Fix The Floor: Bathroom Tile Repair In 5 Steps

If you have a few broken or stained tiles in your bathroom floor, bathroom tile repair costs less than a complete renovation. Follow these simple steps to complete this weekend project.

Step 1 - Remove Grout

Using a utility knife, remove all grout around the damaged tile. If it’s a soft grout, just pull at the grout with the knife until it all peels up. If it’s a harder grout, you will need grout remover (found at most hardware stores)—follow the directions on the packaging. These products can take up to an hour to work. When using grout remover, be careful not to spill it on the ground around other tiles.

Step 2 - Remove Old Tile

Depending on how the tile was attached to the floor, this can be very easy or very hard. If the tile is just lying in place, then all you have to do is pull it out. Most of the time, floor tiles have been set in using an adhesive. If it’s been many years since your last flooring job, the adhesive may be hard to remove.

If the tile is held fast, you can try to loosen it using a nail punch. Punch a hole in the broken tile and start to chisel at the tile and the adhesive. You can use the hammer and chisel on the outside edge of the tile, working inward to avoid damaging other tiles. You may cause some damage to the sub-floor while doing this, but the new tile will conceal that nicely.

Step 3 - Prepare for New Tile

Make sure there is no debris left behind from the old tiles, especially if you had to break them. Vacuum dust and leftover grout and adhesive, even if you don't see any. This will help avoid adhesion issues later.

You will want to place the tile on the bare spot before you glue it in. Make sure it doesn’t rock and that it’s even with the other tiles. If it stands higher, you will need to remove more of the adhesive underneath. If it rocks, keep working on debris removal until it sits evenly.

Step 4 - Place New Tile

Prepare the new tile by applying a thin layer of adhesive on the back using your putty knife. Make sure you don’t bring the adhesive any closer than a ½-inch from the edge or else it will seep out.

Set the tile in place by wiggling it back and forth. Make sure the tile is placed exactly where you want it and that it’s tight and secure. Give it at least 24 hours for the adhesive to bond.

Step 5 - Grout

Apply grout with a putty knife only after the adhesive has completely bonded. Use a dampened sponge to wipe up any excess around the other tiles before it dries.