Tile chip repair: A chip off the old block

When you think of tile chip repair, you’ll probably want to reach for the phone and call a professional. But wait – maybe you can save time and money. Our guide will show you how to fix cracked ceramic tiles yourself, and give you some suggestions for the best adhesive products.

Tile chip repair: Step by step

Before you begin, take a close look at the tile and determine the damage. If it’s just a small crack or chip, you can fill in the area with a sealant. Tiles in a bad state may have to be replaced altogether.

Ceramic tile repair

Follow these simple steps to carry out tile chip repair.

1. Get the surfaces ready. They should be clean and dry, and fit together as closely as possible.
2. Apply the adhesive or sealant. If you’re bonding two surfaces, apply a small amount of adhesive (always following the manufacturer’s instructions) and press the surfaces together immediately. Hold them together until the bond forms. If you’re sealing a chip or crack, simply apply the sealant.
3. Clean up any excess residue. Use a sharp blade or cloth soaked in acetone to remove excess adhesive or sealant.

Ceramic tile removal

If ceramic tile repair is not an option, you’ll need to remove and replace the tile instead. Here’s how:

1. Remove the grout. Use a hammer and chisel, and make sure you’re protected with safety goggles and gloves.
2. Take out the tile. To keep the tile intact, wedge the chisel under a corner and gently pry the tile away with the hammer. Focus on the corners and accessible sides; too much pressure on one area may result in damage. If you don’t intend to reuse the tile, you can remove it more bluntly with a drill or hammer and chisel.
3. Remove old material. Use the chisel to get rid of old tile backer or other substrates.

Ceramic tile insertion

Follow these steps for the perfect finish.

1. Use a level to check the positioning of the tile. Remember that you’ll need to add mortar before inserting the new tile, so it should sit lower than the surrounding tiles.
2. Apply mortar. Use a trowel to apply mortar to the gap.
3. Insert the tile carefully. Remove any excess mortar immediately.
4. Once the mortar has set, apply new grout. Spread the grout into the joints with a trowel. Remove any excess grout before it dries using a wet sponge.
5. Seal the grout. Use a strong, long-lasting sealant like UniBond Triple Protection Anti-Mould Sealant.

The best products for ceramic tile repair

Tiles are mostly found in bathrooms and kitchens, and thus are at risk from mould. Make sure you choose a sanitary sealant that’s durable and waterproof, such as UniBond Triple Protection Anti-Mould Sealant. Any non-sanitary adhesive or grout you use should have the same qualities, which is why we recommend the 2-in-1 UniBond Wall Tile Adhesive & Grout: Triple Protection Anti-Mould.
What about the best glue for broken ceramic tiles? If you think the tile chip repair will be a quick fix, try UniBond 100% Power Glue. It’s extremely strong and also waterproof, making it perfect for use on bathroom and kitchen tiles.