What happens when a tile cracks or goes missing? In order to achieve a uniform look, it’s important to source a matching tile replacement.
Sometimes, this can be tricky, due to availability, location, or age of the tiles or location. So in this article, we’ll discuss practical ways to track down the perfect match, as well as alternatives when a matching tile isn’t available.
Have you searched your client’s or your own storage spaces? Contractors typically leave behind extra tiles after installation in case future repairs are needed.
If you took delivery of the tiles originally, were some extras left behind? Similarly, if the tiles were delivered to a client, ask them to check their storerooms, garage, attic or basement.
Another option for obtaining extras is to try to get in touch with the original contractor or installer. They may have kept a record of the tile make and model, and even a few spares on site.
Be sure that you know the specific brand and style of the tile, as this can save you time and narrow down the search.
If the search for extras has come up short, it is a good idea to visit local tile retailers or hardware shops.
Take a photograph of the tile and measure it, so that you can help staff to identify the closest match. You should also know the material and finish.
Flip over a loose or damaged tile—manufacturers often stamp identifying details (brand, style number, batch code) on the back. This can help you track down the original or locate a close match. Some tile retailers and apps allow you to upload a photo of your tile to identify potential matches using visual recognition technology.
Tile shops stock similar patterns and may even carry older or discontinued lines.
For more vintage or discontinued tiles, architectural salvage yards could hold some treasures.
If physical shops don’t have an exact match or close fit, it might be time to turn your attention online. From eBay to Craigslist, there are many online marketplaces that are excellent for leftover tiles or those which have been discontinued.
It’s not just online retailers or marketplaces – Facebook groups and forums can also come in handy in the search for a specific tile type.
If finding the tile match just isn’t possible, don’t be discouraged.
You might be able to turn this problem into an opportunity to refresh your space with a design alternative.
One of these alternatives is to create a border by framing the area with a complementary tile, turning the repair into a deliberate feature. You could also incorporate the new tile into a repeating pattern that blends the old and new.
There is also the option of adding smaller tiles or mosaic pieces that can fill gaps with an agreeable look while offering a touch of flair.
These options are especially useful when the missing tiles are in a visible area and a patch job just won’t blend in.
A well-planned accent design can look intentional and artistic.
When all else fails, custom tiles can come to the rescue. Today’s tile makers offer custom tile manufacturing services that allow you to reproduce a tile to match the exact colour, shape, glaze, and size of your existing ones.
Here at Digital Ceramics, we use a combination of traditional ceramic printing and our advanced digital ceramic printing method to create custom designs. All you need to do is submit details about your tile – including dimensions, photos, and a physical sample if possible. We can then create a custom tile order tailored to your needs.
It is also possible to replicate the glaze, with colour matching, although you should note that this process can take longer and will usually incur an extra cost.
Finding a matching tile replacement can be a challenge, but it’s far from impossible.
Which of the five steps above will you take? This could come down to availability, budget, and the preferences of a home or business owner.
We’d recommend starting by checking what is immediately available to you, before expanding your search locally and online. If you haven’t found a match from these sources, think about custom tiles or design alternatives that can offer a smart and stylish solution to the problem.
Ultimately, patience is the key in this scenario, think methodically and your resourcefulness will most certainly be rewarded!
Talk to us today and find out how we can transform a project of any scale into an exciting visual experience.
