Published: 6 October 2026 · 365 Build & Design, Kyrenia, North Cyprus
Hollow-sounding tiles, raised edges, a crack running across a terrace or a pool surround that has dropped in one corner: these are all signs that something underneath has moved, not just that the tile has failed.
Common causes
- Movement and expansion — big temperature swings between day and night, and between seasons, with no proper movement joints to absorb them.
- Poor sub-base or compaction — ground that was not prepared and compacted well enough settles over time.
- Water getting underneath — failed grout or sealant, or poor falls, lets water wash out the bedding or soften the base.
- Wrong adhesive or insufficient coverage — tiles stuck on spots rather than a full bed can sound hollow and lift.
- Drainage problems — water that cannot run away sits under the slabs and tiles.
Why re-fixing a few tiles is often not enough
If the base has moved or water keeps getting in, loose tiles stuck back down will lift again. The cause has to be found first.
What a lasting repair involves
- Investigate: tap-test the area, check falls and drainage, and look for where water is entering.
- Lift only what needs to come up and correct the base: re-level, re-compact or re-lay as required.
- Fix drainage and falls so water leaves the area.
- Re-lay with the correct adhesive, full-bed coverage and proper movement joints.
- Grout and seal for the climate, so the joints stay watertight.
Pool surrounds and terraces
Pool surrounds take constant water, sun and movement, so they benefit from careful setting-out, suitable non-slip tiles and good drainage from the start. If you notice lifting or hollow tiles, deal with them before water gets underneath and the area spreads.
Our fully English-speaking team handles floor, wall, terrace and pool-surround tiling, along with the groundwork beneath, using 40 years of UK building experience across Kyrenia and North Cyprus. Send us photos on WhatsApp and we will tell you honestly what is needed.
📞 Message us on WhatsApp: wa.me/905428833240 🔗 365builddesign.com
