Tile can develop cracks for a variety of reasons. Cracked tile is unsightly and can lead to further damage if left untreated. Fortunately, there are steps you can take during installation and maintenance to help avoid cracked tiles.

Common Causes of Cracked Tiles

There are several common reasons tiles may crack:

Improper Installation

One of the most common causes of cracked tile is improper installation. Some key mistakes that can lead to cracking include:

• Uneven substrate – The subsurface beneath the tile needs to be smooth and level. Any dips, bumps, or uneven spots can lead to cracking from stress.
• Poor mortar coverage – Failure to fully embed tiles in mortar can cause cracks when weight is applied.
• Wrong grout lines – Grout lines that are too small lead to tile crowding and cracks.
• Poor corner work – Rushed or sloppy cuts on border and corner tiles causes stress points.
• No movement joints – Tiles need small gaps at regular intervals to allow for expansion and contraction of the surface.

Excess Moisture

Too much moisture reaching the tile or tiles installed in consistently wet areas can lead to absorption and cracking over time. Sources of problematic moisture include:

• Leaks from above like faulty plumbing or roof damage.
• Flooding or excessive water exposure from cleaning.
• Insufficient subsurface waterproofing.
• High humidity areas like bathrooms and basements.

Structural Movement

Tile installed over substrates subject to movement and settling is prone to cracked tiles. This includes:

• New concrete that shrinks as it fully cures.
• Wood subfloors that shift due to moisture changes.
• Upper level floors that settle over time.

Impact Damage

Cracked tiles can also occur from direct impact on the surface, such as:

• Dropped heavy or sharp objects.
• Furniture or appliance legs grinding into the tile.
• Children playing with toys on a hard tile floor.
• Pet claws scratching across the surface.
• High foot traffic areas subject to wear over time.

Extreme Temperatures

Large swings in temperature can lead to cracked tiles due to expansion and contraction. Issues arise when:

• Tile is subject to very hot temperatures like near fireplaces, stoves, or direct sunlight through windows.
• Outdoor tiles are exposed to freezing winter temperatures after absorbng moisture.
• Heated floors rapidly heat up a tile surface.

Tips to Avoid Cracked Tiles During Installation

Careful installation is key to preventing cracked tiles. Here are some best practices to follow:

Select the Right Tile

• Choose tiles rated for your application’s traffic and conditions. High hardness ratings resist impact.
• Check manufacturer instructions and only use tiles in approved locations. Some are not suitable for wet areas, freeze/thaw exposure, radiant heat, etc.
• Avoid thin or large format tiles in high impact areas as they chip and crack easier.
• In wet areas, use tiles with low absorption ratings.

Prepare the Substrate

• The subsurface must be structurally sound, level, and meet deflection standards.
• Concrete substrates should be fully cured and free of moisture issues which requires adequate vapor barrier and drying time.
• Wood substrates should be exterior-grade plywood or cement board, properly fastened and spaced.

Use a High Quality Setting Material

• Choose the appropriate mortar for the tile and application type. Some mortars offer more flexibility and adhesion.
• Check that the mortar has not expired and fully mix as per instructions.
• Apply an even layer using the recommended trowel size to achieve 100% coverage.

Mind the Details

• Carefully follow instructions and best practices for tile spacing, alignment, and grout line width.
• Use spacers between tiles to prevent crowding or uneven spacing.
• Make precise cuts, especially around corners, edges, niches, and borders. Avoid narrow slivers of tile.
• Install movement joints based on the tile size and floor span.

Allow Proper Curing

• Give mortar time to fully cure based on manufacturer directions before grouting or exposing tile to weight/traffic.
• Verify grout has cured per package instructions before regular use and cleaning.
• Wait at least 72 hours before wet testing installed tile in showers.

Helpful Tips to Prevent Cracked Tiles After Installation

Routine maintenance and care is equally important for keeping tiles crack-free. Here are some helpful post-installation tips:

Control Moisture Exposure

• Address any leaks quickly to prevent water damage behind tiles.
• Limit water exposure when cleaning and use a wet vacuum to remove all standing water.
• Run exhaust fans, use dehumidifiers, and improve ventilation in humid areas.
• Bring outdoor tiles to room temperature before pressure washing to avoid thermal shock cracks.

Handle with Care

• Place walk-off mats at entrances to trap dirt and grit that can abrade tile surfaces.
• Install felt floor protectors under furniture legs.
• Discourage use of hard plastic wheels, metal toy cars, or other objects that concentrate force.
• Remove shoes with cleats, spikes, exposed metal taps, or hard resin heels when inside.

Allow Expansion and Movement

• Do not box in tiles tightly between fixed walls, cabinets, floor vents, etc.
• Do not use caulk or grout to fill expansion spaces. Keep them clear.
• Outdoor tiles need wider grout joints and space for freeze/thaw movement.

Clean Effectively

• Sweep or vacuum regularly to prevent grit buildup that can grind and crack tile.
• Use pH neutral cleaners formulated for natural stone or ceramic/porcelain. Avoid harsh acidic or alkaline cleaners.
• Rinse thoroughly after cleaning and avoid leaving puddles of cleaning solution.

Seal and Protect Surfaces

• Apply manufacturer recommended sealants to help waterproof grout and reduce moisture penetration. Reapply periodically.
• Coat natural stone tiles with stone enhancers to protect against etching and absorption stains.
• Use floor finish coats and waxes to help shield tile surfaces from impact damage. Reapply as needed.

Check for Signs of Trouble

• Periodically inspect tile for cracks, loose or hollow sounding tiles, or grout issues indicating excess moisture below.
• Pay attention for tiles that look faded, powdery, or exhibit crazing cracks which indicate subsurface problems.
• Don’t ignore cracks or wait until they worsen. Address right away before more tiles are impacted.

How to Repair Cracked Tiles

In spite of best efforts, tiles can still crack. Here are some tips for repair:

Clean Well

• Remove all dirt, grease, wax and grime from tile surface and cracks.
• Use pressurized water or steam to dislodge debris from cracks.
• Let tile fully dry before applying any repair materials.

Assess Damage

• Look below tiles in surrounding area for unlevel floor, lack of mortar, or moisture signs. Address underlying problems first.
• Determine if the crack goes through entire tile or top layer only. Repair technique differs.
• Check if crack is actively spreading or just cosmetic. This affects repair approach.

Repair Hairline Crack

• Use grout sealing or repair caulks rated for cracks in tile and grout. Follow cure times.
• Work caulk fully into thin cracks with an old gift card or plastic spreader. Wipe excess.
• Use multiple thin coats allowing drying between until flush with tile.

Repair Larger Cracks or Broken Tiles

• Carefully lift or remove loose pieces and debris.
• Apply flexible tile adhesive rated for repairs over full crack and surrounding area.
• Embed repair mesh if needed for very large cracks and gaps.
• Allow curing before grouting and traffic.

Consider Professional Help

For widespread cracking or complex repairs around drains, niches, or fixtures, contacting a tile professional is advised. They can:

• Properly diagnose and fix underlying issues.
• Access materials and tools needed for large repairs.
• Match custom tiles and grout colors.
• Offer warranties backed by years of experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cracked Tiles

What are some early signs of a tile crack developing?

Look for tiles appearing powdery, faded in color, or showing crazing cracks. Tap tiles and listen for a hollow sound indicating debonded tile. Cracks may start as hairline fractures or in grout first.

What’s the best way to prevent cracked tiles around bathtubs and showers?

Proper waterproofing of substrates is key. Choose low porosity shower tiles and apply manufacturer approved sealants. Maintain caulk joints and reapply yearly. Limit water spray force and duration when cleaning.

Can you use sanded caulk or grout to repair a tile crack?

No, sanded caulk and grout can discolor, fall out, and crack further. Use an elastic, non-sanded caulk designed for tile repairs. Match color closely to surrounding grout.

Should underlayment be used beneath floor tiles?

In some cases yes. Cement board or decoupling membranes can help prevent cracked floor tiles by isolating them from subfloor movement and moisture. Consult flooring pros on best practices.

Why do some cracks reappear after repairing?

This usually indicates an underlying issue like substrate movement or improper installation. The cracks will continue forming until root cause is corrected. Further repairs will not hold long-term.

Conclusion

Cracked tiles are an inconvenient and unsightly problem but can be prevented. Careful installation, routine maintenance, and immediate repair of cracks is key. Addressing any underlying moisture issues or subfloor instability is also important to avoid repeat cracking. With proper tile selection and care, your tiles can stay beautiful and crack-free for years to come. Paying attention to the details and following best practices goes a long way when it comes to avoiding cracked tiles.

Why Tile Is Cracked and How to Avoid It

Tile develops cracks for many reasons, but they can be prevented with careful installation and maintenance. This article explores the common causes of cracked tiles and provides tips to avoid them both during and after installation.

What Makes Tiles Crack?

Tiles can crack due to:

Improper Installation

Issues like uneven substrates, poor mortar coverage, wrong grout lines, rushed corner cuts, and lack of movement joints stress tiles and cause cracking.

Moisture Exposure

Consistent moisture reaching the tile surface leads to absorption and cracking over time.

Structural Movement

Tiles installed over shifting or settling substrates often crack as the floor moves.

Impact Damage

Direct blows to the tile from heavy objects, furniture legs, pet claws, etc. will crack tiles.

Temperature Extremes

Large swings in temperatures cause expansion and contraction that can crack tiles.

Installation Tips to Avoid Cracks

Follow these best practices during tile installation:

• Select tiles suitable for the area’s use and conditions.
• Fully prepare, flatten, and stabilize the subsurface.
• Use a premium mortar and achieve 100% thinset coverage.
• Precisely cut and space tiles to avoid crowding or uneven alignment.
• Include movement joints based on project size.
• Allow mortar and grout to fully cure before use.

Maintenance Tips for Crack Prevention

Routinely care for tiles by:

• Controlling moisture exposure in baths, basements, and outdoors.
• Installing floor protectors under furniture legs.
• Using walk-off mats and sweeping regularly.
• Allowing space for expansion around tiles.
• Applying sealants and waxes to protect surfaces.
• Immediately addressing any visible cracks.

Fixing Cracked Tiles

To repair cracked tiles:

• Clean thoroughly and assess damage.
• Address any underlying floor issues first.
• Use flexible caulks and adhesives made for tiles.
• Consider hiring a pro for complex repairs.

Conclusion

With proper installation technique and routine maintenance, you can help prevent cracked tile. Address any cracks immediately before further damage occurs.

Why Tile Is Cracked and How to Avoid It

Cracked tile can be an eyesore, but there are ways to prevent it from occurring in your home. This article explores the common causes of cracked tiles and actionable tips to help avoid them during installation and in everyday use.

Top Causes of Cracked Tiles

Tiles can develop cracks for several reasons:

• Improper installation – Uneven substrates, insufficient mortar, missing expansion joints lead to cracking from stress.
• Moisture issues – Consistent moisture penetration causes deterioration and cracking over time.
• Structural settling – Tiles installed over shifting substrates like new concrete or upper floors are prone to cracking as the subfloor moves.
• Impact damage – Heavy impacts from dropped objects, grinding furniture legs, pets, toys, heels, etc. can crack tile.
• Temperature changes – Large swings in temperature causes expansion and contraction, resulting in cracks.

How to Avoid Cracked Tiles During Installation

Careful installation is key to preventing cracked tiles down the road:

• Prepare subsurface – Ensure substrates are structurally sound, level, and meet deflection limits before installing tile.
• Use quality setting materials – Choose the right mortar for the project and make sure it provides maximum adhesion and coverage.
• Follow layout guidelines – Use proper tile spacing, alignment, and grout line widths. Never allow tiles to crowd.
• Cut precisely – Make clean, accurate cuts to avoid weak points, especially around niches, edges, and borders.
• Install movement joints – Include expansion joints based on tile size and overall floor dimensions.
• Allow proper curing – Let mortar and grout fully cure before exposing tiles to traffic, cleaning, or moisture.

Helpful Maintenance Tips

Proper care after installation also prevents cracks:

• Manage moisture – Control leaks, humidity, and standing water from cleaning.
• Use furniture pads – Prevent grinding and impact damage from chair/table legs.
• Allow expansion – Do not box tiles in too tightly between fixed elements like walls or cabinets.
• Protect surfaces – Apply sealers and waxes to help waterproof and shield tiles.
• Handle gently – Avoid hard plastic wheels, cleats, metal taps, and heavy impacts from items being set down.
• Check for signs – Inspect routinely for early crack indications like crazing, fading, or a hollow tile sound.

Repairing Cracked Tiles

If cracks do occur, here are repair tips:

• Clean thoroughly – Remove all contaminants from crack and surrounding tiles.
• Assess damage – Determine if crack penetrates glaze only or entire tile.
• Use proper materials – Repair hairline cracks with flexible caulk designed for tiles. Use adhesive for larger cracks.
• Address underlying issues – Look for uneven floors, lack of mortar, or hidden moisture problems.
• Consider hiring a pro – For widespread cracking or complex shower repairs, consider contacting a tile professional.

Conclusion

With proper installation technique and routine care, you can help avoid cracked tiles in your home. Be sure to address any cracks quickly before they have a chance to spread.

Why Tile Is Cracked and How to Avoid It

Tile can develop unsightly cracks for a variety of reasons. Understanding what causes tile to crack and following best practices during installation is key to avoiding this frustrating issue in your home. Routine tile maintenance and immediate repair of any cracks that do occur will keep your tiles looking their best.

What Causes Cracked Tiles?

• Improper Installation – Problems like uneven substrates, inadequate mortar coverage, and lack of expansion joints put stress on tiles that leads to cracking.
• Moisture Issues – Excess moisture reaching the tile backing causes deterioration that eventually cracks tile.
• Structural Movement – Tiles installed on substrates subject to settling like new concrete or wood subfloors often crack over time.
• Impact Damage – Direct blows from heavy objects, furniture legs, heels, toys, pet claws, etc. will crack tile.
• Temperature Extremes – Large swings in temp causes expansion/contraction that can crack tile.

Installation Tips to Prevent Cracked Tiles

Careful installation is crucial for preventing cracked tiles:

• Prep Subsurface – Subfloor must be leveled, structurally sound, and meet deflection limits before installing tile.
• Use Quality Materials – Choose the right mortar and ensure proper trowel coverage without voids.
• Follow Layout Guidelines – Use spacers to avoid tile crowding. Include correct grout line widths and movement joints.
• Make Precise Cuts – Sloppy cuts create weak points and stress. Use wet saws for detailed cuts and edges.
• Allow Proper Curing Time – Let mortar and grout fully cure before exposing tile to traffic, water, or cleaning.

Helpful Maintenance Tips

Proper care and maintenance also prevents tile cracks:

• Monitor for leaks and high humidity. Allow tiles to dry fully between cleanings.
• Install floor protectors under furniture legs to prevent impact fractures.
• Sweep regularly and use walk-off mats to minimize gritty abrasion.
• Apply penetrating sealers to grout and porous tiles to reduce moisture absorption.
• Do not box-in tiles too tightly between fixed objects. Leave room for expansion.
• Immediately repair any hairline cracks before they spread using flexible caulks.

Repairing Cracked Tiles

To properly fix cracked tiles:

• Clean thoroughly and assess extent of damage before repairing.
• Use caulks and adhesives formulated specifically for tile repairs.
• Look for