How to Regrout a Bathroom Tub

Good grout protects the area around your bathtub.

Degraded grout is not only unsightly but can be the source of a lot of trouble. It can eventually lead to wet, moldy drywall and studs and even serious water damage to the floor of the bathroom and, if the bathroom tub in question is not on the first floor, the ceiling below. Damaged grout should be replaced as soon as the damage is found.

Things You'll Need

• Grout
• Grout saw
• Sponge or rag
• Grout float
• Squeegee or grout sponge
• Grout sealant
• Dry towel or rag

Instructions

1. Purchase the right color and type of grout. Make sure the new grout matches the old grout -- especially if you are only replacing a small section. For tiles that are spaced wider than 1/8 inch apart, purchase sanded grout. The sand gives greater strength for larger gaps. For tiles that are spaced less than 1/8 inch apart, purchase nonsanded grout. The nonsanded grout flows and fills smaller gaps more easily. Get nonshrinking grout if possible. For marble tiles use only nonsanded grout, no matter how wide the gap is between tiles. The sand will graze the marble, and it cannot be repaired.

2. Clean the old grout. Remove any mildew or soap residue completely and allow it to dry overnight.

3. Remove the damaged grout with a grout saw. Make sure all of the old grout is completely removed. Any leftover old grout will compromise the new grout and cause it to crack and crumble.

4. Mix the grout according to the directions on the package.

5. Wipe down the gaps and tiles with a damp rag or sponge. Grout is mortar, not glue, and requires some moisture for proper adhesion. The gaps should only be damp, not soaked.

6. Apply the grout uniformly, filling all the gaps between the tiles using the grout float. Use your wet finger to smooth the grout after all the gaps are filled. If there are any low spots, go over the whole gap with the grout float and then your finger again until the gap is evenly filled and smooth.

7. Remove any grout that has gotten on the tiles with a squeegee or grout sponge. If you accidentally disturb the grout, simply reapply with the grout float and smooth it again.

8. Inspect the grout after it is completely dry for any shrinking or cracking. Drying time should be listed on the grout packaging.

9. Apply the grout again anywhere there are cracks or separation from shrinking.

10. Seal the new grout with grout sealant after it is completely dry and you are satisfied with the result. The sealant will protect the grout from moisture and help keep stains and mildew from forming.

11. Wipe down the tiles after the sealant has dried completely with a damp sponge or rag. Remove all remaining residue. You will notice a haze on the tiles. Allow the haze to dry on the tiles and wipe it down again with a dry towel or rag. Your tiles will look shiny and new.

Tips & Warnings

• Follow manufacturer's instructions and precautions.

References

• DoItYourself: How to Re-Grout Ceramic Tile
• HandymanUSA: Plumbing Bathroom Tile Q's & A's