How to Patch Terra Cotta Tile

Remove any broken pieces of tile or other debris around the area that will be patched. If the tile is glazed, you may use a glass cutter to create an even border between the damaged area and the rest of the tile.

Scrub the area with a wire brush. The brush will rough up the surface, making it easier for the grout to adhere to the tile. Clean the area with water when you are finished with the brush.

Buy a colorized mason sand that matches the color of the existing tile. Ask for samples from a local supplier or home improvement store and take them home to compare them against your terra cotta to find the closest match. Mix the mortar using your colorized sand and water per the manufacturer's instructions.

Patch the broken tile with the mortar. Add extra mortar to the damaged area to allow for some shrinkage as the mortar sets. Allow the mortar to dry for the time recommended by the manufacturer and then go over it with a trowel to make the patch level with the surrounding tile.

Finish the patch on unglazed tile with microcrystalline wax. On glazed tile, finish the tile with a sealant and clear glaze.