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Replacing a Ceramic Floor Tile
If it was properly installed, your ceramic floor was built
on top of a double layered plywood base. This greatly
reduces the risk of tiles being damaged through everyday use
as it prevents the floor from bending under the weight of
your footsteps. However, a significant impact (i.e. when a
heavy object is dropped) can cause damage to the tiles,
which some people will choose to live with for the rest of
their lives. And yet, it is fairly simple to replace the
damaged tile.
For the purposes of this guide, we will assume that you kept
the extra tiles and grout required for the repair when the
ceramic flooring was originally installed. The procedure is
the same, whether you have to replace one or several tiles.
Cleaning grout with chlorine bleach
To clean the grout around bathroom ceramic tiles, apply a
diluted solution of one half water and one half chlorine
bleach (more concentrated if necessary as long as the
solution doesn't cause stains), with a small paint roller.
Rinse with copious amounts of water after a short reaction
period. Dirt and mold will disappear and impeccably clean
joints will remain.
Ceramic on solid surfaces
You want to lay down a ceramic floor, but the existing
surface is warped? There are two ways to go. Spread a layer
of cement, making sure that the underlying structure can
support the weight. Or, build a sub-floor over a layer of
tarpaper, levelling the underboards, sixteen inch center to
center, with cedar shims. Cover the entire surface with
tongue and grooved plywood screwed at every eight inches.
Clean ceramic and caulked joints
To keep ceramic tiles and caulked joints around the bathtub
clean and stain-free, wash them thoroughly with a solution
of chlorine bleach diluted in water. The solution will not
only clean, but will make them more resistant to stains.
Ceramic can be painted
To avoid a big renovation job that requires removing old
ceramic tiles, it is possible to paint them inexpensively
with the color of your choice. Sand the tiles lightly and
apply a micro pourous primer like Coverstain, Bin or Zinger.
Cleaning ceramic after installation
After installing ceramic tiles, wash the tiles with a
solution of water and vinegar to efficiently remove grout
residue and assure a clean, shiny floor. |
