How to Replace a Slate Flooring Tile

When a slate tile is chipped, cracked, or broken it is important to replace it as soon as possible. A cracked tile can damage the grout, which can affect the surrounding tiles on your floor. Replacing a slate tile is easier than many people think. Follow these basic guidelines to replace a broken slate tile:

Tools

• Grout scraper
• Chisel
• Hammer
• Putty knife
• Notched Trowel
• Thinset Mortar
• Grout (matching grout to the rest of the floor)
• Mallet (rubber)

*It is helpful to purchase extra tiles and grout when first installing your floor to make sure you have enough matching materials.

Instructions

• Carefully remove the surrounding grout using your grout scraper
• Using the hammer and chisel, gently but firmly crack the tile in the center. This should break the slate tile into pieces
• Remove the tile and scrape the old adhesive with the putty knife. Be sure to remove all remaining adhesive and grout.
• Clean the substrate (subfloor) and allow it to dry.
• Apply a small amount of thinset mortar using your notched trowel and carefully lay your tile. Press firmly. Use tile spacers to make sure the tile is straight. Allow tile to dry for 12 hours.
• Apply the grout carefully and allow it to dry overnight.
• Clean any grout that has remained on the tile. Seal as necessary.

Replacing your tiles when they are damaged will keep your entire flooring looking new and professional for years.