Cracked tub surrond tile
2/26/2011 at 7:15:59 PM
I have 6x6 tile on the wall surronding a soaker tub in the bathroom. One tile has mysteriously cracked. It is not at the center of the wall, but not on the edge either. 2 rows up from the tub. There are not tiles above it. Also thengrout is cracked for a couple of feet away from it. My question is can 1 tile be removed and replaced on this gyproc wall, or will the whole surrond and gyproc have to be redone. My guess is that the tile was adhered directly to the gyproc by the builder. I see no evidence of any kind of a grate or backing. Of course the new home warranty is up.
2/27/2011 at 10:02:18 AM
Cracked grout and tiles are often the result of movement of the substrate underneath. Often builders and renovators simply use drywall as a substrate which is not the best material. Denshield, Hardie backerboard or cement board should always be used.
In your case, cracking could be the result of the tub settling. Sometimes, cracked tiles/grout can occur nearby a soap dish as well.
Sometimes grout will crack if it is applied to dry.
Yes individual tiles can be removed and where ever the grout is cracked it should be removed completed excercising care not to chip the tiles. A new tile can be installed and the area regrouted. You can also verify whether drywall was used as a substrated.
I would monitor this area to see if other areas start showing signs of distress.
Regards,
Kingsway Construction Inc.
Glenn Rosborough
2/27/2011 at 7:38:11 PM
Hi,Stewart here of Sct floorcoverings.Yes you can replace the one cracked tile successfully without damaging the surrounding tiles-i would use a small sharp wood chisle to remove the broken tile,being carefull not to damage the surrounding tiles when chipping it out.If you need assistance please call me at 416-295-0906.
2/27/2011 at 10:51:16 PM
Thank you so much for the input. I will try to replace the one tile and hope it doesn't crack again. Will I likely have to replace the gyproc behind that tile?
2/28/2011 at 11:01:59 AM
Yes it is possible to remove a tile without damaging the substrate but much will depend on what type of tile and what was used to apply the tile to the substrate . You will have to exercise care in doing so. First the grout surrounding the tile must be removed. I prefer to score and cut the broken tile into smaller pieces with my grinder or roto zip, again exercising care not to go too deep and cut the substrate (a vacuum will be required to help keep the dust down and fully cover the tub). Using a thin putty blade I slid it behind the tile being carefull not to apply presure to the substrate. You will then have to remove as much of the adhesive off as possible so the the new tile can be level.
Hope this helps.
Kingsway Construction Inc.
Glenn Rosborough
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