tops of the tiles.

Tips & Warnings

• The tile doesn't have to exactly match the shape of the broken tile. You can use a similarly shaped tile. If it fits in the space, you can replace the tile and grout for a close approximation.

• If you don't have a tile the correct shape, you can trace the tile you are replacing on a piece of paper and take it to a home improvement store, where they may be able to shape a piece to fit or recommend someone who can.

References

• This Old House; How to Replace a Broken Tile; Scott H. Schilling
• This Old House; Fast Fix for Cracked Tile; Merle Henkenius
• Be Jane: Pick Up the Pieces: From Broken Glass to a Sumptuous Mosaic Table