DIY How to Replace a damaged Ceramic Tile

DIY How to 

Replace a damaged Ceramic Tile

Tools and Materials
Drop cloths and other coverings  
Replacement tiles  
A grout saw  
A clean cloth or sponge  
Safety goggles  
Latex gloves and work gloves  
Chisel  
Mason's hammer  
Large sponge  
Putty knife  
Bucket  
Wallboard patching plaster  
Water based tile adhesive  
Wall grout  
Rubber spatula or flexible plastic spreader

Even though ceramic tiles are among the most durable of materials, problems can and do occur. It is important for homeowners to know how to replace damaged ceramic tiles.

Ceramic tiles become damaged for many reasons, but one of the most common involves substandard installation. If the ceramic tiles are installed over a surface that is not sufficiently solid, damage can result. 

Accessories installed on the tiles may damage them, and the tiles may need to be replaced.

Step 1 - Protect the Area
Lay a canvas drop cloth or other covering to protect nearby surfaces

Step 2 - Prepare the Area
Use a grout saw to remove the grout from around the damaged tile to reduce the risk of damaging adjacent tiles. Work slowly and carefully to avoid causing further damage.

Step 3 - Break the Damaged Tile
Use a chisel or a mason's hammer to break away the damaged tile. The damaged tile can be broken into as many pieces as necessary to remove it. Do not to damage the base material. Wear protective goggles.

Step 4 - Prepare the Surface
Use a stiff putty knife to remove old adhesive or pieces of tile. If a hole was made in the wall while removing the tile, a patching plaster should be applied. If the hole is deeper than .25-inches, then it should be filled.

Step 5 - Apply Adhesive.
Coat the back of the replacement tile with a water based adhesive using a putty knife. The coat of adhesive should be even, but not too thick. It is important to read the instructions carefully before proceeding.

Step 6 - Place the Tile
The tile should be pressed firmly in place; ensure that it is flat and level with the surrounding tiles. The corner of the putty knife can be used to clean excess adhesive that may seep between the tiles. Excess adhesive can be removed from the face of the tile using a cloth or damp sponge.

Step 7 - Finishing
Once the tile has been pressed into place, the adhesive should be allowed to dry for at least 24 hours. When the adhesive is dry, the grout should be mixed according to the manufacturers' specifications and pressed into the joints using a rubber spatula or a flexible plastic spreader. When applying the grout, be sure to press firmly and move across the tile joints in a diagonal direction