Replacing a Tile

 Read more from Chris Bennett

One particular job that I really dislike is replacing a damaged floor tile, particularly if it's a ceramic one. The damage could be caused by a heavy object being dropped onto the floor or the tile glazing has cracked. Whatever the cause, the solution requires hard and careful work.

Your first task will be finding a replacement to match the rest of the floor tiles. In some cases this is very simple because the tiles are a current style, or you kept a couple from the time when they were originally laid or the damaged one is located where it really doesn't matter. If, for whatever reason, you cannot get a good match then why not go to the extreme and get something completely different and make the replacement a feature tile? If the damaged tile is in a really prominent position a feature tile can be very avant garde, it certainly looks better than a colour near miss. Removal of the damaged tile is the next step.

First of all you will need to remove the grout from around the offending tile. Do this by using an old tool such as a screwdriver or chisel, the idea being to carefully scratch the old grout out and not damage the adjacent tiles. If necessary use a hammer with your old screwdriver (or chisel) and carefully chip away the old grout. Whist doing this job you should be wearing safety goggles, if you're not then now is the time to put them on!

During the next stage its almost certain that sharp pieces of tile will be flying around. Using, a cold chisel and hammer, start to chip the tile away from the centre working towards the edges. When the area is clean and all traces of the old tile and cement are removed make sure that your new tile will fit into the space. Also check at this stage that the tile will sit level with the surrounding tiles, (make an allowance for the adhesive) and only then apply the adhesive. Firmly push the tile in place and check with your spirit level for level all round.

Limitation of Liability: This project has been produced to provide basic information and as this information is generalised neither Chris Bennett nor the GrownUps Website is responsible for the application of the principles in any particular case, as the contents of this project may need to be modified for the particular site and circumstances. Consumers should always ensure that they comply with any local body bylaws that pertain to any construction project and consult a qualified tradesperson where expert services are required