Chipped Tile

Tile can get damaged for a variety of reasons. Most often it's due to a crack produced by a dropped dish or heavy object. But it can also break or come loose if the subsurface below moves or shifts from natural settling, earthquakes, or warped wood. Plus, it's always accompanied by the issue of grout, which can discolor, mold, or crack as well. So even though it's sleek and stylish, and even though it's becoming more popular, and even though it's a great product for flooring or countertops (especially in high humidity areas of the home that need quick-drying, non-porous surfaces), you'll probably need to know a little about tile repair since a square or two may someday give out.

Tile Repair
The easiest form of tile repair is cleaning. Since it's usually in contact with moisture, you'll want to make sure to quickly clean up any toxic spills that may stain it and to keep it well ventilated at all times. Plus, you'll occasionally want to clean, bleach, or scour the grout so it won't discolor or get moldy. However, tile repair may be needed if it fades, scratches, or simply needs some remodeling. So make sure you know what kind of damage you've sustained, what kind of material it's made of (porcelain or ceramic, glazed or unglazed), and how many units need to be replaced before beginning. If there's more than one square needing replacement or the damage goes below the surface, you may want to call a professional contractor before you do anything.

Chipped Tile
If there's a chip, never glue it back in place: it looks sloppy and the patch job won't last. But replacing chipped tile requires special tools and technique so if you don't trust yourself, don't force yourself: call a service professional. If capable, you'll first want to rent a grout saw and cut around the damaged square. Then, gently break it a little at a time so as not to damage the subsurface or surrounding tiles (make sure to wear eye protection and use a rag to absorb the blows to avoid stray shrapnel). Clear the old glue from the wall since you'll want a smooth, clean surface. Next, place adhesive on the back of the replacement product and set it in place making sure there are even spaces around it for the grout joints. Weight down the square or hold in place until it's fully dried.

Old Grout
While fixing damaged tiles, you'll also need to deal with grout. Buy a matching product (though new grout will never look exactly the same as older grout) and work it into the areas between the replacement square with a float or a finger. And while you're at it, this may be the best time to completely re-grout the area. Unlike porcelain, grout is porous and therefore can mold, mildew, or discolor. So clean and reseal when it begins to darken. But if it's moldy or has sustained small cracks, you may need to totally replace your grout. In fact, if this occurs there may be something wrong with your subsurface to allow so much moisture penetration. This is a big job though, so it definitely requires a pro.

Common Tiling Problems
As you go through the steps of tile repair, you may run into some standard tiling problems. But don't fret: there are solutions out there.
Matching: When the tile is originally installed, always keep extra squares. Though you may go to the same company and buy the exact same color, each batch has its own distinct shade. So make sure to keep several on hand for future replacement.
Subsurface: While removing tile, many people end up gouging or scratching the drywall beneath, which makes things more complicated. This is one of the benefits a contractor provides: they won't make amateur mistakes.
Adhering: If the replacement piece won't stick, buy special glue made from the same material as the tile itself. Also, if it's not fitting, you may have to sand down the edges.
Protection: To avoid future problems, buy protective barriers for your tile surfaces such as rugs, placemats, or cutting boards.