How to Color Tile Grout

Grout can be painted to change the color.

Old or discolored tile grout can quickly date an installation. When the grout is in good shape, with cracks or gaps, removing it simply because it looks dingy can seem like a lot of work. The good news is that grout can be recolored or painted to look new again. Regardless of whether you want the color to become darker or lighter, grout dyes are available that can completely cover the old grout. Not only will this rejuvenate the tile job, grout dyes can also seal and protect the grout against further discoloring.

Things You'll Need

• Tile and grout cleaner
• Scrub brush
• Grout dye
• Small artist's paintbrush

Instructions

1. Clean the grout well using a tile and grout cleaner that removes surface debris, mold and mildew. Use a scrub brush to get the grout as clean as possible. While this will not affect the color of the grout, it will help to remove surface debris that can interfere with the grout absorbing the new color.

2. Allow the grout to dry completely. The grout will have to absorb the dye, so ensure that enough time has passed for all water to evaporate from the grout.

3. Start at the top of a row of tile and carefully apply a small amount of grout color to the old grout. Work in small sections, pulling the paintbrush downwards and toward you to avoid streaking or drips. Take care to paint only the grout and avoid getting the dye on the surrounding tiles. If the dye does get on a tile, wipe it off as soon as possible with a soft cloth. Allow the new grout color to dry overnight.

References

• This Old House: The Cure for Grout

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish