Introduction
Cracked tile can be unsightly and can lead to larger foundation issues in the long run, but replacing a broken tile can be a simple and straightforward fix. After finding matching tile and grout, the replacement will be all but unnoticeable.
Tools
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Use a painter's tool or putty knife to remove the grout from around the cracked tile.
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Using an edge or corner of your painter's tool or putty knife, scrape the grout along the perimeter of the broken tile.
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Use the painter's tool or putty knife to pry up the broken tile.
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If the tile does not lift, place an old rag over the tile and use the hammer to break the tile into smaller pieces.
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Remove the broken pieces of tile, using gloved hands for large pieces or a broom for smaller shards.
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Using the painter's tool or putty knife, scrape the grout from the edges of tile and any adhesive from under the tile.
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Apply new adhesive using the trowel, making sure the adhesive is spread evenly.
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Drag the toothed end of the trowel across the adhesive to create even rows.
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Place the new tile down in the center of the empty space.
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If available, use tile spacers to ensure proper placement.
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Allow the adhesive to dry based on the instructions provided on the product.
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After the adhesive has dried, add water to a small amount of grout until it's the consistency of toothpaste.
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Fill in the area around the new tile, making sure the new grout matches the height of the surrounding grout.
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Use a moist sponge to wipe diagonally across the tile, cleaning off excess grout after each wipe.
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If any bubbles or gaps form in the grout while removing excess, add more grout and repeat the cleaning process.
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Wait and allow grout to dry for several hours.
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Allow the grout to dry and then resume normal use.
