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Our house is over 30 years old. Over the last 10-15 years there has been some cracking/breakage of the floor tiles in our laundry adjacent to the washing machine. Although the floor under the washing machine has extra joists, the front loader machine does vibrate at times which has likely contributed to the tile issue. Also the glue used between the tiles and the cement sheet underlay has failed (at least under the tiles I have removed and under adjacent cracked tiles) and no longer bonding the tiles to the underlay.
Refer the attached photos of the damage.
I have enough spare tiles to replace those that are cracked and broken. As can be seen from the photos the cement sheet below the cracked tiles area has cracked also. I am proposing to remove the broken tiles, repair the cement sheet, and lay the spare tiles. Hopefully I can get some further life out of the tile floor. I would prefer to not have to replace the whole floor.
I am a bit unsure how I go about this:
My questions are:
- I presume I should fix the cracked cement sheet to the particle board flooring? What do I use for this?
- Do I attempt to remove the old dried and uneven failed tile cement? If so what do I use?
- I presume once I have fixed down the cement sheet, I should level the cement sheet in the area I will be re-tiling? If so what do I use as a filling agent for this?
- I presume that once I have a firm and level area for re-tiling I follow normal tiling practice with respect to cement and grout?
- Are there anything else I should consider?
Hello @PeterEllis49
Looking at the photo you posted, it appears that two more tiles need to be removed and replaced. Please note that the cement sheet is a very big sheet approximately 2400 x 1200, and if removed will mean that you'll need to remove the tiles that are on that sheet. I propose patching the crack instead if the damage is not too severe. I suggest using Selleys 415g Brick And Concrete Sealant to fill the cracks on the cement sheet. You can flatten the silicone using a Pro Renovator 50mm Plastic Scraper. Just make sure that the crack is free of dust and debris before applying the silicone.
To remove the old tile adhesive, I recommend using a Trojan 6 In1 Multi Paint Scraper, this tool should be strong enough to dislodge the old adhesive from the surface of the cement sheet. You can then tile the surface using normal tiling methods. My best advice is to invest in a Craftright Caravan Accessory - Bubble Level and placing it in the centre of the washing machine so that you can level it perfectly. I also recommend placing Jack 100 x 15mm Rubber Anti Vibration Squares on each foot to absorb any vibration the machine may give off.
My only other recommendation is to make sure that the feet are locked in place, failing to lock them will offset the balance and you'll find your washing machine vibrating and off centre once again.
If you need further assistance, please let us know.
Eric
