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Hollow Tiles Found During Inspection: Severity Levels & Repair Guide
Short Answer: Hollow tiles occur when tiles or plaster separate from the substrate, producing a hollow sound when tapped. Minor hollow tiles may not require immediate action, but large areas or deep delamination risk falling off and should be repaired as a priority. For new flats, request the developer to fix during the warranty period; for older properties, decide on partial or full renovation based on severity.
What Are Hollow Tiles? How to Identify Them?
Hollow tiles occur when wall plaster, floor tiles, or wall tiles have gaps between them and the underlying concrete. When tapped, they produce a distinctly hollow echo compared to the solid sound of properly bonded tiles. Commonly found in:
- Wall and ceiling plaster
- Floor and wall tiles
- Bathroom waterproofing plaster layer
Severity Levels of Hollow Tiles
| Severity | Characteristics | Recommended Action |
|---|---|---|
| Mild (Small area, high position) | Small area, no signs of falling | Monitor only, keep on record |
| Moderate (Larger area or low position) | Multiple tiles or large plaster area | Arrange repair, prioritise fixing |
| Severe (Edges lifting or cracked) | Risk of falling, visible cracks | Urgent action, may need full renovation |
Repair Methods & Costs
- Partial Tile Replacement: Replacing individual hollow tiles, generally HK$500–$3,000 depending on tile type and area
- Full Re-tiling: Re-tiling an entire room or wall, higher cost depending on area
- Plaster Re-work: Removing old plaster and re-applying, cost varies by area
FAQ
Found hollow tiles? Get a repair quote or inspection report.
Information on this page is for market reference only. Actual services are provided by individual service providers. HKHowMuch acts as a referral platform and does not assume responsibility for service quality. We recommend obtaining formal quotes from at least 3 providers for comparison.