Replacing cracked ceramic tile. Making it easy.

                  This unique tool makes removing a cracked tile much easier than it used to be.

The blade is used for removing the grout, the thinset and can cut various materials with the wide variety of different blades to choose from.

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   First tape off the surrounding tiles. While I am removing the grout with the grout remover the surrounding tiles don't get damaged. Then using a steel putty knife, hold it against the good tiles to protect them from any damage while removing the grout.This is not totally neccessary, but if there is a small grout joint it will help protect the surrounding tile.
   
   
   

 

As you can see the blade has taken a beatting, so it is due for a new one. Notice the flat side of the blade, this helps when having to cut underneath a cabinet's toe kick or when removing the thinset against the good tile, The blade doesn't rotate, it vibrates, so you can set the blade in a variety of positions.

After you grind all of the grout from around the tile you want to remove, take a angle grinder and cut thru a corner of the tile about 2"to3" in. This gives you a small triangle piece which to remove.

Always remember to wear saftey goggles.

The picture below shows an angle grinder. These can be rented at a rental center for a few bucks. You might have to buy the blade but they come in handy for numerous projects.

Next take a 1"to2" chissell and pry the triangular piece out using the cracked tile for leverage. After that piece is out, chissell the rest of the tile out. Simple!

Now grab the Rockwell and remove the rest of the thinset.

 Have tools, will travel!