How to fix lifted tiles and missing grout?

louy

Hi there, years ago (14+) my Dad retiled on top of existing tiles in my bathroom.  There are now two tiles that have lifted - i actually pulled them off completing this morning.  here i have lifted the tiles, the floor seems water tight - the water level in the recess hasn't moved in several hours.  There is discolouration - mould as I noticed this issue a couple of months ago. I also have some missing grout in patches.  I am after advice on how to prepare and re-stick the tiles, remove existing grout (where patches of it are missing) re-grout and whatever other steps remain.  many thanks for the tips, Lou

EricL

Hello @louy 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about your bathroom floor tiles.

My first suggestion is to try and remove the old tile adhesive that is stuck on the surface of the old tile floor. I suggest using a stiff steel paint scrapper to see if the old adhesive will come off. Please note that you must be very careful not to damage or crack the old floor tile. Aside from the adhesive of the floor, I also suggest trying to removing the adhesive on the back of the tiles using the same tool I suggested earlier. Your goal is to get the floor and tile as clean as possible so that when you put the new adhesive on, it will stick on properly. 

To remove the old silicone, I suggest using a Trojan Safety Scraper With 5 Blades. As for the old grout on the tile, I suggest using QEP Professional Grout Saw. Please do not use excessive force when using the grout tool as your hand might slip and accidentally damage the surface of the tile.

Once the area is totally clean you can use Exit Mould 500mL Mould & Stain Cleaner Trigger Spray to clean the area and remove any mould spores that may be left behind. Make sure that the area is totally dry before applying the new tile adhesive. I suggest using Dunlop 310ml Tile-All Plus Premixed Tile Adhesive. It is an excellent adhesive that can even be used underwater and will work even if there is a high amount of moisture in the area. I recommend using the Dunlop 800g Ready-To-Go Coloured Grout - White to fill up the tile gap.

Here is a handy step-by-step guide: How To Lay Floor Tiles

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric