Repairing floor tiles becomes necessary when the tiles in the living room or bathroom are damaged. Sometimes, tiles break or become loose due to sudden impact or the falling of a heavy object.
In such cases, the damaged tile must be repaired quickly to prevent other tiles from becoming loose. But how can damaged tiles be repaired? To learn about methods for repairing floor tiles, join us in this article from Pma Imperio.
Steps for Repairing Floor Tiles
Repairing floor tiles is a highly specialized task and requires specific tools. If you need help repairing chipped tiles in your living room or bathroom, you should definitely seek a professional installer to do the job.
Tile and ceramic repair is very sensitive and precise; even a small mistake can make it difficult to level the tiles, and the repaired tile may become loose again. The steps for repairing floor tiles are as follows:
Removing the Damaged or Broken Tile
Instead of completely replacing all tiles, you can replace only the damaged one. To do this, the damaged tile must first be removed. Skilled workers use special tools to separate the damaged tile.
Cleaning Beneath the Tile
The next step is to thoroughly clean the area beneath the tile. In conventional methods, grout or special tile adhesive is used to affix the tiles. The worker will clean the surface to ensure the new adhesive or mortar will hold the new tile securely.
Reapplying the Base
In this step, cement mortar or special tile adhesive is prepared for repairing the floor tile, and the worker applies an appropriate amount beneath the tile.
Leveling the Tile
Now it’s time to place the tile and level it with the surrounding tiles. Ensuring the new tile is leveled with the previous ones is very important. Even a 1mm height difference can cause problems, such as snagging or chipping other tiles, and the overall look won't be aesthetically pleasing.
Grouting the Tile
Grouting is part of the final step in repairing floor tiles. The installer uses grout or special powders to fill the gaps between the tiles, completing the installation of the new tile.
Necessary Tools and Equipment for Repairing Floor Tiles
If you want to repair cracked, worn-out, or drilled porcelain tiles, you don’t necessarily need to buy new tiles. Replacing tiles can be costly, and sometimes the damage is so minor that replacement isn’t needed. You can easily fix the damage using tile repair methods. For example, when a small crack appears on a tile, there’s no need to replace it. You can use special adhesives to bond the damaged tile.
But what tools are required to repair broken or damaged tiles?
- Cement Glue : Cement glue or epoxy glue is used to adhere the tiles and can increase the strength of the repair.
- Special Mortar : Cement mortar is the main material for bonding tiles. A mixture of cement, sand, and water creates a dense substance that holds the tiles securely.
- Special Trowel : A trowel is used to spread mortar and fill the gaps between the tiles.
- Level: In the final stages, a level ensures the tiles are even.
A Tile Matching the Damaged One: The most essential item is a new tile that matches the damaged one in color and size. Using a tile that doesn’t match can make the repaired section look unattractive.
How to Repair Floor Tiles Using Epoxy Glue
One method of repairing floor tiles is using epoxy glue. If the crack on the tile is minor and hasn’t caused much damage, instead of replacing it, you can use epoxy glue to fill the crack. The steps for using epoxy glue are :
- Prepare the epoxy according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Apply the epoxy to the crack using precise tools.
- Ensure the crack is completely filled with epoxy.
- After the epoxy hardens, check for any excess and remove it with a thin blade.
- You can also paint over the epoxy to match the tile’s color for a more aesthetic finish.
Important Tips for Repairing Floor Tiles
- Repairs should be done by professionals to avoid mistakes in grouting, leveling, or applying adhesive.
- Only a skilled craftsman should remove damaged tiles, as improper methods can damage surrounding tiles.
- Proper slope grading during repairs also requires expertise and proper tools.
Final Note
Since tile repair is a specialized task, it’s recommended to seek the help of experienced professionals to ensure the job is done correctly and efficiently.