Replacing Bathroom Tiles

This guide details how to successfully complete this project in 6 easy steps including removing the grout and tile applying new mortar and setting the new tiles.

Replacing bathroom tiles.

If you find a damaged tile or two in your floor it is much easier to remove and replace them than installing a new tile floor altogether. Finding replacement ceramic and clay tiles can be time consuming and frustrating. Replace the tile by pushing it into the adhesive or thinset firmly so it is bedded in the material. A floor covered with ceramic tile is about as durable and low maintenance a surface as you can get until a cast iron pot slips from your hand or you drop the wrench when tightening that elbow joint under the bathroom sink.

But if your tile is older you need to be prepared for the fact that an exact match might not be available. But even then you ll be glad to have tile underfoot because replacing a broken or chipped one is pretty simple to do. Spread thinset on back of tile and press tile to wall. Whether you re replacing tiles on the bathroom wall or floor first cut out and remove the old tiles to clean out the area when you re ready to install your new tile apply a layer of mortar or thin set to hold the tiles in place before applying grout between them.

Make sure the joints around the tile are uniform and the surface of the newly installed tile s are flush with the surrounding tiles. Learn how to regrout bathroom tile. Wait 30 minutes then mix tile grout following manufacturer s directions 12. Simplify the tough grout removal part with an inexpensive power grinder.

Apply grout with fingertip to fill hard to reach areas 14. Removing floor tile can be a difficult and time consuming project and the challenges often remain hidden until the project is underway. Attach the removal unit and set the bit depth to 1 4 in. Water and time can damage older bathroom floors causing tiles to crack and grout to come loose.

At the very least finding replacement tiles will require trips to your local tile contractors. Depending on the construction the tile may be attached to bare cement a plywood or mason board underlayment or even affixed to a previously installed floor. Repeat for all replacement tiles 11. Over time your bathroom tiles may get damaged or look outdated but fortunately you can replace them in an afternoon.

It speeds up the job so you can move on the easier parts regrouting and polishing the tile. A bathroom remodel frequently starts with the replacement of the floor tile.