Calling all tilesetters

[Hawkmoon]

I need professional advice. I had to replace a shower valve in the master bathroom. The walls are plaster, not sheetrock, and the old valve was pretty tight in the plaster. I had to hammer it out. Vibration loosened about half a dozen tiles.

What's the best (recommended) way to reattach tiles that have fallen off the wall? My first idea was to use silicone sealant, but then I thought maybe it's better to use tile grout so all the materials are compatible.

Does anyone know for sure?

[stumbler]

Home depot has an adhesive / grout mixture in tubs that I've used on my ceramic tile floor. Color was slightly off, but it set up quick.

[theArmedRebel]

What you are looking for is "thin set" in the tile and grout section. It's an adhesive specifically for attaching tile. Then you grout the spaces between the tiles. Make sure everything is clean and dust/dirt/old adhesive residue has been removed from the wall and the tile. With a notched trowel (size of notch depends on the size of the trowel) spread the thin set on the back of the tile (called back buttering) center it in the space, give it a wiggle back and forth as you stick it to the wall. I am assuming that the fallen tiles are surrounded by tiles that are still in place. If not, apply the adhesive to the wall. Wait 24-48 hours and grout the tile using a float at a 45 degree angle to the wall and pushing the grout into the joints at a 45 degree angle.

When you go to the store, Home depot, Lowes or a smaller independent tile place (where you will likely get better advice and help) make sure you have a piece of the grout to match. It will never be perfect, but close.

For future repairs around tile: Score the grout and the tile before you try to remove anything! For the valve, get something like a 5 in 1 tool and break the connection between the valve and the grout/caulk. For tiles, a grout saw (they're small, with a textured "blade") or the 5 in 1 tool can be used to remove the grout. Also, score the tiles before trying to chisel them out. this will reduce the vibration between the tiles and reduce the chances that you'll have to reattach tiles when you're done.

Hope that helps.

Robert