How to Replace a Damaged Ceramic Tile

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A ceramic tile can crack or break if hit on a wall or if dropped on when on a floor. Thankfully, fixing a broken tile isn’t as difficult as it may seem. Follow our clear step-by-step guide to efficiently replace your damaged ceramic tile.

Step 1

Remove Grout around Tile

Use a grout saw, chisel or similar sharp object to scrape away as much grout as you can from around the tile that is to be replaced.

Step 2

Remove Tile

Using a screwdriver, prise the tile off the wall or floor.

Step 3

Remove Remaining Grout

Use a scraper to remove any remnants of the tile as well as any remaining grout. This step should be completed thoroughly to ensure the correct fitting of the replacement tile.

Step 4

Test Fit New Tile

Place the new tile into its position to check it fits. This will also help you to gauge how much adhesive will be required to allow it to sit perfectly.

Step 5

Apply Adhesive to New Tile

Apply adhesive to the back of the new tile as well as on the wall or floor location where it will be placed.

Step 6

Place New Tile

Seat the tile into its new spot and use your variety of hand tools to ease it into place. Don’t use a hammer directly on the tile as it may damage it; place an item such as wood on top of the tile and hammer the wood gently.

Step 7

Fill Edges

Using a scraper, fill in the gaps around the tile with the adhesive. Remove and clean off any excess grout or adhesive within 10 minutes. Allow a significant amount of drying time before any pressure is placed on the tile.