How do I Replace a Cracked Ceramic Floor Tile?
While ceramic floor tile can last a long time, eventually you'll probably have to replace broken tile. It may take you longer to find a piece that matches your cracked ceramic tile than it does to actually repair it. It's important that you find matching grout for your broken ceramic tile. Larger tile stores are more likely to have the tile and grout you need. The task is not difficult; a few simple tools should help you fix your floor. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Protective eyewear
- Rubber gloves
- Drill and carbide drill bits
- Cold chisel
- Hammer
- Screwdriver
- Notched trowel
- Rubber float
- Sponge
Instructions
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1
Drill 1/4- to 1/2-inch holes spaced 1 inch apart just far enough into the cracked ceramic tile to touch the subflooring. Score the spaces between the holes with the edge of a cold chisel. Gently tap the chisel with the hammer to break up the rest of the broken ceramic tile. Take care not to disturb the adjacent tiles.
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2
Use the chisel or a screwdriver to pry out the mortar that remains underneath the tile. Remove the grout that surrounded the broken tile. Clean up the debris. If possible, vacuum the area to remove the fine dust.
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3
Check the subflooring for damage that might cause the new tile to crack. Repair any irregularities in the subflooring before proceeding.
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4
Mix mortar according to directions on the package. Apply a 1/4-inch thick coat. Level it with a 1/4-inch notched trowel.
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5
Set the replacement tile in the mortar. Gently tap it in place to seat it in the mortar. Let it dry for 24 hours.
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Mix the grout. Follow the package directions carefully because the amount of water in the grout affects the final color. Force the grout into the space between tiles with a rubber float. Work across the joint diagonally to get more grout into the joint. Allow the grout to dry for 24 hours.
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Wipe any grout off the ceramic tile with a sponge dipped in water as soon as the tile gets a haze on it. If you wait too long, the grout may be hard to remove from the tile's face.
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Tips & Warnings
Many tile stores offer grout samples. Take some home to see which one most closely matches the grout on your floor.
Wear eye protection as you drill the tile and remove it. Use rubber gloves to protect your hands as you work with the mortar and grout.
References
- Photo Credit ceramic tile image by Karin Lau from Fotolia.com
