Replacing Ceramic Accessories in the Bathroom

Broken soap dishes, towel racks and grab bars are replaceable--but as a rule should not be duplicated. In most cases it is easier to use one that is attached differently.

Most accessories are originally set into tile walls with portland cement, which is messy to handle. It is therefore best to replace a grab bar or towel rack with a type that can be screwed into the wall. A light soap dish can be easily applied with tile adhesive; select one without a grab handle, so that you will not be tempted to pull yourself up on it.

Bathing Accessories

To replace a soap dish, first remove the dish from the wall. With a utility knife, score the grout around the soap dish. Protect the adjacent tiles by covering their edges with masking tape. Then, wearing goggles, lightly hammer the broken parts of the dish to loosen them. Set a cold chisel in the groove made by the knife and tap it to force out the dish. Remove the old grout and tile adhesive.

Select a replacement dish that will take up exactly the same number of tile spaces as the old one. Attach the replacement by applying a coat of tile adhesive to the back of the soap dish, then hold it in place with masking tape until the adhesive sets. Wait at least 24 hours for the cement to dry thoroughly, then seal the joints with grout.

Replacing a grab bar or towel rack is just as simple. If a grab bar or towel rack breaks, do not gouge out the cement or remaining ceramic piece, but try to get it as flush as possible with the surrounding tiles. Protest the tile with masking tape and, wearing goggles, use a hammer and cold chisel, then the sanding attachment on an electric drill to remove as much protrusion as possible.

Replacing Ceramic Accessories in the Bathroom

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