How To Fix Cracked Tile in 5 Steps

Quick Answer: Here’s how to mend broken tiles: Evaluate the damage, collect tools and materials, prepare the tile, repair the crack, and add fresh grout.

Tiles in kitchens, bathrooms, or as flooring are tough, but not unbreakable. A cracked tile doesn’t mean ripping up the whole surface—repairing it is a manageable kitchen or bath fix. It might take time if you’re new to it, though.

In this guide, the Handybeeman crew walks you through repairing glass or ceramic tiles. With a handful of supplies and some patience, you’ll patch that crack in no time.

Step 1: Evaluate the Damage

Planning a new bathroom floor or kitchen backsplash but facing cracked tiles? Fixing them can spruce up the space while you mull over options.

First, figure out why the tile cracked. An impact—like dropping something heavy—means a straightforward repair. But if the subfloor’s uneven or water-damaged, the fix is temporary unless you address the root issue. For warped subfloors, call a plumber to tackle the cause.

Hairline cracks are simple to mend, often without removal. Larger cracks or shattered sections can be patched, but results won’t match a full replacement. If the tile’s smashed, swapping it out might be best.

Step 2: Collect Tools and Materials

Once you’ve confirmed the tile’s fixable and the base is solid, gather your gear. Set tools near the cracked tile or in a ventilated spot—like a garage or outdoors—for messy work.

Supplies:

• Tile adhesive or epoxy
• Grout
• Sealant
• Paint

Tools:

• Goggles
• Gloves
• Tile saw
• Grout saw
• Grout float
• Hammer
• Chisel
• Paint roller

Match grout, adhesive, and paint to your tile type and room use. No tile saw? Home improvement stores might cut it for you.

Step 3: Prep the Cracked Tile

For big or badly damaged tiles, use a grout saw—move it along the grout until the tile lifts out. Kitchen grout might resist more than shower grout, so go slow.

For smaller tiles, chisel along the grout line with a hammer—work carefully to spare nearby tiles. After removal, sweep and vacuum the base, clearing old adhesive for a flat surface.

Step 4: Mend the Crack

With the tile loose, piece it together using adhesive or epoxy like a puzzle. For multiple cracks or heavy damage, fill gaps with epoxy as best you can.

Clamp the sides and weigh the top until the adhesive sets. A mangled tile might not regain its exact shape, but extra grout will bridge gaps when reinstalled.

Step 5: Add New Grout

Once cured, mix grout and spread it with a float. Set the tile back (aligning with the pattern), finish grouting, and let it dry. Sand the adhesive level, wipe off dust, paint over the epoxy, and seal. For shower tiles, use water-resistant grout, paint, and sealant.

Fixing Cracks Without Removal

Swapping out a cracked tile is quicker than repairing severe damage, but for small cracks, you can fix it in place:

• Sweep around the tile.
• Wipe it with a clean cloth.
• Mix epoxy per instructions, apply thinly over the crack.
• Let it cure (hours), sand smooth, paint, and dry.

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Tips for Tile Repair

Every crack’s unique, but these pointers boost your DIY game:

• Paint Smart: Skip oil—it won’t stick.
• Tap Lightly: Use a small mallet, not force.
• Keep Spares: Save extras—replacements are tough to match.
• Check Neighbors: Cracks might hint at deeper issues.
• Clean Below: Clear adhesive for a flat fit.
• Wait It Out: Let epoxy fully set before moving on.

Know your limits—hairline cracks are doable, but glass tiles or big projects might need Handybeeman.

Maintaining Tiled Surfaces

Tile’s durable and low-fuss—maintaining it beats fixing cracks. A solid routine keeps it sharp for years:

• Avoid bangs and drops.
• Skip extreme heat or cold zones.
• Mop up spills fast.
• Prep subfloors right.
• Use humidity-friendly grout and glue.

Even with care, tiles break—call pros if it’s too much.

Contact Handybeeman for Tile Fixes

Reading about tile repair is easier than doing it. For prized tiles or perfect results, trust Handybeeman. Contact Handybeeman today for expert remodeling and repairs!

This guide is general—your case may differ. Handybeeman isn’t liable for outcomes; consult pros for spot-on advice.

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