Subway tile is a popular flooring choice because it’s durable, easy to clean, and comes in various colors and styles. However, if your tile gets scratched, it can be frustrating trying to fix them. But with the right tools and techniques, you can get your tile looking good as new in no time! In this blog post, we’ll show you how to fix scratches subway tile using a few simple steps. Read on for more information.
Summary: Subway tile can be easily scratched, but luckily it’s still fixable. Start by sealing the tile with a tile sealer and mild cleaner. Then use a furniture marker or nail polish. For deeper scratches, use a wax crayon, toothpaste, baking soda or WD-40. If the scratch is still visible, use sandpaper to remove it completely.
What Causes Scratches on Subway Tile?
There are a few different things that can cause scratches on your subway tile. The most common culprit is dirt or debris that’s been ground into the tile. This can happen if you’re walking on the tile with dirty shoes or if you’re cleaning the tile with a brush that’s too harsh. Another common cause of scratches is from moving furniture or appliances around. Finally, you can easily scratch the tile with heavy objects if you’re not careful.
Additionally, pets can also cause scratches on your tile if they’re not trained properly. For example, if you have a cat or dog that likes to scratch the floor, they can easily damage your tile. The other main cause of scratches is improper cleaning techniques. If you’re using a harsh cleaner on your tile or if you’re scrubbing too hard, you can easily scratch the tile. Lastly, if you drop something heavy on your tile, it can cause a scratch.
Why Do Subway Tile Scratches Need to Be Repaired?
Scratches on your subway tile can be unsightly and make your floors look dirty. Additionally, if the scratches are deep enough, they can collect dirt and debris, which can be difficult to clean. If you don’t repair the scratches, they will only get worse over time. Another reason to repair scratches is that they can cause the tile to become weaker and more susceptible to breaking.
If you have a lot of scratches, it’s important to fix them as soon as possible. Finally, fixing scratches on your tile can help increase its value if you’re selling your home.
Some Easy Ways How to Fix Scratches Subway Tile
1. Use a Tile Sealer
If your tile is scratched, the first thing you should do is apply a tile sealer. This will protect the tile from further damage and make it easier to clean. Tile sealers come in both clear and tinted varieties, so you can choose the one that best matches your tile. To apply the sealer, clean the tile with mild soap and water. Then, apply the sealer with a brush or roller and let it dry for 24 hours. You can try another method if the scratch is still visible after the sealer has dried.
2. Use a Mild Cleaner
If the scratch is not deep, you may be able to clean it with a mild cleaner. This will also help to remove any dirt or debris that may be in the scratch. Be sure to test the cleaner on a small area first to ensure it does not damage the tile. First, clean the area around the scratch with a damp cloth. Then, apply the cleaner to a soft cloth and rub it into the scratch in a circular motion. Next, rinse the area with clean water and dry it with a soft cloth. If the scratch is still visible, you may need to try another method.
3. Use a Furniture Marker
If the scratch is not too deep, you may be able to cover it up with a furniture marker. This method is best for small scratches. First, clean the area around the scratch with a mild cleaner. Next, find a furniture marker that closely matches the color of your tile. Gently color over the scratch with the marker. Allow the marker to dry completely before using the area.
Try not to touch the area until it is dry to avoid smudging the marker. Avoid using a dark furniture marker on light tile or vice versa, as this will make the scratch more noticeable.
4. Use Nail Polish
If the scratch is not too deep, you may be able to cover it up with nail polish. This method is best suited for small scratches. First, clean the area around the scratch with rubbing alcohol. Next, apply clear nail polish to the scratch. Allow the nail polish to dry completely before using the tile. You can try applying colored nail polish if the scratch is still visible.
Try to match the color of the nail polish to the tile as closely as possible. If the scratch is still visible, you can try applying a second coat of nail polish. Please avoid using this method on large scratches, as the nail polish may not be able to cover them completely.
5. Use a Wax Crayon
If the scratch is not too deep, you may be able to cover it up with a wax crayon. This method works best if the tile is glazed. First, find a crayon that is the same color as the tile. If you can’t find an exact match, choose one that is close. Then, rub the crayon over the scratch until it is filled in. The wax will help to seal the scratch and protect the tile from further damage. If the crayon doesn’t cover the scratch completely, you can try layering multiple colors until it is camouflaged.
6. Use Toothpaste
If the scratch is not too deep, you may be able to cover it up with toothpaste. Toothpaste can act as a filler and help to camouflage the scratch. Apply a small amount of toothpaste to the scratch with a cotton swab. Gently rub the toothpaste into the scratch in a circular motion. Allow the toothpaste to dry completely before wiping it away with a soft cloth.
You may need to apply multiple toothpaste coats to cover the scratch completely. Try not to use toothpaste with abrasives, as this can damage the tile further. Avoid using toothpaste that is colored, as this can leave a stain on the tile.
7. Use Baking Soda
If the scratch is not too deep, you may be able to cover it up with baking soda. Baking soda can act as a filler and help to camouflage the scratch. To use this method, clean the tile and then make a paste out of baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the scratch with a finger or cotton swab, then wipe away the excess. Let the paste dry, and then see if the scratch is still visible. If it is, you may need to try another method. Avoid using this method if the tile is sealed, as it could damage the sealant.
8. Use Wd-40
If the scratch is not too deep, you may be able to cover it up with WD-40. This method works best on ceramic tiles. First, clean the area around the scratch with soapy water. Next, apply WD-40 to a cotton ball and rub it into the scratch in a circular motion. Finally, wipe away any excess WD-40 with a clean cloth. If the scratch is still visible, you may need to try another method. Avoid using WD-40 on natural stone tiles, as it may damage the surface.
9. Use Sandpaper
If the scratch is not too deep, you may be able to cover it up with sandpaper. This method works best on ceramic tiles. First, clean the tile with soapy water and a sponge. Dry it off, then apply a piece of fine-grit sandpaper to the scratch. Rub the sandpaper back and forth until the scratch is no longer visible. Wipe away any dust with a damp cloth, then dry the tile completely.
You may need to use finer grit sandpaper if the scratch is still visible. Avoid using sandpaper on glass tiles, as this can damage the surface.
10. Hire a Professional
If the scratch is too deep or you can’t seem to cover it up, you may need to hire a professional. A professional can buff out the scratch or replace the tile altogether. This is usually the best option for deep or severe scratches. Try to find a professional who specializes in tile repair. If you’re unsure how to find a professional, you can ask your local hardware store for recommendations.
Tips and Warnings on How to Fix Scratches Subway Tile
Tips:
- Use a mild abrasive. Abrasive materials like sandpaper can quickly remove the glaze from your tile, so it’s important to use a very mild abrasive. We recommend using something like steel wool or a soft cloth.
- Test the area first. Before you start scrubbing at the scratch, it’s always a good idea to test the area first. This will help you avoid damaging the surrounding tiles.
- Apply pressure evenly. When you’re ready to start scrubbing, be sure to apply pressure evenly so that you don’t damage the tile. Scrubbing too hard in one spot can cause the glaze to come off in that area.
- Rinse the area afterward. Once you’ve finished scrubbing, be sure to rinse the area with clean water. This will help remove any residue that might be left behind.
Warnings:
- Don’t use harsh chemicals. Harsh chemicals can damage your tile and make the scratches worse.
- Don’t use a power washer. Power washers can also damage your tile and make the scratches worse.
- Be careful not to damage the surrounding tiles. When scrubbing at the scratch, be careful not to apply too much pressure in one spot. This could damage the surrounding tiles.
Conclusion
So there you have it! Now you know how to fix scratches subway tile. Follow the tips and warnings above to avoid damaging your tile. With a little time and effort, you should be able to fix the scratch and make your tile look good as new! Thanks for reading.