Repairing a Cracked Tile

Cracked tiles can be an eyesore and a hazard in your bathroom. They can also lead to further damage to your flooring if not repaired promptly. If you have a cracked tile, don’t panic! It is a relatively easy repair that you can do yourself with a few simple tools and materials.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1.

Gather materials:

• New tile
• Thin-set mortar
• Grout
• Grout float
• Tile cutter
• Safety glasses
• Gloves

2.

Prepare the area:

• Remove any furniture or fixtures from the area.
• Clean the area thoroughly with a degreaser.
• Let the area dry completely.

3.

Remove the cracked tile:

• Wear safety glasses and gloves.
• Use a tile cutter to score the grout around the cracked tile.
• Carefully pry up the cracked tile with a chisel or flathead screwdriver.

4.

Prepare the new tile:

• Cut the new tile to the same size as the cracked tile.
• Apply a thin layer of thin-set mortar to the back of the new tile.

5.

Install the new tile:

• Place the new tile in the hole left by the cracked tile.
• Press down on the tile to secure it in place.
• Let the thin-set mortar dry completely.

6.

Grout the tile:

• Mix the grout according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Apply the grout to the joints between the tiles with a grout float.
• Let the grout dry completely.

7.

Clean up:

• Wipe away any excess grout with a damp sponge.
• Let the area dry completely.
• Replace any furniture or fixtures.

With a little care and attention, you can repair a cracked tile and restore your bathroom flooring to its original beauty.