Why Do Tiles Become Loose?

Tiles should be firmly bonded to the surface, but when they’re not, you may notice:
🚨 Tiles moving or lifting when stepped on.
🚨 Cracks in the grout or gaps appearing.
🚨 A hollow sound when tapping on the tile.

Common Causes of Loose Tiles

1️⃣ Poor Adhesion (Not Enough or Wrong Adhesive Used)

❌ Some installers use too little adhesive or the wrong type of adhesive for the job.
💡 Solution: Use a cement-based flexible adhesive for most tiling jobs and ensure full tile coverage when applying it.

2️⃣ No Surface Preparation

❌ If the substrate (surface) is dusty, damp, or uneven, tiles won’t bond properly.
💡 Solution: Clean, level, and prime surfaces before tiling to improve adhesion.

3️⃣ Not Removing Laitance on Anhydrite Screeds

❌ Anhydrite screeds develop a weak, dusty layer (laitance) that prevents adhesive from bonding.
💡 Solution: Mechanically grind/sand the surface before tiling.

4️⃣ Tiles Not Fully Bed Down (Spot Bonding Method Used)

❌ Some tilers apply blobs of adhesive ("dot and dab"), instead of spreading it evenly. This creates air pockets under the tile, making it weak.
💡 Solution: Use the proper trowel size to apply adhesive evenly and press tiles down firmly.

5️⃣ No Expansion Joints (Tiles Cracking Over Time)

❌ Tiled floors and walls expand and contract with temperature changes. Without expansion joints, tiles will crack, lift, or come loose.
💡 Solution: Install movement joints every 3-4 meters and at doorway transitions.

6️⃣ Tiling Over Wet or Damp Surfaces

❌ If a screed or floor isn’t fully dry, moisture can cause adhesive failure, leading to loose tiles.
💡 Solution: Use a moisture meter and wait for proper drying times before tiling.

7️⃣ No Decoupling Mat Over Problematic Subfloors

❌ Wooden floors, cracked screeds, or underfloor heating move and flex. Without a decoupling mat, tiles will eventually crack.
💡 Solution: Use a DITRA mat or BAL Flexbone to absorb movement and prevent tile cracking.

How to Fix Loose Tiles & Poor Tiling Installations

1️⃣ Can I Fix a Loose Tile Myself?

If only one or two tiles are loose, you can try:
✔ Carefully removing the tile without breaking it.
✔ Cleaning the back of the tile & surface.
✔ Applying fresh adhesive and re-bedding the tile.
✔ Re-grouting once set.

2️⃣ When Do I Need a Professional Tiler?

If multiple tiles are loose, or you notice uneven flooring, cracked tiles, or water damage, it’s best to call in a professional.

🚨 Common Signs You Need a Retiling Job:
❌ More than 3-4 loose tiles.
❌ Hollow sounds across a large area.
❌ Cracked grout lines or tiles shifting.
❌ Water damage from improperly sealed tiles.

At Coventry Tiling, we specialize in retiling projects, fixing poor installations, and preventing costly repairs in the future.

How to Avoid Poor Tiling Installations

💡 Always Hire a Professional Tiler! Many tiling failures happen because of bad workmanship. A professional will:
✅ Prepare surfaces correctly – Cleaning, priming & leveling as needed.
✅ Use the right adhesive & technique – No cutting corners with dot & dab methods!
✅ Ensure proper tile spacing & expansion joints – Preventing cracks & movement issues.
✅ Check for moisture & substrate issues – Avoiding long-term failure.
✅ Apply professional grouting & sealing – Keeping the finish durable & water-resistant.

Why Choose Coventry Tiling for Professional Tiling Installations?

At Coventry Tiling, we don’t just install tiles – we ensure a flawless, long-lasting finish with proper preparation and expert techniques.

Why Work With Us?

✅ 20+ Years Experience – No rushed or cut-corner jobs.
✅ Floor & Wall Tiling Experts – Bathrooms, kitchens, wet rooms & more.
✅ Repairs & Retiling Specialists – Fixing poor installations professionally.
✅ Underfloor Heating – Using decoupling mats to prevent cracking.
✅ Fast & Clean Service – Quality work, no mess, no stress!

Get a Free Quote Today!

If you’re dealing with loose tiles or a poor tiling installation, don’t wait for more damage! Contact Coventry Tiling today for a professional retiling service and expert installation.

Serving Coventry, Warwickshire, and surrounding areas.