How to Replace a Ceramic Tile

Got a broken ceramic tile? Don't worry, replacing a ceramic can be an easy do-it-yourself project. Here is a step by step guide on how to replace a broken or cracked ceramic tile.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Power drill
• Masonry drill bit
• Thin set / tile adhesive
• Notched trowel
• Flat pry bar
• Cold chisel
• Replacement tile
• Vacuum
• Grout float
• Wood block
• Sanded grout

1. Remove the damaged ceramic tile. The most important part here is not to damage any surrounding tiles. Start by drilling several lines of holes into the ceramic tile. Use a power drill with a masonry drill bit. Be careful not to drill deeper than the tile.
   
   After you have your holes drilled, connect them together with a cold chisel (masonry chisel) and hammer. Once the tile is split up, pry it up with a flat pry bar.

2. Using your cold chisel, remove any old mortar or thin set from where the old tile use to be. Be extra careful not to damage the other tiles in the process.

3. Vacuum the empty space out to remove any dust and debris. This will help the mortar adhere to the ground.

4. Using your notched trowel, spread an even layer of thin set mortar or adhesive to the floor. The notches in the trowel will help the adhesive flatten out when the ceramic tile is placed.

5. Center your new tile into the adhesive. Make sure it's an equal distance away from the others to ensure even grout lines. If your tile is too high or too low, adjust it by removing or adding thin set mortar.

6. Place a block of wood over the tile and pound it even with a hammer.
   Let the adhesive dry for at least 24 hours.

7. Fill in the cracks with sanded grout and level it with a grout float. Wipe any excess grout from the ceramic tiles' surface with a wet rag before it dries.

[jswana]

on 10/26/2009 Now these are nice, concise instructions. Thanks for sharing how to replace a ceramic tile. jswana 5*