How to Repair Cracked Grout
Grout is important in maintaining a tiled surface. Not only does it assist in holding the tiles together, it protects the tiles from water seepage. Grout is a porous substance, so over time it may crack from absorbing so much moisture. Cracked grout not only diminishes the overall appearance of the tiled surface, it also diminishes its ability to protect the tile. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Water
- White vinegar
- Bucket
- Rags
- Grout saw
- Paper towels
- Grout
- Kitchen spatula
- Grout float
- Grout sponge
Instructions
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1
Mix a solution of three parts water to one part white vinegar into a bucket. Dip a rag into the mixture and clean the cracked grout joints.
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2
Remove the cracked grout using a grout saw. This is an inexpensive tool that can be purchased at most home improvement stores. Run the grout saw up and down over the cracked grout and it will chip it away. Take care not to scratch or damage the tile
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3
Use a damp rag to moisten the joints where the grout was removed. Blot up excess water that may puddle in the joints with a paper towel.
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4
Mix a batch of grout according to the packaging directions. A kitchen spatula works well for mixing the grout.
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5
Scoop out a generous amount of grout onto the joints with a kitchen spatula. Spread the grout over the joints using a grout float. Hold the grout float at a slight angle and work in a diagonal motion to ensure that the joints are tightly packed with grout. Go over the same joint several times until the grout completely fills the joint.
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6
Smooth out the grout over the joints using your finger. Go over the joint again with the grout float, this time with the edge of the float on the tile, to remove any excess grout from the joints and tile. Follow this up by going over the newly grouted area with a moistened grout sponge. Rinse the sponge frequently to remove excess grout.
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7
Allow the grout to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions. Wipe the tile again with a damp sponge to remove any residual grout from the tile. Follow this with a dry towel over the area to remove haze left by the grout.
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