Revovation tip: How to regrout tiles

8 July 2010

Regrouting tiles is not a difficult job. In fact, one of our clients was surprised how easy it was and very satisfying too. But you do need time, elbow grease and patience.

You’ll be amazed at the difference regrouting makes. You’ll probably need a day to do the job but the results can be spectacular.

Remove the old grout

Special grouting tool, grouting saw, to remove grout from tiles

Grouting saw for removing grout

Use a grout saw for removing the grout. These are available at hardware stores and are not expensive (under $15.00).

The angled handle allows you apply pressure as the blade is scraped over the grout to remove it. Be careful that you maintain pressure on the grout only. If your tool runs off over the tiles, it will leave a permanent scratch.

Once you have removed the grout with the grout saw, remove the dust with a vacuum. Before you start regrouting, wash the surface with a solution of half water and half white vinegar.

Regrout the tiles

A grouting float is a special grouting tool for applying grout to tiles

A grouting float makes applying grout very easy

Mix the new grout in a bucket to the consistency of toothpaste. Check the instructions on dry grout packet. If you are using premixed grout (which is more expensive), you’re ready to go.

Put grout on the grouting float and wipe diagonally across the tiles so that the grout is pushed into the gaps. Leave it to set for 15 to 30 minutes then use a damp sponge and clean water to wipe away the grout on the tiles.

You can also purchase a tile grout cleaning sponge and a grout scourer which will take all the excess grout off the tiles and make sure your tiles sparkle.

Seal the grout

The grout needs to cure for two to three days. If you need to use the area during this time, you can purchase some plastic to put up to stop water getting onto your newly-grouted surface. After two days, apply a sealer with a small paintbrush. Wipe excess sealer off the tiles with a damp cloth as you go.

A grouting scourer removes all the residue grout particles from the tiles

Grouting scourer for removing all the residue grout particles from the tiles

There are plenty of videos on YouTube that show you how to regrout tiles. Here’s a regrouting video to get you started.

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