Empty drum, cracking, arching tile problem
Have you ever noticed cracks or loose tiles in your home? It can be frustrating and even dangerous if they fall. In this article, we’ve gathered expert insights on the common causes of tile failure and how to prevent or fix them.
Phenomenon 1: Hollow Sounds Under Tiles
One of the most common issues is a hollow sound when tapping the tiles with a small hammer. A dull sound usually means the tile is properly adhered, while a crisp sound suggests an air gap (hollow drum). According to Beijing’s building regulations, no more than 5% of the total area should have this issue.
Causes: - Insufficient or excessive cement mortar during installation. - Poorly mixed or improperly proportioned mortar, leading to weak adhesion. - Improper tiling technique, such as not compacting the tiles well. - Environmental factors like temperature changes can worsen the problem. - In some cases, walls made with keels and cement boards are prone to deformation, causing tiles to loosen over time.
Solution: If only a few tiles are affected, it might be acceptable. However, if more than two corners or multiple areas are hollow, the tiles should be removed and re-laid. If over 1/3 of the area is affected, a full reinstallation is necessary. Before replacing, always check for hidden water or electrical lines in the area.
Phenomenon 2: Tile Buckling or Falling Off
This often happens due to poor construction practices, such as incorrect cement-sand ratios, improper mixing, or skipping the resting period after mixing. Other reasons include poor base preparation, insufficient water absorption by the tiles, and lack of compaction during installation.
Treatment: If two or more issues occur together, the tiles may fall off. The best solution is to use tile adhesive to reattach them. Proper base preparation and correct mixing techniques are key to preventing future problems.
Phenomenon 3: Cracked Tiles
Surface Cracks: These can be caused by wall settlement, especially in new buildings. If several tiles show regular or irregular cracks, it may indicate underlying structural issues. Experts recommend checking the base layer for serious damage, which could affect the home's safety.
Tile Surface Cracks: Sometimes, cracks are due to poor-quality tiles, but this is rare. More commonly, it’s due to improper pre-soaking of the tiles before installation or inadequate waterproofing of the base layer.
Treatment: If the cracks don’t cause hollowing or falling, they’re mostly an aesthetic issue. However, if the cracks are severe, replacement may be necessary.
Additional Questions and Answers
What is “tile sizzling� Some homeowners report that tiles make strange sounds, like peeling before falling. This is a warning sign. If you hear unusual noises, tap the tiles and consult a professional early to avoid accidents.
Will tiles collapse and fall off? This often happens when there are not enough expansion joints, especially near vents or ducts. To prevent this, experts suggest using lightweight bricks at these locations. You can also fill gaps with grout to reduce the risk temporarily.
Is the door frame tile hollow? If you see exposed cement at the door frame, it may indicate a problem. The cement layer should match the tile level. If it’s cracked, the tiles could become loose over time. Experts recommend checking the condition and replacing if needed.
Can cabinet tiles be replaced? Tiles behind cabinets are less likely to fall, but those above countertops are at higher risk. If the empty drum rate exceeds standards, they may not hold up under weight. Given the high moisture and temperature changes in kitchens, it’s safer to re-tile these areas.
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Ningbo Wenhan Fluid Equipments Co., Ltd. , https://www.wenhanvalves.com