Tile – Patch for Tile Sealant Coat

bathtubsealanttile

I have a problem with the tiles around the tub in my ~1910 residential apartment building in Washington DC.

At some point the existing tile was coated in some sort of sealant layer, which has developed a hole (approx. 3" x 3") as shown in the picture. Ideally I would like to patch the hole somehow, but I am open to any suggestions about the best way to proceed.

Hole in Tile Coating

Here is some additional information:

  • The tile underneath the hole is cracked. However, I have been told that the tiles are set in concrete and extremely difficult to remove. I am open to solutions that involve removing and replacing the old tile, or leaving it in place beneath a patch.
  • The hole is currently covered in packing tape, which can also be seen in the picture.
  • Color match is a secondary concern to water-tightness.
  • We intend to remove and replace the caulk around the tub at the same time.

Please let me know if you have any other questions that might help.

Best Answer

You'll find out when all those pieces fall out while you're puling the old caulk out.

Judging by the crack, the wall behind there is shot, so there'll be nothing to attach a new tile to. This is a can of worms you'd better be ready to tackle if you do anything.