How to Regrout Bathroom Tile

Old or damaged grout makes the most beautiful tile look unappealing. Tile grout mildews, begins to look aged and presents a health hazard. Rerouting bathroom tile is a simple, inexpensive way to make old tile look fresh and new. Read on to learn how to regrout bathroom tile.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Mildew Remover
• Grout Saw
• Chisel or Utility Knife
• Vacuum
• Grout
• Grout Float
• Grout Sealer
• Tile Sponge

Preparing the Tile

1. Choose a grout color. If you are regrouting an entire bathroom, choose a color that matches the tile. For small jobs, match the grout color with the existing grout.

2. Scrub the tiles and grout with a household cleaning solution.

3. Saw along the grout lines with a grout saw or small knife that cuts into narrow spaces.

4. Remove the remaining grout with a chisel or utility knife.

5. Vacuum out the leftover chunks or debris from the spaces around the tile. If any of the tiles need to be replaced, replace them now.

6. Clean the tile. Remove soap scum and dirt. Any household cleaner designed to remove soap scum is perfect for the job.

Apply the Grout

1. Mix the grout. Grout is sold pre-mixed or dry. If you need to mix the grout, read the directions on the package and follow the instructions. Latex-modified grout is more water resistant and does not crack over time.

2. Spread the grout over the tile and smooth it out with a grout float. Angle the top of the float to 30 degrees.

3. Use the float to press the grout into the empty spaces between the tiles. When the grout becomes hard to push down, the spaces are full.

4. Run the float across the top of the tiles to remove excess grout.

5. Wait five to ten minutes. Wet a sponge with water and wipe over the top of the tiles to clean any leftover grout.

6. Cure the grout for at least three days.

7. Seal the grout with a grout sealer. This keeps water and mildew out of the grout. If using ceramic tiles, use a silicone or water-based grout sealer. Brush it along the joints between the tiles. Wipe excess sealant off the surface of the tiles. If you have porous tiles, use an acrylic top-coat and seal the entire surface of the tile.