5 Most-Know Facts About Tile Repair

You know you need one, two, or several floor tiles repaired. If that is all you know, that’s okay! We’re here to tell you more! These are the tips you need to know, given by industry experts:

Tip #1 There are a few common types of tile damage that should be addressed right away.

The most common types of damage that your tiles may experience include being chipped, cracked, or becoming loose. Floor tiles located in high traffic areas can easily become chipped or cracked through an accident, like dropping something heavy on it. This can also happen over time from general wear and tear. Small cracks, “crazing,” can also sometimes appear in the surface of glazed porcelain tiles. Loose tiles occur when there is movement or moisture beneath the tiles which causes them to become loose and crack upwards. 

Tip #2 Different types of tiles need to be repaired in different ways. 

Not all damaged tiles necessarily need to be completely replaced. In fact, chips and cracks can be filled with a close or exact color-matched filler. This is easy to do for a professional who knows exactly what they are doing. Other types of tile damage may require the need for the tile to be completely removed and a new one laid down. Size matters here! The larger the tile, the more work will need to be done in order to replace it. 

Tip #3 Save your tiles.

It is always a good idea to keep tiles left over from remodeling projects or the original installation in case they need to be replaced in the future. If you have done this, it saves you having to track down the same make and size of tile so many years later.

Tip #4 The process of repairing a tile is fairly simple.

The basic process of repairing a tile involves using filler to repair chips, cracks, or scratches in the tile surface. The other option is to fully replace the tile. It is crucial that the old adhesive under the damaged tile is removed prior to installing the new tile. Doing so allows the brand new tiles to sit flush against the wall and/or floor surface. This avoids any possible slippage. Replacing a tile usually involves regrouting as well, meaning you will need to use a grout which matches the existing grout as closely as possible.

Tip #5 Tile repair is not a DIY job!

If it’s fairly simple, you can do it on your own right? Not so! Depending on the damage, the majority of tile repairs are best undertaken by a professional. There is a significant possibility of damaging surrounding tiles during a DIY repair job. This only serves to create a larger and even more costly problem than the original repair. There are also the issues of sourcing the replacement grout and tiles. Do you have the correct tools and materials needed to undertake the repair? 

It is important to weigh up the advantages of hiring an expert when you need tile repair in South Florida. You want the repair done quickly, and you also need to ensure that it will be a good-looking and durable solution. That means calling in the team at Florida Tile & Grout for the job!