Start by removing the grout around the loose tile so you can lift it without cracking neighboring tiles.

Carefully score and remove the grout around the affected tile using a grout saw or an oscillating tool with a grout blade, keeping the cut shallow where tiles meet to avoid chipping. Gently pry the tile up with a flat chisel and a putty knife working from one edge and easing under the tile to break the bond without snapping the tile; support the tile as you lift so you can reuse it if intact. Scrape away old thinset or mortar from the subfloor and from the back of the tile using a stiff scraper until you reach a solid, clean surface and check the subfloor for soft spots or movement by pressing and listening for hollow sounds. If the subfloor is compromised, remove the damaged section and install a cement backer board or an appropriate patch to create a rigid, stable base; for wood subfloors use a plywood patch secured with screws and construction adhesive and for concrete fill cracks with a polymer-modified patch. Mix a fresh mortar of the appropriate type for the tile and substrate using the manufacturer instructions and a margin trowel; use a notched trowel to butter the subfloor and key mortar onto the tile back to ensure full bedding and avoid voids that trap moisture. Set the tile into place with firm, even pressure and twist slightly to seat it, check that it is flush with surrounding tiles using a straightedge or by sight, allow the mortar to cure as directed then regrout with a grout that matches the joint width and type, sealing the grout if recommended for laundry room moisture protection.

Common problems include reoccurrence from a weak bond because old mortar was not fully removed, which you fix by cleaning both surfaces to a solid substrate and using fresh, appropriate mortar applied with full coverage. Another issue is subfloor movement causing tile loosening, addressed by repairing or replacing the soft or flexible subfloor and installing a cement backer board or using full mortar bed techniques to stabilize the tile plane. A third concern is improper curing and premature use of the floor, so always follow the mortar and grout cure times, keep traffic and appliances off the area for the recommended period and use spacers and consistent joint depth during installation to prevent uneven loading.

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