Replacing Old Tile Grout

Work slowly image 3.

Replacing old tile grout.

If the grout between your tiles is damaged it can make your tiles look dull and old. In many cases it is faster and easier to remove the grout than to clean it. Use the scraper to clean off large debris and then clean off any soapy residue with a damp cloth. Indeed regrouting tile can restore lost luster and is well worth the time and effort.

At most tile specialty shops you can get or order sanded caulk most floor grouts are sanded that will closely match your existing grout color. Fortunately you can easily remove damaged grout and replace it with new grout so your tiles look brand new again. Fortunately it s well within the range of the average do it yourselfer to remove and replace grout. Choose the correct type of grout based on the width of your tile joints and where the repair is being done.

Grout is a cement based paste that s used to fill the gaps between tiles. Make sure the bit is the right size for the space between the tiles and adjust the bit to the proper depth. Never use sanded grout with metal glass or marble tiles. The old grout might be moldy and beyond cleanable.

The blade is harder than the grout and will cut it away image 1. When remodeling a bathroom or kitchen the hardest part can be removing the grout from pre existing tile. For small areas use a grout removal tool with a carbide blade. Grout is made from water cement and sand which hardens over time to form a rock like material.

If the width is 1 8 of an inch or smaller use an unsanded grout. For much larger areas use a rotary tool image 2. Check out how easy it is to repair cracked or worn grout in your shower tub or any other tiled area. But the more effective way is to use entirely new tinted grout.

This fix is only practical for interior tile floors and when the gaps between the tiles are 1 4 in. If the space is larger than 1 8 of an inch use a sanded grout. The existing grout color is no longer pleasing to you and you wish to change it. Begin by giving the tile a good cleaning with a sponge and soapy citric acid water as adescaling solution and use a toothbrush to deep clean grout to remove deposits and stains that may make removal more challenging.

Measure the space between the tiles.