Replacing Damaged Ceramic Tile

How to Remove an Old Tile and Install a New One

© Tammie Burak

Apr 8, 2009

Tiles can become damaged due to long exposure to standing water, things falling on them, or from poor floor preparation prior to tile installation.

Tools

Having the right tools on hand will make removing a tile easier. You should have the following tools available.

• Utility knife
• Hammer
• Cold chisel
• Grout saw (only use if grout line is very wide)
• Drill
• Putty knife
• Sponge and water

Removing the Grout

1. Using the utility knife, try to scratch the surface of the grout. If the grout does not contain sand you should be able to get the grout out with just the utility knife.
2. Be careful not to scrape against adjacent tiles, which could cause chipping.
3. If you are trying to remove a floor tile that has been set with sanded grout, use the chisel and hammer. Try to angle the chisel blade toward the damaged tile and tap gently, being careful not to contact adjacent tiles.
4. Scrape away broken grout with the utility knife, remembering to save a sample for colour matching when purchasing replacement grout.

Removing the Broken Tile

1. Once the grout is removed and all four sides of the tile are exposed, you may be able to pry out the broken tile using a screwdriver or the chisel.
2. If the tile is not loose, tap the surface with the hammer and try to pry it free. If this doesn’t work, you may want to use a drill and ¼” or ½” carbide bit to drill holes down through the tile in several places. This works to divide the tile up into smaller pieces. Try prying apart the smaller pieces using a hammer and screwdriver.
3. Don’t be too concerned about damaging the sub-floor if you have to take this route to remove the tile. You’ll be able to repair or cover any damage when you replace the tile.

Replacing the Tile

1. Vacuum out all remaining tile, grout, and adhesive. Scrape away any bits that are making the surface uneven. Set a new tile into the space and check to see that it sits firmly without any rocking. Also be sure that the new tile does not sit higher than surrounding tiles. You may need to remove more adhesive or underlying mortar to make the tile sit properly.
2. Apply a thin layer of adhesive (about 1/8”) to the tile, being careful not to spread it too close to the edges. Leave about 1/2” margin around the edges of the tile to give room for excess adhesive to move without filling in the grout space.
3. Set the tile into the hole, rocking gently to assure even spreading of the adhesive. Use a screwdriver to remove any adhesive that might have squeezed out around the edges of the tile.
4. Let set for 24 hours.

Applying Grout

1. Mix the grout according to package directions. Use the putty knife or your hands to apply grout. Use your fingers to push the grout into the cracks, pushing out all air pockets.
2. Use your finger to run a smooth shallow groove down the center of the grout line.
3. Use a damp sponge to remove any excess grout and to smooth the surface of the crack.
4. Apply a grout sealant to protect against water damage and to protect the colour of the grout.

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