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Originally Posted On: https://www.mrhandyman.com/dallas/about-us/ask-a-pro/2021/may/how-to-repair-cracked-tiles-in-your-dallas-home/

Discovering a cracked tile on your floor or backsplash is frustrating. Not only is the surface ruined aesthetically, but cracks also cause a range of problems. For instance, broken areas are likely to get worse. What starts off as a hairline fracture could eventually shatter—especially if exposed to pressure from a falling object.

Also, cracks and fractures are sharp. It only takes one unsuspecting foot or little paw to get cut while walking on damaged surfaces. Lastly, since tiles are water resistant they are commonly used materials in bathrooms and kitchens. Both these spaces tend to have a high moisture content. While they stop water from leaking into your subfloor or drywall, when broken they can’t serve this important purpose. This means that even the smallest crack may cause serious harm to your home’s walls and floors.

At Mr. Handyman of Dallas, we understand how important it is to keep your tiles in their best condition. We also know that accidents happen. Whether you dropped something heavy on your floor or your backsplash wasn’t installed properly to begin with, we have the skills and years of experience to handle all your repair needs.

But, there are a few DIY tips and tricks that savvy homeowners should know. While it’s always best to hire service professionals to replace and repair damaged areas, keep reading to discover a few quick-fixes you can use in a pinch.

1. Paint Over the Crack

This method works best for small, hairline cracks. Since this technique isn’t an actual repair but more of a cover up, it should only be employed in urgent situations (say your in-laws are coming over for dinner). Damaged tiles will still need to be fixed.

Take a trip to your local hardware store and find a color that matches as closely as possible to the area in question. Use a tile-specific paint. Bring a sample or a photo of your floor or backsplash to help you find a match. Use a small paintbrush or cotton swab to cover up the crack. Allow the paint to dry for 30 seconds before wiping away any excess.

2. Apply Epoxy

Unlike the above method, this will repair the damage but will not look as aesthetically pleasing. First, clean the area thoroughly as any trapped dirt will be permanently trapped under the epoxy (also referred to as glaze). It’s also important to let the area dry completely before applying epoxy. The easiest choice is clear epoxy, but you can also find colored varieties that may match your surface.

To apply epoxy, use a toothpick and apply multiple thin layers until the crack is filled. Work quickly so the epoxy does not dry before you’re finished. Usually, epoxy takes about a week to fully cure. Read the manufacturer’s instructions so you know for certain.

3. Use Epoxy and Paint

For an effective and aesthetically pleasing repair, combine both techniques. Start by filling the crack with epoxy. Use either a white or clear epoxy if you’re covering it with paint. Then, once it’s dried, use a little paintbrush and apply a small amount of oil or urethane-based paint matching the tile color. Once dry, follow with urethane sealer to prevent the paint from peeling.

4. Try Nail Polish and Wood Glue

This repair process is a little out of the box, but can be completed with materials most homeowners already have at home. First, squeeze wood glue along the crack and spread it to the edges with a toothpick. Wood glue usually takes about 10 minutes to dry.

Then, apply nail polish—choosing a color that closely matches your tile surface. Keep in mind this technique won’t work on porous surfaces, so it’s best with glazed porcelain or ceramic tiles. Let the nail polish dry for at least 10 minutes.

Lastly, go over the repair with a Q-tip and a small amount of nail polish remover. This will remove any excess polish for a smooth finish.

5. Replace the Damaged Piece

The last technique to fix a damaged tile—and one that our pro team is happy to complete for you—is replacing the damaged area completely. Choose a replacement tile that closely matches what you have on your backsplash or floor. If possible, use a spare.

Replacing old tiles and grout requires specialty tools, so it’s a task best completed by professionals. But if you’re a serious DIYer, you can follow these steps:

1. Wear safety goggles and gloves

2. Use a grout saw and scrape away all grout surrounding the damaged tile

3. Once removed, drill four holes in the tile to loosen it

4. Use a chisel to remove any remaining pieces

5. Use a shop vacuum to remove any residual dust or debris

6. Clean the area thoroughly

7. Spread thin-set mortar onto the subfloor using a trowel

8. Make notches in the thin-set with your trowel

9. Carefully drop the tile in place evenly

10. Press it down and let it cure according to the thin-set manufacturer instructions

11. Do not touch it for 24-hours until fully cured

6. Hire the Pros at Mr. Handyman of Dallas!

If you’re not really a DIYer, or if you don’t have the time, tools or inclination to try to repair cracked tiles on your own, hire the pros at Mr. Handyman of Dallas to take care of it for you. Not only does our team have the experience and the expertise needed to fix broken tiles, but we can also install floors, backsplashes and countertops. Our team has worked with:

• Luxury materials like glass

• Ceramic and porcelain

• Natural stone, like marble, granite, slate and limestone

To book a tile repair or replacement appointment with one of our qualified service professionals, we invite you to call our friendly customer service team at 972-627-4518. You can also reach us online by filling out a service request form. We look forward to meeting you and helping with your next project!