Hi Kaile,
I have a crack in my tile floor. The crack is located near my kitchen sink, and I am fearful of cutting my feet on it. How can I fix the broken tile?
Signed, Cracked
A:
Dear Cracked,
I’m making the assumption that the crack in your tile floor is contained to only one tile. (Typically, if a series of tiles are cracked in a continuous line, or if your floor is cracked along a grout line, it is a sign that your sub-floor is improperly secured.)
I’m hopeful that you have a replacement tile (when tiling, I recommend buying extra tiles for repairs such as the one you are making). You will also want to purchase a small amount of “thin set,” as this is the best type of cement to use with your tile. Additionally, you will want to purchase a small amount of grout. Be sure to thoroughly clean your existing grout before trying to match its color.
Here are the steps for repairing your cracked tile:
• To avoid collateral damage, place a strip of two- to three-inch wide masking tape around the perimeter of the damaged tile’s grout.
• Once this is done, you will want to use a grout saw (don’t sweat — this is a small hand tool that kind of looks like a toothbrush with metal teeth). Using a back-and-forth motion, you will want to work your way around the perimeter of the tile. The grout saw will reduce the harden grout to powder, and then you can clean up the debris.
• Now, clear the deck of any cats or dogs, as you are about to demolish the cracked tile. Put on your safety goggles, place a brick chisel in the center of the cracked tile and then hit the chisel with a hammer. This will shatter the tile and make removal easier.
• Once the area has been scraped and cleaned, it’s time to install your replacement tile. To do this, mix up a small amount of thin set and butter the back of the new tile with an even layer. Depending on the size of the tile, you will want the thin set to be between 1/8- and 1/4-inch thick.
• Set tile in place. To insure consistent and even spacing, place plastic spacers around the perimeter of the tile. You will want the spacers to match the existing width of your grout lines. Let sit for 24 hours.
• Remove plastic spacers. Mix a small amount of grout and install using a small rubber squeegee. Be sure to work the grout deeply into the opening. Once the space is filled, wipe off any excess by using a sponge and clean cloth.
Kaile Warren of Windham is CEO/Founder of the national handyman franchise Rent-A-Husband. Kaile is also a national home improvement expert for the CBS Early Show, HGTV and Parade Magazine. When not on the road or working he spends his time teaching his newly adopted white shepherd, Maintenance, how-to ... Send your questions for Kaile to editor@themaineswitch.com.