How do you fix loose tiles?

[#1]

If a tile wobbles, it means that the adhesive behind has failed and the only thing holding it in place are the grout lines. Once the grout has been removed you should be able to lift the tiles out of the floor. 

If you have just one or two tiles that are loose, you can use a grout saw to cut through the grout. If it's just the grout that's holding them in place, they should be easy to remove.

If it's a more extensive job with several tiles, you might like to invest in a multi-function tool and a diamond attachment for grout removal to remove the tiles.

If the tile does not wobble before it is removed, then it is likely that the adhesive is still stuck to the tile. Unfortunately, there is no easy way to remove the tile without damaging it. If the tile needs to be removed it will probably need to be broken with a mallet and a new tile will need to be installed. It is strongly recommended that you have spare matching tiles before you begin your project.

In order to glue the tiles back in position, you'll likely have to remove some of the existing glue from the back of the tile or floor. If you just glue them back down without removing the existing glue, the tiles will sit slightly proud of the surrounding tiles.

Here are a couple of helpful step-by-step guides: How to remove grout and How to lay floor tiles.

Please remember to wear personal protection such as gloves, goggles and a mask when working on your project. - MitchellMc

[Dave-1]

Afternoon @MitchellMc 

Soooo here is a question, And for once no imediate photo until I go home lol

I have tools stored in my laundry and have managed to drop a screwdrive on the tiles, the corner of one tile has cracked and potentially I can lift the broken bits out. What would you suggest to glue them back with. There seems to be space under the tile for glue a sthe pieces "rock" and the tiles dont sound solid so I suspect a dodgy laying of them in the fist place. 

Not an imediate need (been there for 8ish months) as thought this would be a good place to throw out for ideas.

Dave

[EricL]

Hello @Dave-1 

How bad is the damage? Any chance of a picture? I would probably suggest using Dunlop 250g White Ready To Go Tile Adhesive And Grout. It's a good product and does double duty as both adhesive and grout.

Eric

[Dave-1]

Evening @EricL 

Just took these pics, and even just seeing the old mortar I am thinking I may have to grind some out. Problem is I can tap a fair few of those surrounding tiles and they sound hollow as if there isnt too much mud under them 😕 Dodgy Bro Inc Brothers must have done a shift or two in the Laundry 😕

Ahhh Jigsaw

Think there is so little mud I will have to grind out whatever I can...

If you look closely you can see another crack almost ready to go. The tile sounds hollow thisend of it 😕

Dave

[EricL]

Hi @Dave-1 

Yes, it appears that not enough tile adhesive was used and has caused the tile to split further. I'm still going with my recommendation of using the Dunlop 250g White Ready To Go Tile Adhesive And Grout. Especially if your just after a temporary repair. 

Eric