6 Steps to Replace Your Damaged Ceramic Tile

Ceramic tile can be found just about anywhere in the house. More traditionally, however, it is mainly found in the bathroom and kitchen. These areas of the house tend to get a lot of traffic and usage. For this reason, ceramic tile can become damaged over the years. Since this type of covering is fairly expensive, it is quite necessary to know the proper steps to replace damaged tiles. Here are 6 easy steps to replace your damaged ceramic tile.

Step 1: Score damaged tile
Scoring your ceramic tile with an X is the first step of replacement. For this task, you must have access to a steel straightedge and a glass cutter. From corner to corner, heavily score your X into the damaged ceramic tile.

Step 2: Punch Hole Through the Center
Once your X is scored, you will need a nail and hammer to punch a hole through the center. When completing this task, be sure to avoid damaging the ceramic backing.

Step 3: Chipping the Old Tile
Now that you have scored and punched a hole through the damaged tile, it is time to chip out the pieces. Do this using a hammer and cold chisel with rapid, sensitive blows. It may take a little while, but the ceramic tile pieces should fall right to the ground.

Step 4: Removing Old Grout
After the damaged ceramic tile is completely gone, it is time to get rid of the old grout and adhesive. Simply use sandpaper to smooth all the rough edges. Once the area is smooth, use patching plaster to level completely. Once the plaster is dry, prime the area.

Step 5: Securing New Ceramic
Tile Now comes the fun part: applying the new tile. Use a fair amount of mastic on the back side of the tile. Keep this within �½ inch from each edge. Then, place the tile center on the open area and use a wooden block and hammer to tap it into place.

Step 6: Grouting New Ceramic
Tile Once your new ceramic tile has been allowed to dry for at least 24 hours, fill the outer joints with new grout. Apply using a damp sponge and then smooth with your wet finger.

There is nothing more satisfying than repairing cosmetic details in your home. Fixing damaged ceramic tile can do wonders for the look of your house. Using these 6 simple steps, replacing your ceramic tile will be as simple as pie.