Floor Tile Repair and Replacement
Cracked, loose, or broken floor tiles are both a tripping hazard and an entry point for moisture into the subfloor. New Leaf removes damaged tiles cleanly, checks the subfloor condition, and sets replacement tile to match the surrounding floor.
Signs You Need Floor Tile Repair and Replacement
- One or more tiles that are visibly cracked or chipped
- Tiles that rock, shift, or click when walked on due to failed mortar adhesion
- Grout lines that are cracked, missing, or show water staining beneath them
- A hollow sound when tiles are tapped, indicating the bond has failed
- Subfloor damage or soft spots visible at the edges of a broken tile
- Tile chips or fragments that have broken off and left an exposed edge
Typical Cost Range
$500 - $800 (spot repair) | $900 - $3,500 (section/full room)
Based on tile type, square footage, and subfloor condition
What if the replacement tile does not exactly match the existing tile?
If matching tile is not available, we discuss options including sourcing from a specialty supplier, pulling tile from a less visible area, or choosing a complementary tile for the repair zone. We present options before proceeding so you can decide what works best for your floor.
Do you check the subfloor before setting new tile?
Yes. After removing the damaged tile, we inspect the subfloor for moisture damage, rot, or deflection. If the subfloor is compromised, we address it before setting new tile. Installing over a damaged subfloor causes the same failure to recur.
How long before you can walk on repaired floor tile?
Mortar needs approximately 24 hours to cure before light foot traffic. Grout typically requires 24 to 72 hours depending on the product. We let you know the specific cure time for the materials used on your project.
Shower and Wall Tile Repair
Failed shower tile or wall tile is more than an aesthetic problem, it allows moisture to penetrate behind the surface and damage the wall structure underneath. New Leaf repairs loose, cracked, and failed shower tile and addresses any waterproofing concerns uncovered during the process.
Signs You Need Shower and Wall Tile Repair
- Tiles in a shower or wet area that are loose, cracked, or have fallen off the wall
- Grout that is cracking, missing, or discolored in the shower surround
- Caulk lines at the tub or shower base that have opened up or are moldy
- Soft or spongy drywall behind a tile area indicating water has penetrated the wall
- Staining on the ceiling or wall adjacent to the shower from ongoing leaks
- Tiles that were never properly waterproofed during original installation and are showing moisture damage
Typical Cost Range
$500 - $700 (spot repair) | $900 - $3,000 (full surround retile)
Depends on tile size, pattern, waterproofing, and access
How do you waterproof a shower tile repair?
We use a waterproof membrane or board backer in wet areas to ensure the wall substrate is protected before tile is set. Silicone caulk is used at all inside corners and the tub or pan connection rather than grout, which cracks and allows water infiltration over time.
Can you retile a shower in sections, or does the whole surround need to be redone?
Section retiling is possible when the failure is localized and matching tile is available. When water has damaged the wall board behind a larger area or when the existing tile cannot be matched, a full surround retile is the more practical approach and we explain the tradeoffs during the estimate.
How long does a shower tile repair take?
A spot repair can typically be completed in one day with a cure period before use. A full surround retile typically takes two to three days for demo, prep, setting, and grouting, plus cure time before the shower can be used again.
Grout Repair and Regrouting
Deteriorated grout is one of the most common tile issues in older Cincinnati homes. Cracked or missing grout allows water into the subfloor or wall, stains the surrounding tile, and makes surfaces difficult to clean. New Leaf removes failed grout and replaces it with a properly matched and sealed finish.
Signs You Need Grout Repair and Regrouting
- Grout lines that are cracked, crumbling, or pulling away from the tile edges
- Missing grout in sections that have become exposed substrate
- Grout that is heavily stained and does not clean up with standard products
- Dark or discolored grout in a wet area that may indicate mold or mildew penetration
- Caulk at corners or the tub line that has separated, shrunk, or is visibly moldy
- Grout in a high-traffic floor area that has worn down and is no longer flush with the tile face
Typical Cost Range
$500 - $800 (targeted regrout) | $500 - $1,500 (full regrout)
Based on square footage and grout joint size
Can grout be repaired without removing the tile?
Yes. We remove old grout with an oscillating tool or grout saw and replace it without disturbing the tile. This approach works well when the tile is in good condition and the grout joint is wide enough to clean out properly.
Should grout be sealed after regrouting?
Sealing is recommended for cement-based grouts in floor and shower applications. Sealer reduces staining and moisture absorption, extending the life of the grout significantly. We apply sealer after the grout has cured fully as part of the project.
What is the difference between grout and caulk, and when should each be used?
Grout is used in field joints between tiles on flat surfaces. Caulk is used at inside corners, changes in plane, and the joint between tile and a tub or shower pan. These joints flex and grout will crack there over time. Using the correct material in the right location prevents recurring failures.
Quality Assurance
All of our work comes with a six-month warranty. If a defect arises from our work, we will repair it at no cost to you.
Fully Insured
We carry liability insurance and workers' compensation for your peace of mind.
Family Based
Family is important to us, and we respect your property as if it were our own.