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Tiles are an ideal choice of wall covering for kitchens and bathrooms, because they are water-resistant, durable, and also aesthetically pleasing. However, these rooms are usually heavily used and often damp environments that are subject to a lot of wear and tear. Even the best quality tiles can sometimes be in need of some TLC.
Here are some common reasons why your bathroom tiles might not be looking their best, and how to fix them.
One of the most common problems that can spoil the appearance of your tiles is a build-up of mould and mildew. Mould is a fungus that thrives in damp, warm environments so it is a particular problem in bathrooms. Ensuring that your bathroom is well-ventilated by opening the window, using an extractor fan and keeping the door open when not in use.
Mould growth in your home needs to be tackled, not just because it looks unsightly but also because it brings health risks. According to the NHS, black mould can cause or exacerbate respiratory problems and infections, allergies, and asthma, and it can also affect the immune system.
People with existing health problems and the very old and young or a weakened immune system need to be especially vigilant for adverse reactions to mould. It can release allergens and toxic substances that cause sneezing, runny nose, irritated eyes, and a skin rash.
If you catch mould and mildew in the early stages, it is possible to remove it yourself. If large amounts of black mould are already growing, then the problem is likely to be more severe because mould grows from within the walls. If your tiles look brownish and feel slimy to the touch, this could be a sign that mould is forming,
More widespread mould can cause tiles to crack or appear uneven, and you may notice that the bathroom smells constantly musty even when it is ventilated and cleaned.
When removing mould, you should protect yourself with rubber gloves, eye protection and a mask. You can buy commercial cleaning products for removing mould, or make your own with diluted white vinegar or a bleach solution decanted into a spray bottle.
Spray the affected area and leave it for 30 minutes, and then wipe away with a cloth or sponge. If there is also mould in the grout, you will need to use a stronger cleaning solution because it can be more stubborn. Use an old toothbrush dipped in the solution and scrub off the mould, rinsing off the residue at intervals.
If that is not effective, you may need to scrape away the grout and apply a fresh layer. Use a mould-resistant product and a sealant to prevent the problem returning. Keep up a regular cleaning routine to mitigate future damage.
Most tiles are made from durable materials, but occasionally they may crack due to heavy impacts, water damage, poor installation, or structural subsidence. The cracked tile should be repaired or replaced to prevent moisture infiltration and to remove the risk of the tile coming loose and falling off the wall.
If the crack is small, it may be possible to use a tile repair kit to fill in the cracks and polish the surface to achieve a smooth finish. However, you should check the wall for any underlying signs of damage, such as leaking pipes or rising damp before carrying out repairs.
If the tile is damaged beyond repair, score the grout around the tile and chisel it off the wall. Clean the area free of old adhesive and apply a new layer. Press the replacement tile in place and apply a new layer of grout around the edge.
Sometimes, tiles can come loose because the adhesive is old and ineffective, they have been poorly fitted in the first place, or they have been damaged by water. If a large number of tiles are loose, it could be a sign of water damage or structural movement, so this needs to be investigated.
If it is limited to just one or two tiles, remove them with a chisel and clean off the old adhesive. Apply new adhesive and press into place, then re-grout around the tile.
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