How to Find Old Tiles

Broken or cracked tiles can ruin a beautiful historic tiled floor. Many homeowners love the look and feel of a tiled floor in their bathroom, laundry, or kitchen. Replacing the broken and cracked tiles will rejuvenate the tiled floor. Replacing a tile is a fairly simple task. On the other hand, learning how to find old tiles can be difficult. Homeowners who are willing to put in time and effort may find what they are looking for.

• 1

  Check the home for extra tiles. Many homeowners keep extra tiles around just in case a floor tile gets damaged. Look under sinks, in the basement, and in the garage.

• 2

  Remove the broken tile pieces from the floor. Remove the grout from around the broken tile with a utility knife. Slide a putty knife beneath the cracked tile and remove it.

• 3

  Bring your old cracked tile to demolition sales. This will help you to match the tile with other old tiles at a demolition site. Simply asking may help you to pick up old tiles for free. Most contractors don't mind if you take away the old tiles.

• 4

  Check websites such as Craigslist or eBay for the tiles. Many homeowners will sell or give away old building supplies as they remodel.

• 5

  Call the manufacturer of the tile. Some manufacturers may carry stock from old tiles. If they do not carry stock they may be able to direct you to someone who does carry the old tiles.

• 6

  Bring the old cracked tile to a tile store. This may help you to match the color and sheen of the old tile with a new tile that is similar.

• 7

  Have a tile made to order. Some tile shops can re-create old tiles. Check local tile shops in your area to see if they offer this service. If you find a shop in your area that offers this service, simply bring in the broken tile pieces from the floor. This is a good option for homeowners who cannot find anything that closely resembles their old tiles. Although this is a more expensive option, it may be less expensive than completely replacing the old tile floor.