Things You'll Need:
- Goggles
- Hammer
- Chisel
- Grout removal tool
- Grout
- Small mixing bucket
- Rubber grout float
- Large clean sponge
-
Step 1
Know that when you replace grout in your shower’s ceramic tile, removing the old grout is the most difficult part of the project. Getting the old grout out without doing any damage to your tiles requires patience and attention to details. Be ready to take your time and use slow deliberate moves. Make sure you choose the proper size chisel to remove the grout from between the tiles. Using a chisel that is too large can result in broken tiles. For thin grout lines, a small screwdriver may be just right. You can also purchase a grout removal tool. A grout removal tool sands the grout from between the tiles. While a grout removal tool does help you must still use precautions not to chip or damage the tiles.
-
Step 2
Learn how to use a chisel. Firmly angle your chisel on the grout between your tiles. Use a hammer to make quick taps to your chisel. These taps will cause the grout to crack and crumble. Continue working bit by bit with the chisel until the area is clean and free of old grout. Make sure all the old grout gets removed as applying fresh grout over old can lead to the same problem you are fixing.
-
Step 3
After all the grout is out, wipe the tiles and grout-line with a clean dry towel. You want to make sure the area is clean and dry before you begin to apply your new grout.
-
Step 4
In a small plastic container, mix according to directions, just enough grout to cover the area to be replaced or a few small feet, whichever is smaller. Don’t mix large amounts of grout at one time. It may start to harden before you have time to use it. The grout should have a consistency similar to that of peanut butter.
-
Step 5
To begin filling, pour the grout over the cleaned tiles. Don’t worry about getting the grout on the tiles. Spreading the grout over the entire surface is the best way to ensure you get enough grout into your grout lines. Using your rubber grout float push the grout between the tiles. Continue moving the float over the tiles until all spaces are full of grout. Be sure to clean the excess grout off your tile as you go. With each pass clean the excess grout off of your float. Keeping the float and the tiles free of grout makes the later clean-up much easier. Plus the grout won’t be hardening in areas where you don’t want grout
-
Step 6
To finish the grout run the sponge across the grouted joints, moving diagonally. Clean your sponge after each swipe. The sponge should stay damp, not wet. Wipe any grouting material off the tile surface. After four to six hours the grout should be dry. Once the grout is completely dry, wipe the area with a soft dry cloth to remove grout film and dust on the tiles.
