Is it possible to remove grout

Finally, go over the whole surface with a vacuum cleaner to remove any last traces of dirt or dust, and to clean up the mess you have made on your bathroom floor.

There are lots of different types of tile grout, some designed for using on the floor, some for the wall, coloured grouts, ready mixed grouts and ones you have to mix up yourself at home.

If you have to replace your grout because of problems with mould growing, look out for a grout which has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. Ready-mixed grout is far easier to use than the do it yourself variety, and think about the effect you wish to achieve; matching the grout colour to the colour of the tiles will help it blend in, a contrasting colour will give a more dramatic effect and make your tiles stand out.

You will need three main tools to apply grout to your tiles, a rectangular tool called a grout float for applying the grout to the wall, a trowel to mix up the grout and applying it in smaller areas, and a scraper to get rid of any excess. All of these tools are sold in big DIY stores.

Mix up your grout and then use your grout float to work it well into the joints between the tiles. Keep working methodically until you have grouted all of the tiles on the wall, then use a damp sponge to clean any excess grout from your tiles. Regardless of which tool you use to remove the grout, once the joints are cleaned out, you need to use a stiff-bristle nylon brush to scrub the joints of all dust, grit, and loose debris.

Next, mix up a fresh batch of tile grout or buy a bucket of pre-mixed grout. Then, use a grout float to smear grout across the surface and deep into the joints.

Wait about 20 minutes, then use a large grout sponge and clean water to wipe the surface clean of all grout residue. Read the label on the grout container to find out how long it takes for the grout to cure usually 48 hours or longer. Once it's fully cured, apply a silicone-based sealer to the grout to increase its water and stain resistance. Type keyword s to search.

Today's Top Stories. Joseph Truini Joe is a former carpenter and cabinetmaker who writes extensively about remodeling, woodworking, and tool techniques. This task, which you may have been dreading for months or even years, may take as little as an afternoon, depending on the size of the tile area.

While you can do this job manually, you make the job considerably easier if you purchase an oscillating multi-tool and fit it with a grout removal blade.

Armed with this handy tool, you can remove 15 square feet of grout on 4-byinch tile in about one hour. There are a few good reasons why you might want or need to remove old tile grout:. Put on safety goggles to protect your eyes. Fit the oscillating tool with a blade designed for removing tile grout. Start by holding the tool horizontally or vertically in the case of vertical seams , turning on the power, and lightly pressing the blade to the grout.

Let the power tool do the work; do not force it. The blade should easily chew through the grout. As you work, place large chunks of grout in the garbage bag. You'll be able to vacuum up smaller pieces later. An oscillating tool removes grout without harming the tile because the grout is much softer than the tile. However, it is possible to damage the tile if you press too hard or for too long. Work carefully and keep your eye on the blade.

Once you have removed as much grout as possible by holding the tool horizontally, it is time to gently angle the blade to remove more grout. Work slowly and patiently to help ensure that you do not damage the edges of your tile. One trick is to support your arm on a toolbox , so it does not get tired during the process. After you have done as much grout removal as possible with the power tool, your next line of attack is the small carbide tip grout-removal tool.