High-quality tile that has been installed and maintained properly can last for decades. If your tile is beginning to show signs of wear and tear, you may wonder whether it needs to be replaced or if you could get by with a deep cleaning and some simple repairs. This blog post will help you determine whether it’s time to get new tile or restore your current flooring.
Scroll to the bottom of this page to find a special discount code that will help you save on samples!
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Signs Your Tile May Need to Be Replaced (or Repaired)
Below, discover the signs that it’s time to replace your tile.
Tile Damage
Widespread damage is a clear indicator that replacement is necessary. Multiple broken or cracked tiles, particularly if the crack spans a large area of the floor, can indicate an issue with the subfloor that needs to be addressed.
Loose tiles are also a concern, as they can be tripping hazards. They also allow moisture to collect under the tile, potentially contributing to additional damage over time. In some cases, multiple loose tiles are a sign of a structural problem.
Tile tenting or buckling is another sign of damage that can point to deeper issues. Of course, missing tiles must be replaced as well.
If only one tile is damaged, perhaps due to a heavy item falling on it and cracking it, you can likely get by with only replacing that specific tile. (This is part of the reason why we always recommend buying 10% more tile than you need–those extra tiles come in handy for repairs down the line!) However, when multiple tiles or multiple areas of the floor are affected, it’s usually best to remove and replace all of the flooring, as well as to address any problems with the subfloor.
Grout Problems
It’s recommended to replace your grout as needed, usually every eight to 16 years. Once your grout begins to look grimy, cracked, or moldy, or when it starts to crumble away, it must be replaced. This can be an opportunity to change out your tile altogether, but if the tile itself isn’t damaged, simply regrouting can refresh your entire floor.
It’s important to keep in mind, however, that grout problems left unmanaged can eventually damage the tile itself. Damaged grout may contribute to tile cracks and breakage over time. It can also let in moisture, potentially leading to mold and mildew growth, so it’s wise to replace your grout as soon as you notice any issues.
Aesthetic Preferences
Interior design preferences often shift over time. If a home renovation project is in your budget, getting new tile can truly transform your space. For a less expensive transformation, consider regrouting your tile (perhaps in a different color for a new look) and deep-cleaning your tile.
Tile Restoration
DIY or professional tile restoration can be a good choice if your tile is looking dull and dingy but doesn’t have any signs of major damage. In general, tile restoration involves cleaning and repairing your tile and grout, restoring it so that it looks and performs as good as new.
Often, a steam cleaner is used to thoroughly clean the tile’s surface and remove packed-in dirt, dust, and grime. Sometimes, chemical cleaners are used instead.
Next, cracks and chips are addressed, and grout is replaced if needed. The tile and grout may then be sealed.
The benefit of hiring a pro to restore your tile is that they have the tools, experience, and expertise to get the job done right the first time and within a reasonable timeframe. Choosing to DIY the process is absolutely possible but often takes longer, and you may need to rent various tools and explore resources to educate you on the process.
Find the Perfect Tile to Replace Your Flooring at Tilezz.com
At Tilezz.com, we have a wide selection of tile to choose from, with a variety of tile materials, shapes, sizes, colors, and patterns to suit every preference. Scroll through our full product range here, or visit our blog to find interior design inspiration and DIY installation guides. Don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest for even more Tilezz.com content!
Discount Code
Choosing tile to replace your old flooring is a big decision, and it can be challenging to pick between several flooring options without seeing how they look in your space–but we’re happy to make the process simpler! Just use code XJF6RNZY5BJJ to get 30% off when you purchase four or more samples.
Please note that this code does not apply to full-size tiles and can only be used with samples.