Frequently, the most difficult part is attempting to locate an suitable match. Once you have located a match to replace the broken section of tile then all you'll require is some tools and materials to get going. You'll need a small bag of grout, grout sealer, tile adhesive, a putty knife, a chisel, a nailset and a hammer. When you have acquired these items you're ready to begin.
Get rid of all the grout which surrounds the broken section of tile using a chisel or putty knife and a hammer. Next, wearing your eye protection, use a nailset and a hammer to place a hole in the center of the broken tile. Be cautious not to chip any of the bordering tiles, and avoid pushing the nailset into the material underneath.
Using a glass cutter mark an X across the face of the tile from corner to corner. Next, using a hammer and chisel, start to gently strike the tile beginning at the center of the damaged tile.
Take out all the remaining pieces of the busted tile. Using your putty knife to scrape the region clear of all left over debris. There will commonly be quite a bit of debris left over so be sure to scrape the area well.
Next, you will need to prime the area by applying a latex primer and permit it to completely dry out before continuing.
Once the primer has fully dried out, test fit the new tile in the opening. It should bear an equal opening on all sides and must as well be flush to the bordering surfaces. Apply the adhesive material to the back of the tile and directly position it into the area that's being repaired. Be sure to apply even pressure using both hands, lightly twisting on the new tile until it's level with the bordering tiles.
Using masking tape or painters tape, tape the new piece of tile to the bordering area and leave it to set up for eight to twelve hours before continuing to the next step.
After the tile has set up, take the tape off and clean around the repaired tile once again be sure that no debris or dust is in the cracks.
Blend the grout following the manufacturers instructions. Using a float, load it with the grout that you have just blended. Spread out the grout across the repaired area making certain to force it into the cracks. Scrape away all extra grout by positioning your float at an angle and making certain the grout is even and smooth. Permit the grout to set up for approximately two hours before continuing to the next step.
Get rid of all of the extra grout using a moist sponge. Rinse out the sponge often and keep it clean. Permit the grout to dry for at least twenty four hours before exposing it to water.
After three to four days the new grout will be fully cured. You can now apply a grout sealer on the new grout. Grout seal is available at most local paint or hardware stores.
Replacement of a damaged tile is a fairly easy chore and the majority of homeowners should not have any trouble completing this job.
