How to Replace a Broken Floor Tile
Remove a cracked or damaged tile and install a new one
What You'll Need
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Tools
Grout saw or oscillating tool
For removing grout
Cold chisel and hammer
Putty knife or scraper
Notched trowel
Rubber grout float
Safety glasses
Work gloves
Materials
Step-by-Step Instructions
Remove grout around the tile
15-20 minutes
Use a grout saw or oscillating tool with a grout blade to remove the grout around the damaged tile. Be careful not to chip adjacent tiles. Remove all grout down to the tile edge.
Pro Tip
Angling the blade slightly toward the damaged tile protects the good tiles.
Warning
Wear safety glasses - grout chips can fly.
Break out the damaged tile
15-20 minutes
Cover the tile with a cloth to contain fragments. Start in the center and use a hammer and cold chisel to break the tile into pieces. Work from center toward edges. Remove all pieces.
Warning
Broken tile is extremely sharp. Wear gloves and safety glasses.
Remove old adhesive
10-15 minutes
Use a cold chisel and hammer, or a scraper, to remove old thin-set mortar from the subfloor. The surface needs to be relatively flat for the new tile to sit level.
Pro Tip
Don't worry about getting every bit - just remove high spots and major buildup.
Clean and prep the area
5-10 minutes
Vacuum out all debris and dust. Wipe the opening with a damp sponge. Let dry. Test-fit the new tile to ensure it fits with room for grout lines.
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Track This Project FreeApply thin-set mortar
10 minutes
Mix thin-set according to package directions. Apply a layer to the subfloor using a notched trowel. Also apply a thin layer to the back of the tile (back-buttering). This ensures good adhesion.
Pro Tip
Work quickly - thin-set begins to skin over after about 10 minutes.
Set the tile
5 minutes
Carefully lower the tile into position. Press down firmly and wiggle slightly to set it in the mortar. Insert tile spacers to maintain even grout lines. The tile should be level with surrounding tiles.
Pro Tip
Use a level or straightedge across multiple tiles to check for evenness.
Let thin-set cure
24 hours
Allow the thin-set to cure for at least 24 hours before grouting. Don't step on the tile during this time.
Grout the tile
30-45 minutes
Remove tile spacers. Mix grout and apply with a rubber float, working diagonally across the tile. Press grout firmly into joints. Wait 10-15 minutes, then wipe off excess with a damp sponge. Let cure 24 hours before sealing.
Pro Tip
Match the existing grout color - bring a sample to the store if needed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Damaging adjacent tiles while removing grout
- Not removing enough old mortar (new tile sits too high)
- Thin-set drying before tile is placed
- Not letting thin-set cure before grouting
- Using wrong grout color (very noticeable)
Safety Warnings
- Broken tile is razor sharp - always wear gloves
- Wear safety glasses when chiseling
- Knee pads are recommended for floor work
When to Call a Professional
If multiple tiles are broken (may indicate subfloor issue), if you can't find matching tile, or if tiles are over radiant heating.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Project Overview
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
- Time
- 1-2 hours (plus grout cure time)
- Est. Cost
- $15–$50
- Tools
- 7 items
- Materials
- 4 items
- Steps
- 8
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