How to Fix, Remove, & Replace Broken or Hollow Marble Tile
By Fred Hueston
As a stone restoration professional, you know how common it is to come across a broken marble tile in both residential and commercial settings. Whether it’s from impact damage, natural cracking, or even underlying issues like a hollow spot beneath the tile, knowing how to tackle this problem quickly and effectively is key to providing top-notch service to your clients. Let’s get into the step-by-step process of removing and replacing a broken marble tile and what to do if you find a hollow tile that might be worth saving.
How to Remove and Replace a Broken Marble Tile
Tools and Materials You’ll Need:
- Utility knife
- Small chisel and hammer
- Angle grinder with diamond blade (optional)
- Shop vacuum
- Thinset or suitable adhesive
- Notched trowel
- Grout that matches the existing color
- Rubber grout float
- Clean sponge
- Safety goggles and dust mask
Step 1: Assess the Damage
Start by checking out the tile. If it’s cracked or shattered, replacing it is usually the best option. But if the tile is just loose or has that hollow sound when tapped, there’s a chance you can save it using an injectable repair product instead of replacing the entire tile.
Step 2: Decide Whether to Inject or Replace
Hollow Tiles:
If the tile sounds hollow but isn’t broken, you can often stabilize it by using an injectable adhesive. These products are designed to flow underneath the tile and bond it to the substrate, preventing further movement and possible cracking.
Broken Tiles:
If the tile is broken or severely damaged, replacement is necessary. Let’s walk through the replacement process first.
Step 3: Remove the Grout
Use a utility knife or a small rotary tool to carefully remove the grout around the damaged tile. Take your time with this step since it helps protect the surrounding tiles.
Step 4: Remove the Broken Tile
Start by gently tapping a small chisel in the center of the broken tile to create a hole. From there, work outward, prying up the tile pieces. Be careful not to damage the surrounding tiles. A diamond blade on an angle grinder can help make precise cuts if needed.
Step 5: Clean the Substrate
Once the tile is out, scrape away the old adhesive and make sure the substrate is clean, smooth, and free of debris. A shop vacuum works great for removing dust.
Step 6: Install the New Tile
Apply thinset adhesive using a notched trowel, covering the area evenly. Press the new tile firmly into place, making sure it lines up with the surrounding tiles. Use spacers if needed to keep the grout lines uniform.
Step 7: Grout the Tile
Once the adhesive has set (usually 24 hours), apply matching grout to the joints using a rubber float. Wipe away the excess grout with a damp sponge, then buff with a clean cloth once dry.
How to Fill Hollow Tiles
If you find a tile that’s hollow but not broken, injectable adhesives can be a great solution. Here’s how to handle it:
Materials Needed:
- Injectable tile adhesive (like epoxy or specialty resin)
- Syringe or injection gun
- Masking tape
- Small drill bit (1/8 inch recommended)
Step 1: Identify the Hollow Area
Tap around the tile with a plastic mallet to locate the hollow spot.
Step 2: Drill Injection Holes
Drill one or two small holes in the grout line around the tile where it sounds hollow. Use a vacuum to remove any dust.
Step 3: Inject the Adhesive
Use a syringe or injection gun to slowly inject the adhesive into the hole until it fills the void beneath the tile. You’ll know it’s full when adhesive starts coming out of adjacent holes.
Step 4: Clean Up
Wipe away any excess adhesive right away. Once the adhesive cures, re-grout the holes to match the surrounding joints.
Choosing whether to replace or fill a damaged marble tile is an important call for any restoration pro. Following these detailed steps will help you get the job done right and keep your client happy. Patience, precision, and the right materials make all the difference.
