3 common causes of cracked grout 1.
Floor tile grout cracking problems.
Grout cracks are the most common problem.
Cracks isolated to one tile often result from impact damage.
Grout hugs the edges of floor tiles and sometimes seamlessly blends with the tiles exposed.
In addition the moisture will cause other sections of tiles to come loose and the grout to crack.
For a larger more visible area of cracked tile contact a tile contractor for expert help.
Too much water or polymer additive in the grout mix is a common problem.
For those that are noticing the grout in their floor tile is breaking up it can be very frustrating especially if the tiling was done recently.
Project step by step 4 remove the old grout.
You don t want to blindly guess or assume you know what the problem is but here are some things to consider.
Cracks along grout lines.
Grout the mortar that fills in the gaps between tiles can last for decades when mixed and applied properly.
While the tile moves the grout does not and this is where the cracking of the grout can occur.
Furthermore the longer moisture remains present under the tiles it can also damage subflooring and sub walls and lead to bigger and costlier repairs later.
Remove all the loose and cracked grout with a grout saw or dremel tool and completely vacuum out.
Too much water or polymer additive.
House settlement or improper installation can cause small grout cracks.
If that pressure causes the underlayment to flex then tile and grout flooring which is not designed to be flexible weakens.
Or your pogo stick.
Wipe any extra off the tile with a wet sponge.
With your finger push the caulking into the crack.
If there s not enough thinset coverage this can mean that the tile can move.
Eventually you will start to notice problems with mold and mildew on the tiles and grout.
Cracked grout is frequently the result of weak grout structure.
The grout is doing its job but there s too much movement from the tile itself.
Minor cracks can be fixed by running a 1 4 inch wide bead of latex caulk across the entire crack.
Most of it as with most tile installation problems is due to improper installation.
However it s possible for it to crack crumble or otherwise break up after being installed.
And there could be a host of other less apparent or less common problems.
However if your grout is cracking it is probably for one of the reasons above.
If weak underlayment is the diagnosis there may be two easy and inexpensive ways to resolve some cracking problems.
At most tile specialty shops you can get or order sanded caulk most floor grouts are sanded that.
Does a crack in a tile mean there is a foundation problem.
Ceramic and porcelain tiles are.
Sprinkle dry grout onto the caulked area.
