How To Repair Hairline Cracks In Ceramics Floor Tiles?
Hairline cracks in ceramic floor tile are common and can be a major nuisance when they’re left untreated. If you want to keep your tiles looking their best, there are a few ways to repair these small, annoying cracks.
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First, you can use epoxy to fill the crack and paint over it for a more seamless appearance. It’s a very quick and easy way to fix these tiny, annoying cracks.
Epoxy is a two-part glue that’s designed to bond stone and other porous materials. It’s also a great way to fix those smaller, hairline cracks that you can’t replace.
Mix equal amounts of the two parts of epoxy on a disposable lid or piece of cardboard and use a brush to apply it to the crack, allowing the epoxy to seep into the gap. Once you’ve filled the gap, smooth it out and allow it to dry completely.
Next, you’ll need to use a craft stick or scraper to remove excess epoxy that isn’t bonded to the tile. You’ll have to do this quickly so the epoxy doesn’t harden onto the surface of the tile. Once you’re done, let the crack dry completely before painting over it with a paint that matches the tile color.
Oil-based primer and paint are available at craft stores or specialty paint shops. They’re best suited for this type of repair because they aren’t easily removed with water.
Primer and paint are especially important for repairing hairline cracks, as they make the repair less noticeable. They also help the repair last longer by helping it blend in better with the rest of your flooring.
Often, the cause of hairline cracks in ceramic floor tile is impacted. This can be caused by heavy objects hitting the tile, such as kitchen appliances that are frequently dropped or doorways that open and close.
Another cause is uneven concrete (or a slab with a slight ridge or hump). If the underlying concrete is uneven, tiles placed over it can rock and eventually break.
You can avoid these problems by installing porcelain-based ceramic floor tile that is certified under the PCTA. This identifies the product as having met the highest standards for strength and durability, which makes it much more durable than cheaper tile that isn’t certified.
If you’re unsure about the tile’s certification, visit a PCTA-certified dealer and ask for advice. This will give you peace of mind, and it may even save you money down the road by preventing any costly repairs.
For example, if the cracked tile is located in your shower or bathroom, you might be able to fix it by sealing the gap and adding a thin layer of grout, which can help prevent moisture damage and improve the appearance of the area.
You can also use a urethane-based sealer to protect the repaired crack from further moisture damage. This will require reapplying every few years, but it’s worth the effort.