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HOW-TO LIBRARY Thousands of Helpful How-Tos. Countless Ideas.
 
Repair tile.
First aid kit for ceramic tile.

Repairing and Replacing Damaged Ceramic Tiles

 
 
Moving wall supports, warping building studs or a shifting foundation can cause tiles to crack. Improper floor and wall preparation during the original installation can cause tiles to loosen. Moisture or excessive vibrations, such as slamming doors or windows can also cause tiles to loosen. Lowe's is happy to provide this information as a service to you.
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When you install new tile, buy a few extras for future replacements so the color will match perfectly.

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Removing a Broken Tile

Wear safety glasses when removing tile. A dust mask is necessary when sawing grout.

  1. Remove the old grout from around the damaged tile with a grout saw. Be careful not to damage the tiles surrounding the one you want to replace.

  2. For stubborn tiles, drill one or two holes in the damaged tile (not too deep). This will help prevent damage to surrounding tiles and make it easier to pry or chip out.

  3. Carefully break out chips of the damaged tile using a hammer and chisel. You do not have to get it all out at once. You are less likely to damage surrounding tile if you take it out in small pieces.

  4. After the tile is completely removed, scrape away the old adhesive and grout with a putty knife until the surface is clean and smooth.

  5. A well-adhered tile will likely pull up some of the substrate with it, especially if it is drywall. Patch and level the area and let it dry before replacing the tile.
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Setting the New Tile
  1. "Butter" some adhesive to the back of the new tile with a notched trowel or putty knife. If you are using squeeze adhesive, put some on the center of the tile and spread it with the putty knife.

  2. Press the tile firmly into place. Allow the adhesive to cure according to the specifications on the package.

  3. Grout around the new tile with a sponge or grout float. Allow the grout to set.

  4. Wipe away any excess grout with a wet sponge. Seal joints with a bead of flexible silicone caulk where tiles meet another surface at an angle.

  5. Once the grout dries (at least 24 hours), clean the new tile with soap and water. Polish with a clean, dry cloth.
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These How-To's are provided as a service from Lowe's, the Original Home Improvement Warehouse of How-To information for the World Wide Web. The information in Lowe's "How-To" clinics is intended to simplify jobs around the house. Tools, products, materials, techniques, building codes and local regulations change; therefore, Lowe's assumes no liability for omissions, errors or the outcome of any project. The reader must always exercise reasonable caution, follow current codes and regulations that may apply, and is urged to consult with a licensed professional if in doubt about any procedures. Please read our terms of use.