How to Replace Slate Tile
Whether the damage occurs from something as big as an earthquake or something as simple as accidentally dropping something onto the slate floor, a slate tile can sometimes crack or fracture and need to be replaced. Contrary to what you might think, replacing a slate tile does not necessarily mean you should rush off to call a repair man. This repair is one that you can do yourself in just a few minutes of time. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Hammer
- Chisel
- Broom and dustpan
- Safety glasses
- Ear plugs
- Dust mask
- Notched trowel
- Latex-modified thinset
- 4-inch grinder
Instructions
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Remove the Slate Tile
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1
Use your 4-inch grinder to cut the grout joint around the piece of slate tile that needs to be replaced. Avoid cutting too deeply or you could damage the substrate beneath the installation area.
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2
Use your hammer and chisel to fracture the piece of tile in the center.
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3
Using the hammer and chisel, work your way out from the center of the tile, prying the pieces of the slate tile away from the installation surface. Be careful around the edges of the surrounding tile to avoid damaging them.
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4
Completely remove all the old slate and adhesive from the area where you will be installing new slate tile to replace the old piece. Use your broom and dustpan to clean the area free of debris.
Installation
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5
Using a notched trowel, apply thinset to the area where you will be installing the new piece of slate tile.
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6
Check the back of the slate tile for any inconsistencies in thickness. If there are any spots where the tile is thinner, apply an extra dab of thinset on the back of the tile itself.
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7
Install the piece of slate tile in the area where you just spread thinset. Apply gentle pressure and move the tile slightly in all directions to ensure a proper bond with the adhesive before moving the tile to its final position.
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1
Tips & Warnings
If you are replacing a piece of tile on the wall, use tile spacers to help hold the new piece of tile in place amidst the old tiles.
A typical 12-by-12 inch tile requires a 3/8-inch notched trowel. Larger tiles will require a larger notch, and smaller tiles vice versa.
All materials and tools can be purchased or rented from your local home improvement store, such as Home Depot or Lowe's Home Improvement.
Always use safety glasses, ear plugs and a dust mask when working with a 4-inch grinder. In addition, be sure to use safety glasses and a dust mask while removing the piece of tile itself.
