How to Fix Bathroom Tile Grout
Grout is an important part of bathroom tiling. It fills in the spaces between the tiles, protecting the tile from dirt, debris and water, and it assists in holding the tiles together. Grout can sustain damage over time. Whether it is chipped, cracked or crumbling, it is important to fix tile grout to protect the entire tiled surface. To fix grout, you must remove and regrout the damaged area. Fix bathroom tile grout properly by following the appropriate steps and using the right tools and products. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Distilled white vinegar
- Water
- Bucket
- Stiff scrub brush
- Grout saw
- Utility knife
- Vacuum cleaner
- Grout
- Grout float
- Sponge
- Towel
Instructions
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1
Clean the area of damaged grout prior to making any repairs. Mix a solution of one part distilled white vinegar and three parts water into a bucket. Scrub the damaged grout with a stiff brush dipped into the cleaning solution.
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2
Remove the damaged grout from the joints with a grout saw. A grout saw is an inexpensive tool that is specifically made to cut the grout in narrow spaces between tiles. Move the grout saw up and down in the joints to remove the existing grout down to the substratum. Do this very carefully so not to chip or scratch the tile. Remove grout that is still left in the joints with a utility knife.
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3
Use a hose attachment on a vacuum cleaner to remove the small grout particles and other debris from the joints. The joints must be free of dirt and debris in order for the new grout to set properly.
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4
Mix a batch of grout into a bucket or use a premixed grout. Follow the grout manufacturer's specific instructions for mixing. Do not mix too large a batch at one time. Grout hardens rather quickly, so only mix enough for about 20 minutes of work.
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5
Apply the grout to the damaged areas using a grout float. Hold the grout float at a 30-degree angle and work in a diagonal motion to smooth the grout into the joints. Press firmly to completely pack the joints with grout. You will know the joints are full when you begin to feel resistance when packing it down. Remove excess grout from the surface by holding the grout float on its edge and sliding it diagonally over the tiles.
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6
Fill a bucket with water. Dip a large sponge into the water and wring it out thoroughly. Wipe the tiles and joints with the sponge, working in a circular pattern. Rinse and wring out the sponge often. Wait until the applied grout is firm but not completely dry to begin removing leftover grout from the surface. This may take up to 20 minutes, depending on the grout you use. Once the tiles appear hazy, go over the area with a dry towel to polish.
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7
Allow the grout to cure for three days and then apply a grout sealer. It is important to seal the grout to prevent stains and damage. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper application.
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