Repair your cracked tiles using these tricks

Need to repair cracked tiles? We're going to discuss the common types of damage wall and floor tiles are prone to, and offer step-by-step instructions on how to fix each issue. We'll also provide insights into hiring the right tradesperson for more complex repairs along with their associated costs.

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Needing to repair cracked tiles isn't uncommon. Although they significantly enhance the aesthetics of your home, the amount of traffic they endure means repairs or replacements are sometimes necessary.

It's best to repair broken floor tiles as soon as possible to avoid further problems. However, did you know that with the right knowledge and a little effort, you can attempt tile chip repair yourself, restoring them to their former glory?

Keep reading to learn how to fix a broken tile, tackle hairline crack repair, and grout crack repair too.

Repairing cracked tiles on your floor or wall

Broken floor tiles are a common occurrence due to dropped objects or impacts. Consequently, repairing them requires careful removal and replacement, especially those tiles on your wall!

Tools and materials

• Safety goggles

• Hammer

• Chisel

• Adhesive or tile mortar

• Grout

• Tile spacers

• Grout float

• Sponge

• Tile cutter or wet saw (if necessary)

Step-by-step guide

1. Wear your safety goggles to protect your eyes from any flying debris

2. Use a hammer and chisel to break the damaged tile into smaller pieces (NB: Begin at the centre and work your way out towards the edges)

3. Carefully remove the broken pieces, being sure not to damage the surrounding tiles

4. Clean the area thoroughly, removing any adhesive or mortar residue

5. Apply adhesive or tile mortar to the back of the replacement tile and press it firmly into the space

6. Use tile spacers to ensure proper alignment with the surrounding tiles

7. Allow the adhesive or mortar to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions

8. Remove the tile spacers and apply grout using a grout float, ensuring it fills the gaps completely

9. Wipe off excess grout with a sponge, rinsing it frequently

10. Allow the grout to cure as per the manufacturer's instructions

11. Clean the tiles for a polished finish

How to fix a cracked tile without replacing it

If you're particularly attached to your flooring, you might prefer to repair a cracked floor tile instead of replacing it.

Tools and materials

• Epoxy adhesive

• Cleaning solution

• Sandpaper

• Putty knife

• Grout (if necessary)

Step-by-step guide

1. Clean the cracked area with a suitable cleaning solution and let it dry completely

2. Apply the epoxy adhesive to the crack using a putty knife and make sure it fills the entire gap

3. Press the cracked tile together gently, aligning the edges as closely as possible

4. Hold for one minute

5. Wipe off any excess adhesive using a damp cloth

6. Allow the adhesive to dry and harden according to the manufacturer's instructions

7. If the crack is still visible, use fine-grit sandpaper to gently sand the repaired area until it's level with the tile surface

8. Clean the tile thoroughly to remove any dust or debris

NB: If required, apply matching grout to the repaired area using a grout float. Clean off excess grout with a sponge.

Read our blog on How to restore Victorian floor tiles for a showhome finish.

On Checkatrade, you'll only find trades who meet our high standards and pass up to 12 checks.

Hairline crack tile repair for your walls and floor

Hairline cracks are tiny and barely noticeable. They appear over time due to settling or temperature fluctuations. The good news is, hairline crack tile repair is something you can do with minimal fuss and effort.

Tools and materials

• Tile filler or epoxy filler

• Putty knife

• Cleaning solution

• Fine-grit sandpaper

Step-by-step guide

1. Clean the cracked area using a cleaning solution and allow it to dry completely

2. Apply a small amount of tile filler or epoxy filler into the hairline crack. Use a putty knife or your finger

3. Smooth the filler over the crack and make sure it blends seamlessly with the tile surface

4. Wipe off any excess filler with a damp cloth

5. Allow the filler to dry and harden according to the manufacturer's instructions

6. If necessary, lightly sand the repaired area with fine-grit sandpaper to create a smooth finish

7. Clean the tiles to remove any dust or debris

Grout crack repair

Cracked grout not only looks unsightly but also leads to water damage and further tile damage if not repaired properly.

Thankfully, you can tackle grout crack repair yourself in just a few steps.

Tools and materials

• Grout removal tool or utility knife

• Grout

• Grout float

• Sponge

• Grout sealer (optional)

Step-by-step guide

1. Use a grout removal tool or utility knife to carefully scrape out the cracked grout (carefully so you don't damage the tiles!)

2. Clean the grout lines thoroughly to remove any debris or lose particles

3. Prepare the new grout according to the manufacturer's instructions

4. Apply the new grout into the cleaned grout lines using a grout float – make sure it fills the gaps completely

5. Remove excess grout with the grout float at a 45-degree angle

6. Allow the grout to dry for the recommended time

7. Wipe off any haze or residue on the tiles with a damp sponge, rinsing it frequently

Optional: Apply a grout sealer to protect the grout from staining and moisture penetration. Follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Read our blog on How to regrout tiles for a show home finish for further advice.

When to hire a professional tiler

While handling minor tile repairs using your DIY skills is well within your remit, more complex repairs or larger-scale tile installations require the expertise of a professional tradesperson.

When hiring a tradesperson, consider the following:

Tile installation expertise: Look for a qualified and experienced tile installer who specialises in the type of tiles you have. Request quotes from multiple professionals and ask about their previous work.

An easier way to see if a tiler is the real deal is to search through the tilers we've checked and approved to become a Checkatrade member.

On Checkatrade, you'll only find trades who meet our high standards and pass up to 12 checks.

General cost estimates: The cost of hiring a tradesperson will vary. It depends on factors such as your location, the complexity of the job, and the type of tiles you have.

On average, expect to pay between £20 and £40 per square meter for labour. This excludes the cost of materials, which will depend on their quality and the number you need.

Summary

Repairing broken floor or wall tiles doesn't have to be a daunting task. With the right materials, techniques, and a little patience, you can restore the beauty of your tiles in no time.

Whether you need to know how to repair cracked tiles, fix broken floor tiles, repair hairline cracks, or restore grout, our step-by-step instructions will help you achieve professional-looking results.

Remember: for more complex repairs or extensive tile work, we advise asking a professional tradesperson to help, which will guarantee a seamless and durable finish.

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