Tile Grout Removal

Wide grout joints are easier to remove than thin without risking the edges of the tile.

Tile grout is a cement-based product that serves many important uses. In addition to making up for size inconsistencies in tiles, grout helps prevent damage to tiles and keeps moisture out of the substrate. When grout begins to get old and cracked, it needs to be removed and replaced. Many methods are used to remove grout, some by hand and some by machine. In any case, the old grout must always be completely removed before adding fresh grout.

Screwdriver and Hammer

If the amount of grout to be removed is small, such as around a small area of cracked tiles to be replaced, a screwdriver and hammer can be used to chisel out the grout. Place the tip of a flathead screwdriver on the grout joint, and hit it with the hammer away from you, which will chip grout out between the tiles. The age of the grout will determine how fast it comes out. Take care around the edges of the tile to avoid cracking or scratching the finish.

Utility Knife

For mid-size grout removal jobs, a utility knife with a fresh blade works well to remove grout without harming the surrounding tiles. Pull the blade down or toward you in short, chopping motions to dig the grout out of the joints between the tiles. A fresh blade should cut down into the grout, allowing it to be cut away. When the blade ceases to dig into the grout easily, it must be replaced. This method also works extremely well on narrow grout joints because the blade is thin enough to get between the tiles without chipping them. Using this method with wider joints can be more time consuming.

Grout Scraper

For mid-size tile jobs with wider grout joints, a grout scraper is a good alternative to a utility knife. The scraper is a tool bent into the shape of an L. The tip has a carbide tooth that is designed to dig into and pull the grout out between joints. It is used in the same way a utility knife is, in short drags down or toward you. The tooth of the scraper is often too wide for narrow grout joints, but it does a better job at digging out grout from wider joints on the first pass.

Rotary Tools

For large grout removal jobs, rotary tools can be used to grind the grout of the joint. These tools have carbide-tipped points and turn at high speeds to cut and grind through the grout. They work well for large jobs but require a very steady hand and eye to be effective. If not enough pressure is applied, they can slip and gouge the surrounding tile. You're better off using a hand tool, rather than a rotary tool, on small jobs to prevent this type of problem from occurring.

References

• Ask the Builder: Tile Grout Removal & Tools
• This Old House: The Cure for Grout