Quick answer
Chip out the broken tile and old adhesive. Spread new adhesive with a notched trowel. Press the replacement tile level with its neighbours. Grout the joints once the adhesive is dry.
A cracked tile looks bad and can let water through. You can swap it for a new one without retiling the whole floor.
What you’ll need
- replacement tile
- grout
- tile adhesive
- notched trowel
- grout float
- sponge
- bucket
- cloth
- safety glasses
Step by step
- 1
Protect the area
Cover nearby tiles with masking tape. Put on safety glasses.
- 2
Remove the broken tile
Drill holes in the centre, then chip it out with a cold chisel and hammer. Work from the centre outward to avoid damaging surrounding tiles.
- 3
Scrape the old adhesive
Use a scraper or chisel to clean the floor bed down to a flat, solid surface.
- 4
Check the fit
Dry-lay the new tile to make sure it sits flush. Trim edges if needed.
- 5
Spread adhesive
Mix tile adhesive to the consistency of toothpaste. Spread it with a notched trowel, combing ridges in one direction.
- 6
Set the tile
Press the new tile into place. Wiggle it slightly so the ridges collapse. Use spacers to match the grout lines.
- 7
Grout and clean
Wait for the adhesive to set, usually 24 hours. Mix grout and press it into the joints with a grout float. Wipe excess grout off the face with a damp sponge before it dries.
Wear safety glasses when chipping out tile. Sharp fragments can fly into your eyes. The broken edges are razor-sharp; handle pieces with a cloth, not bare hands. If the floor or the old adhesive dates from before the mid-1980s, it may contain asbestos. Do not break it up — stop and consult a specialist.
Common mistakes
- Hitting adjacent tiles while removing the broken one
- Leaving old adhesive lumps that make the new tile sit proud
- Grouting before the adhesive has fully cured
- Using too much water when wiping grout, which weakens the joints
Frequently asked
What if I cannot find an exact match for the old tile?
Swap the broken tile with one from a hidden area, such as inside a cupboard. Fit the new mismatch there instead.
Can I tile over the old adhesive?
No. The new adhesive needs a clean, solid bed or the tile will crack again.
