7 Common Tile Installation Issues and How to Solve Them

Installing tile can transform a room from dull to dazzling, whether it’s in the kitchen, bathroom, or even a hallway. Tiles offer durability, style, and easy maintenance—but only if they’re installed correctly. Unfortunately, even seasoned DIYers and sometimes professionals can run into issues. The good news? Most common tile installation problems have clear solutions. This article dives into seven of the most frequent problems and offers simple, actionable advice on how to solve each one.

Uneven Tile Surfaces

One of the most frustrating tile installation issues is an uneven surface. You lay down your tiles, step back to admire your work—and notice that some are sitting higher or lower than others. This issue is not only unsightly, but it can also be a tripping hazard and make cleaning a nightmare.

What causes it

• Uneven subfloor
• Using too much or too little adhesive
• Tiles shifting during drying
• Lack of proper leveling tools during installation

How to solve it

• Always prep your subfloor. Make sure it’s level and clean before laying down any tiles.
• Use a leveling compound if needed to even out dips and bumps.
• Invest in tile leveling systems. These systems ensure each tile is flush with the next during installation.
• Apply adhesive evenly, and avoid “dotting” or “spot bonding,” which creates hollow spots and height differences.

Cracked Tiles

Cracks in tiles can appear days, weeks, or even months after installation, and they’re a common cause of disappointment for homeowners. A cracked tile can ruin the entire look of a room and may require replacement to fix.

What causes it

• Subfloor movement or instability
• Improper adhesive use
• Dropping heavy objects
• Installing over expansion joints without proper gaps

How to solve it

• Always install tile on a firm, stable subfloor. If it flexes, tiles will crack.
• Use the correct adhesive for the tile type and application.
• Allow for expansion by leaving space between the tiles and wall edges.
• If a tile cracks, carefully remove it and replace it with a new one using fresh adhesive and grout.

Loose Tiles

A tile that feels loose or moves slightly underfoot is a clear sign something went wrong during the installation process. Not only is it annoying, but it can also lead to future damage.

What causes it

• Inadequate adhesive coverage
• Adhesive dried before tile placement
• Dust or debris on the subfloor or tile back
• Subfloor movement

How to solve it

• Ensure full adhesive coverage when placing tiles. The back of the tile should be fully coated—not just dabs here and there.
• Work in small sections so the adhesive doesn’t dry before you lay the tile.
• Clean tiles and subfloors thoroughly before applying adhesive.
• If a tile is already loose, lift it, clean it, reapply adhesive, and reset it firmly.

Grout Problems

Grout may seem like a minor detail, but poor grout work can quickly become a major issue. Cracking, crumbling, or discolored grout can ruin the finish of your tile work.

What causes it

• Using too much water during mixing or cleaning
• Not allowing proper curing time
• Applying grout too soon or too late
• Movement in the tiles or substrate

How to solve it

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when mixing grout. Use clean water and avoid over-dilution.
• Allow the grout to cure for the recommended time. Don’t rush this step.
• Use grout sealer after curing to protect from stains and moisture.
• If grout cracks or crumbles, remove the damaged portion and reapply fresh grout

Lippage (Tiles Not Lying Flat)

Lippage occurs when adjacent tiles are not level with each other. Even if the floor is technically even, one tile edge might stick up higher than its neighbor, creating a visible and tactile unevenness.

What causes it

• Warped tiles
• Uneven adhesive thickness
• Rushed installation without a leveling system
• Subfloor imperfections

How to solve it

• Inspect tiles before installing. Some large-format tiles are prone to warping and should be used with wider grout joints.
• Use a tile leveling system to maintain consistent height between tiles.
• Adjust the trowel size to control adhesive thickness.
• Flatten the substrate with a self-leveling compound if needed.

Hollow Sounds Under Tile

That hollow “tap” when you walk across newly installed tile isn’t just annoying—it may indicate that the tile isn’t properly bonded to the subfloor. Over time, this can lead to cracks or complete tile failure.

What causes it

• Inadequate adhesive coverage
• Air pockets trapped under the tile
• Using the wrong trowel size
• Applying tiles too late after spreading adhesive

How to solve it

• Use the right trowel size to ensure full adhesive contact.
• Back-butter tiles for added coverage, especially large-format ones.
• Avoid spreading too much adhesive at once. Only spread what you can tile over in a few minutes.
• If tiles are already set and sound hollow, you may need to remove and reinstall them properly.

Stains or Discoloration

After spending time and money on a beautiful tile job, the last thing you want is to see stains or discoloration appear. Whether on the tile or in the grout, it’s a problem that can detract from the overall look.

What causes it

• Not sealing porous tiles or grout
• Using the wrong cleaning products
• Grout haze left after installation
• Water damage or mold growth

How to solve it

• Seal porous tiles and grout with a high-quality sealer to prevent staining.
• Use pH-neutral cleaners made for tile and stone to avoid chemical damage.
• Wipe off grout haze promptly after installation using a damp sponge and then buff with a soft cloth.
• Address water leaks or excess moisture promptly to prevent mold and staining.

Tile Installation Problem and Solution Summary

Here’s a quick table to summarize the common problems and how to deal with them:

Problem	Common Causes	Solutions
Uneven Tile Surfaces	Uneven subfloor, poor adhesive application	Level subfloor, use tile leveling tools
Cracked Tiles	Subfloor movement, improper adhesive	Stabilize subfloor, allow expansion gaps
Loose Tiles	Poor adhesive coverage, dried adhesive	Clean surfaces, apply adhesive properly, reset tiles
Grout Problems	Too much water, early application	Follow mixing ratios, cure properly, regrout damaged sections
Lippage	Warped tiles, uneven adhesive	Use leveling system, inspect tiles, even out substrate
Hollow Sound Under Tile	Incomplete bonding, air pockets	Use correct trowel, back-butter tiles, reapply as needed
Stains or Discoloration	No sealing, wrong cleaners, water damage	Seal tiles, use appropriate cleaners, address moisture issues

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you fix uneven tile after it’s installed?
It depends on how uneven the tiles are. Minor lippage might be tolerable, but significant differences often require removing and reinstalling the affected tiles.

Why is my new grout cracking?
Cracked grout can result from using too much water during mixing, premature application, or movement in the subfloor. Addressing the root cause is key to preventing it from recurring.

How do I know if my tile has hollow spots?
Gently tap on the tile surface. A hollow sound usually means poor adhesive contact. You might need to remove and reset those tiles.

Can I prevent tile cracking on a wooden subfloor?
Yes. Use a cement backer board or an uncoupling membrane between the wood and tile to reduce movement that causes cracking.

What’s the best way to clean grout without damaging it?
Use a pH-neutral cleaner and a soft brush. Avoid bleach or acidic cleaners unless your grout type supports it. Regular sealing also helps keep it clean longer.

Conclusion

Tile installation isn’t just about lining up pretty pieces—it’s about preparation, precision, and patience. While it’s easy to get excited and jump into a tile project, taking the time to avoid common mistakes can save you a lot of stress and repair work later. From uneven tiles to grout issues, every problem has a solution, often involving just a bit more planning or a change in materials. Whether you’re a DIYer or working with a contractor, understanding these tile troubles will help ensure your finished project is one you can be proud of for years to come.