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

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. 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. Remove the old grout First, you'll need to remove the old grout surrounding the cracked tile.   Cut out the old grout using a grout saw. Short, back-and-forth movements seem to be the most effective. Using the tip of the screwdriver, scrape out the remaining grout. Sometimes the hammer can be useful to start the screwdriver, but don't whack it too hard. Be careful not to damage the surrounding tile while working. Remove the broken tile Use the hammer and chisel to crack the tile in an X-shape pattern. If you tap too hard, other tiles may crack. Try using many soft taps rather than one thunderbolt strike. After the tile is broken into several pieces, pry them out with the screwdriver and chisel. Chip out the old adhesive. What remains is a nice, tidy space left for the new tile. Shaping the tile (optional) Is the old tile next to a plumbing fixture or on a corner? If not, skip this step and read Step 4. If the answer is yes, the tile needs to be cut or shaped to fit. Use a tile nipper to make the alteration. Start from the center of the tile edge that you'll be shaping. Refer back frequently to the plumbing fixture or corner piece for the correct shape. If you remove too much, you'll have to start over. Also, don't bite off more than you can chew with the tile nipper. Many small nibbles makes it easier on you and reduces the chance of ruining the tile. Once you have a good fit, smooth out any rough edges with some sandpaper. Spread the adhesive Spread a 1/8" layer of tile adhesive on the back of the tile with the butter knife, or spatula. Don't spread adhesive right to the edge of the tile. Press the tile in place, taking care that it's straight. Use several pieces of masking tape to hold it in place. If some adhesive spreads into the grout space, clean it out with the screwdriver, then wipe the tile clean. Let the adhesive cure. The package will tell you how long to wait.

Smooth the grout

Grout is used to fill the gap between the new tile and the surrounding tile. It's sold as a powder, which you need to mix yourself according to the manufacturer's directions.

• Put the rubber gloves on, if you have them. Take some grout in one hand, and press it into the space around the tile with a finger of the other hand. Smooth it out to match the surrounding grout.
• Use a damp sponge to wipe the excess grout off the tile. When the grout dries a bit, you can rub off any film that remains.

Wait for it to dry thoroughly before using the shower or tub. Check the manufacturer's direction for specific times. of the ground.

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