How to Fix Cracked Tiles Like a Pro: A Step-by-Step Guide

Updated at: 07/02/2025

Cracked tiles. A common household eyesore that can instantly detract from even the most beautifully designed room. Whether it's a single, unfortunate casualty in your kitchen backsplash or a larger area suffering from damage, the sight of fractured ceramic can be frustrating. Fortunately, fixing cracked tiles doesn't necessitate a costly professional call-out. With the right tools and a little patience, you can achieve a seamless repair that will blend seamlessly with the rest of your tiling. Forget unsightly cracks and uneven surfaces; regaining the pristine look of your tiles is entirely within your reach.

This guide will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to tackle this common home repair. From assessing the damage and selecting the appropriate materials to mastering the application techniques, we'll walk you through each step of the process, transforming those unsightly cracks into a practically invisible repair. Let's dive into our step-by-step guide and learn how to fix those cracked tiles like a pro!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Handheld grout saw
  • Hammer
  • Chisel
  • Wet/dry vacuum
  • Pre-mixed thinset
  • ¼ inch notched trowel
  • New tile
  • Grout float
  • Damp sponge
  • Clean dry cloth
  • Grout sealant
Safety Guidelines
  • Always wear safety glasses and a dust mask to protect your eyes and lungs from flying debris and tile dust.
  • Use caution when working with power tools. Ensure the area is well-ventilated and follow all manufacturer's safety instructions.
  • If the cracked tile is in a high-traffic area or presents a significant tripping hazard, consider replacing the tile rather than attempting a repair. A poorly repaired tile can worsen over time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Remove the Cracked Tile

    • Cut around the cracked tile with a handheld grout saw and scrape away remaining grout.
    • Tap the cracked tile with a hammer to break it into smaller pieces.
    • Pry the broken pieces from the adhesive using a chisel.
    • Chip away remaining adhesive with a hammer and chisel.
    Chip away remaining adhesive with a hammer and chisel.Chip away remaining adhesive with a hammer and chisel.Chip away remaining adhesive with a hammer and chisel.Chip away remaining adhesive with a hammer and chisel.
    Remove the Cracked Tile
    • Clean the area with a wet/dry vacuum.
    Clean the area with a wet/dry vacuum.
    Remove the Cracked Tile

  2. Prepare and Install the New Tile

    • Spread a layer of pre-mixed thinset with a ¼ inch notched trowel onto the bare floor, creating ridges.
    • Carefully place the new tile, ensuring it's flat and flush with surrounding tiles.
    • Let the thinset cure for 24 hours.
    Let the thinset cure for 24 hours.Let the thinset cure for 24 hours.Let the thinset cure for 24 hours.
    Prepare and Install the New Tile

  3. Grout and Finish

    • Apply pre-mixed grout, using a grout float to work it into the seam. Let it sit for 15 minutes.
    • Remove grout residue with a damp sponge, then buff with a clean dry cloth after two hours.
    • Apply grout sealant once the grout is fully dry.
    Apply grout sealant once the grout is fully dry.Apply grout sealant once the grout is fully dry.Apply grout sealant once the grout is fully dry.
    Grout and Finish

Read more: Fixing Drywall Nail Pops: A Quick and Easy DIY Guide

Tips

  • Scrape away any remaining grout to prevent damage to other tiles.
  • Use pre-mixed grout for small tile repairs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using the wrong adhesive

Reason: Incorrect adhesive type or improper application can lead to the repair failing quickly, causing the tile to crack again or become loose.
Solution: Always use a high-quality, tile-specific adhesive appropriate for the type of tile and substrate.

2. Insufficient curing time

Reason: Rushing the process and not allowing the adhesive to fully cure before applying grout or walking on the repaired area can weaken the bond and cause cracking.
Solution: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for adhesive curing time and avoid applying grout or putting weight on the repaired area before it's fully set.