How to Replace Ceramic Tile in a Bathroom
Ceramic tiles can maintain their beauty for a lifetime but may need to be replaced when cracked or broken. When people remodel, they may decide to extensively replace their bathroom tile. Whether replacing one bathroom tile, or an entire bathroom wall, common tools and methods can help achieve that fresh look. Some common safety guidelines should be followed to avoid injury. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Safety goggles
- Protective clothing
- Cold chisel
- Hammer
- Brush and dustpan
- Soft cloth
- Replacement tile
- Trowel
- Adhesive
- Level
- Grout
- Rubber mallet
Instructions
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1
Put on safety goggles and protective clothing.
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2
Loosen the grout surrounding the tiles you want to replace. Using the edge of a cold chisel, begin scraping at the grout. With each stroke, scrape deeper until you reach the tile base.
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3
Place the chisel in the depression you created and angle it toward the tile to be removed. Use the hammer to hit the chisel. Work the chisel to loosen and remove all broken pieces. If you want one tile removed, take care to only chisel and break that tile. If many tiles need to be removed, you can take greater liberty with the demolition and more aggressively bash the tiles. Use the chisel and hammer to remove tile pieces left behind.
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4
Clean the vacant tile area using a soft brush and dustpan. Wipe away remaining debris from the immediate area with a soft cloth to ensure the adhesive can attain maximum strength.
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5
Use a trowel to spread enough adhesive into the vacant tile area to achieve a proper height for the new tile.
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Place the tile in the center of the vacant area and inspect the surrounding tiles to ensure an even appearance in the distance between tiles. Using a rubber mallet, gently pound the tile to help settle the adhesive and to even out the tile. Use a level to ensure that tile is even with adjacent tiles. Leave alone for about 24 hours to set.
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7
Add grout to fill the gaps between tiles. Allow 12 to 24 hours for drying.
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Tips & Warnings
Always wear safety goggles and protective clothing when dealing with sharp ceramic tiles. Protective clothing includes hat, gloves, long-sleeved clothing or painter's overalls. Bandannas may be worn on the face and neck.
Ensure proper ventilation when working with adhesives.
