Tiles popping up and cracking: What are the causes and what you can do about it

Dislodged and cracked tiles, especially in HDB flats, have made the news recently, with the latest case reported last month in a 16-year-old flat. These occurrences are usually characterised by the popping sound as the tiles get dislodged and shatter. 

While not all cases are reported, it’s not uncommon. In 2019, an average of 247 reported cases of tiles popping up in HDB flats every month. Over the past three years, the Community Development Council (CDC) has assisted 146 households with dislodged tile repairs. 

When tiles get dislodged and crack without warning, they can pose safety hazards to residents. So, knowing the possible causes and how to prevent your tiles from cracking at home is good.

Understanding the material and installation standards of tiles

To mitigate the risk of tile dislodgement and cracking, it is crucial to understand the materials used in tile production and the standards for installation. Tiles come in various materials, such as ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone, each with its properties and requirements for installation.

For instance, porcelain tiles are denser and less porous than ceramic tiles, making them more suitable for areas with high moisture levels. However, they also require a more precise installation process to prevent cracking. It is advisable to consult with a professional to understand the specifications of the tiles you are using and ensure they are suitable for your home’s conditions.

Additionally, adherence to industry standards for tile installation, such as those set by the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) in Singapore, can significantly reduce the likelihood of tile failure. These standards cover everything from the correct mixture of mortar to the proper setting time, which can help maintain the integrity of your tiled surfaces for years.

Why do tiles crack and get dislodged? 

There are various possible reasons, including weather changes and poor workmanship. 

Weather changes

Drastic changes in hot and cold temperatures can cause tiles to contract and expand too quickly, leading to a loss of adhesion between the tiles and screed over time. It may also cause more stress, increasing the likelihood of the tiles’ dislodging. 

Although Singapore doesn’t experience drastic temperature changes like temperate countries, there have been cases where tiles cracked because of weather changes. 

In December 2019, when colder weather and temperature fluctuations were observed, there were 580 reported cases of dislodged tiles. This was way higher than the average monthly cases of 247 in the same year. 

Another possible cause is the moisture that’s trapped under the tiles. Due to high moisture absorption, the tiles can swell and expand, creating pressure that makes them pop up. 

Poor workmanship

Besides weather changes, a likely explanation for cracked tiles is poor workmanship. When sand, cement and water are not mixed evenly to make the cement base, air pockets are formed underneath the tiles. Since they’re not bonded to the base properly, they are more susceptible to cracking and popping. 

Likewise, how evenly the cement screed is applied can affect the adhesion of the tiles. 

Putting the tiles too close together can also increase the risk of them popping up and getting dislodged. The tiles may eventually bend and crack if the gaps are not wide enough to expand and contract. As a rule, the gap should be at least 2mm. 

And if the tiles are of poor quality, there’s a higher chance of them breaking. 

Wear and tear

As with all fixtures, tiles are subject to wear and tear. The bond between the tiles and cement base may weaken over time. The concrete surface and cement base may also shrink, leading to the tiles cracking. 

How do you prevent tiles from cracking and popping up?

If your unit is new, after you’ve gotten your keys, you should check all the fixtures and fittings that come with it. If you find any defects, such as cracked or uneven floor tiles, inform the developer to get them fixed. 

During the renovation, ensure that the contractors have done all the necessary preparation before tiling. This includes checking if the subfloor is even and if the floor surface has been cleaned. 

You can check for hollow tiles by tapping on them with a light tool for current homeowners. You can try to get in some adhesives to prevent them from popping up. 

Tile grouts help to keep the tiles in place. If you find that the tile grouts in the joints have come off, you may also regrout your tiles.

Regular maintenance and early detection

Regular maintenance is key to prolonging the life of your tiled floors and walls. Homeowners should conduct periodic checks for signs of wear and tear or any early indications of potential tile problems. This includes looking for cracks in the grout, listening for changes in the sound tiles make when walked on, which could indicate loosening, and monitoring for any visible changes in the level or condition of the tiles.

Early detection of these signs can allow for timely repairs, preventing further damage and reducing the risk of tiles popping up. In addition, it’s beneficial to maintain a consistent indoor temperature and humidity level to minimize the expansion and contraction of tiles. Using dehumidifiers during high humidity seasons and avoiding direct heat sources near tiled areas can also contribute to the longevity of your tile installations.

By taking these proactive steps, homeowners can maintain their tiles’ aesthetic appeal and functionality, ensuring a safe and comfortable living environment.

What can you do if your tiles start popping up and cracking? 

If your tiles start cracking and popping, be sure to move as far away as possible. 

Once they stop popping, remove the loose tiles and put them aside. For safety reasons, ensure that the area is clean of the shards from the cracked tiles. 

Cover the area with protective sheets like cardboard, newspapers or carpets to prevent injuries. Otherwise, you can move your furniture, such as a sofa, to cover the area. 

Until repairs are done, try not to step on this area. Whether you can get your developer to cover the repairs depends on the age of your unit. 

If your house is less than one year old

Whether it’s an HDB flat or private housing, your house is still covered under the one-year Defects Liability Period (DLP). It usually starts when the development receives its Temporary Occupation Period (TOP). 

Should the tiles crack within a year, HDB or the developer will cover the repair for the original tiles provided. 

If your house is less than 15 years old

In Singapore, developers are liable for latent defects up to 15 years from the project completion date. These defects are not easy to discover, as they only emerge after some time, such as structural issues. 

If the cracked tiles come with the unit, you can approach the developer, who will assess if it’s a latent defect. So, depending on the case, they may or may not cover the tile repair. 

HDB usually offers goodwill repairs for up to 15 years for dislodged tiles in flats. 

If your house is older than 15 years old

Since the warranty period is over, you’re responsible for the tile repair cost. This means you’ll need to engage a contractor independently for the repair. 

If you’re living in an HDB flat, you can engage one of the registered contractors on this list. 

Should you require any financial assistance for the repair cost, you can approach grassroots organisations and the Community Development Councils (CDCs) for support. 

If you found this article helpful, 99.co recommends My complete BTO experience: From balloting to renovation regrets and 7 Types of Flooring Commonly Used in Homes. 

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