The Steps


Intro:
Before you begin
Step 1:
Remove the old grout
Step 2:
Remove the cracked tile
Step 3:
Shaping the tile (optional)
Step 4:
Spread the adhesive
Step 5:
Smooth the grout



The Necessities


A grout saw (see Keywords), or an old screwdriver

A box of grout that matches the old grout (see Tips)

A new tile that matches the old

Some masking tape

Some tile adhesive

An old butter knife, or spatula

A hammer and chisel

A pair of glasses or safety goggles

A damp sponge

A dry cloth

A tile nipper to cut the tile to fit--if necessary (See Tips)

80-grit sandpaper to smooth the cut tile--if necessary

A pair of rubber gloves



Time


Once you've collected the necessary tools and materials, about 25 minutes.

 

Home and Garden


2torial #0516:
Learn2 Replace a Broken Tile

Avoid the groutful dread!

Ceramic tiles are used in bathrooms for good reason:they look good, they're waterproof and easy to clean. They're not indestructible, though, and every once in a while they crack. And if the cracked tile is in a location where it's often wet, water can seep in the crack and damage the wall behind the tile. So it's something you want to take care of--and not just for aesthetic reasons. Fortunately, repairing a broken tile is pretty simple, especially if you start with this 2torial.

Before You Begin

Protect the tile's surrounding area with cardboard, newspaper or an inexpensive plastic drop cloth from the local hardware or paint store. Using any one of these will also help when time to clean up. If the cracked tile is around a faucet or water handle, you'll need to remove the fixture (generally by unscrewing it) before you begin.

Put on the glasses or safety goggles. Old grout and tile chips will be flying, and the last thing you want is to get some in your eye. In all phases of the project, proceed with care. Excessive force could damage surrounding tiles.

Go 2Step 1




#0458
Fix a Leaky Faucet

#0462
Fix a Zipper

#0515
Repair a Broken Window

#0658
Patch a Hole

 

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