Repairing Damaged Tile

Notes

• If you have a series of cracked tiles in a row, you probably have a subfloor problem and will need to call a professional to check it out.

• When you're buying tile, buy an extra dozen to make sure that you have matching replacements when you need them. If you don't have extras, break a few more tiles in a pattern so that the replacement tiles will be decorative.

Materials:

1-1/2" masking tape or painters tape
grout saw
whisk broom or vacuum
safety glasses
1/2" coal chisel
hammer
work gloves
1-1/4" wood chisel
utility knife
Thin-Set*
putty knife
replacement tile
small pieces of cardboard
damp rag

Steps:

1. Isolate the broken tile with 1-1/2-inch masking or painters tape to protect the surrounding tile (figure A).

2. Use a grout saw (figure B) to cut through the grout around the broken tile (figure C). This can take some time and effort, as it is the hardest part of the repair.

3. When you're through sawing, clean your work area by sweeping or vacuuming up the grout.

4. Now you're ready to break up the damaged tile. Put on safety glasses and get children and pets out of the room.