Cracked tiles on floors and walls are a problem, but identifying the cause is the first step to fixing it.
Sometimes, a single sharp blow to a tile can result in a crack. Keep heavy items cushioned in the kitchen to avoid cracks.
Did a heavy object cause the crack?
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Most tiles meet the minimum standards for breaking strength, but heavy objects like refrigerators can still cause damage if they're dropped.
Did heavy loads cause the tile to crack?
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Control joints are pre-planned cracks, so it's not a good idea to install tile over them.
Was the tile installed over a control joint in concrete?
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To avoid tile cracking, make sure the joist spacing conforms to the International Residential Code.
Did the tile crack because the joists were spaced too far apart?
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If the tile cracks are long and continuous, the concrete below may have cracked.
Has the concrete substrate beneath the tile cracked over time?
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The solution to concrete cracks is to install a crack isolation membrane before installing the tile again. This will allow the tile to move separately from the concrete.
solution to concrete cracks
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Don't let cracked tiles bring you down. Identifying the cause is the first step to fixing it. Keep your tiles looking good as new.