Tile repair is a necessary part of home maintenance that can save you money and help prevent worse damage from occurring. A broken or chipped tile can be an eyesore and a safety hazard that can cause injuries to children and pets who step on them. It can also cause water to seep through the cracks and create problems for your subflooring.
Regardless of whether you are repairing or replacing a tile, there are some things you should know before getting started. These tips will help you avoid costly mistakes and will ensure your new tiles look great.
Removing a Cracked or Broken Tile
The first thing you need to do is clean the damaged tile. This will remove any dirt or debris from the area and make it easier to chisel out the broken pieces. You should also try to remove any adhesive that may be stuck to the tile and surrounding area.
When removing a tile, make sure to use proper safety equipment such as gloves and goggles. You should also try to place painter’s tape over the edges of any adjacent tiles to protect them from damage.
Loosen the Broken Tile
Using a carbide-tipped scoring tool, rap around the cracked areas of the tile to loosen the grout and make it easier for you to chisel out the broken sections. This will allow you to remove the broken tile without causing any damage to the neighboring tiles.
Next, drill evenly spaced holes into the broken tile using a 1/4-inch ceramic bit. This will allow you to free the pieces of the tile and make them easier to chisel out with your hammer and cold chisel.
Once the broken sections are free, use your hammer and cold chisel to chip away the mortar or thin-set that holds the broken tile together. You should begin by chipping out the center of the crack, working your way outward to avoid damaging any other tiles in the vicinity.
Applying Grout and Adhesive
When re-tiling a bathroom, be sure to use the correct tile adhesive and grout for the job. This will help to keep your new tiles in place for longer. Depending on your type of tile, you may need to purchase some extra adhesive and grout.
Applying Grout and Adhesive
For your project, you’ll need the right tools and materials. These will be different for each type of tile, so make sure to check out your local home improvement store for the exact items you need.
If you aren’t comfortable repairing your own tile, consider hiring a pro to do it for you. A professional will have the right tools and experience to get the job done properly.
Performing your own tile repair can be an effective and inexpensive way to save time, money, and prevent further damage. However, be aware that tile repair is an advanced skill and should only be performed by experienced professionals.
Hairline Cracks in Tile Can Be Fixed With Epoxy Glue
A minor crack or chip in your tile can be repaired with a small amount of epoxy glue and paint. This will not only eliminate the weakness of the tile, but will also add a layer of protection to the crack.