Getting rid of grout is not rocket science, but it can perform up a significant sweat. Most moments, grout elimination is messy, and the wrong techniques can hurt your tile surface. This is particularly real if you have lackluster handyman abilities.
If you’re possessing problems removing grout from your tile surface, worry not. Hold studying to understand the most efficient way to remove grout from your tiles. But 1st, what is tile grout?
What Is Tile Grout?
Grout is a construction substance utilized to fill the joints among tiles. Grout is made up of h2o, cement, and sand, and it’s used to hold tiles in spot. It arrives in distinct colours, so you can choose one particular that matches your tile coloration or goes with the style of your space.
- Cement-based grout
- Epoxy grout
Cement-dependent grouts are produced of Portland cement and other components, even though epoxy grouts are produced of two components epoxy resin and hardener. Whatsoever the variety, grout need to be sealed to shield it from stains and h2o injury.
Reasons to Remove Tile Grout
It is not every day that you decide to wake up and take away grout. However, often taking away tile grout is essential. Below are a few of reasons why you may want to do so.
Dirty and Moldy Grout
Grout can become stained and soiled more than time, particularly in places that get a lot of site visitors or are constantly uncovered to drinking water. In kitchens and bogs, for case in point, mold and mildew can develop in the grout if it is not properly sealed. If you notice your grout is hunting dirty or discolored, you may want to try out cleaning it 1st. If that doesn’t work, you can usually remove and replace it.
To Change the Grout Color
Possibly you want to go for a different seem or are just tired of looking at the same outdated factor. What ever the cause, changing the grout shade is straightforward to do and doesn’t call for a good deal of time or hard work.
The Grout Is Damaged and Falling Off
Grout can chip and tumble out over time, specially if it was not applied accurately in the initial spot. If the grout is chipped or broken, it may be best to remove it and commence from scratch. This will support make certain that your tile surface looks its ideal.
How to Remove Tile Grout
Now that we’ve absent more than what tile grout is and why you might want to get rid of it, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of how to do so.
The Tools
Eliminating grout from your tile surface area is a breeze if you have the appropriate equipment and know how to do it the right way.
- A putty knife
- A grout saw
- A drill with an attachment
- Garbage bag
If you do not very own a drill with an attachment, an oscillating instrument will operate even better. Which is due to the fact the pressure of this resource is just adequate to expel the grout but not sufficient to hurt the surrounding tiles.
Preparation
Prior to taking away the grout, you will have to put together the work location for the process. This will give you the self confidence to perform and aid you complete the operate on time. Here’s how you put together for the grout elimination.
Clean and the Work Area
Very first issues very first, clear the operate area and remove any dirt, dust, or debris. This will give you a cleanse slate to function on and support you avoid producing a even bigger mess. Once the region is clear, tape off any locations that you do not want grout removing debris to get on.
This involves baseboards, cupboards, walls, and floors. You can use painters’ tape or masking tape for this purpose. Just make certain that the tape is firmly hooked up to the area.
Wet the Grout Lines
The next step is to damp the grout strains with water. This will support soften the grout and make it easier to eliminate. Use a spray bottle or sponge to wet the region.
The Removal
Once you slap on your gloves and protection goggles, it is now time to take away the grout.
1. Grind the Grout Straight On
Utilizing your drill with the attachments, commence grinding the grout out of the joints. Keep the device horizontally, switch it on and press the blade on to the grout. Do it evenly at first to ensure you are on the proper keep track of, then enhance the stress. The electricity device must do most of the function, so there is no require to use excessive power. Operate slowly to keep away from damaging the tiles.
2. Tilt the Drill to Grind the Grout at an Angle
If the grout is still not budging, try tilting the drill at a forty five-diploma angle and grinding the grout out that way. This approach will just take for a longer time, but it is a lot more effective in acquiring rid of difficult grout. Also, be certain to use a mild hand.
If you feel your palms getting a bit drained, try resting them on your toolbox even though grinding the grout. Alternatively, you can use your weak hand to help your robust hand to decrease the load on the latter.
3. Use the Saw for Stubborn Grout
For regions where the grout is specially stubborn, use the grout observed. The sharp teeth on the grout observed will make swift work of even the most challenging-to-get rid of grout.
As with all electricity instruments, take your time and be extra careful not to harm the tile surface. The grout observed is exceptionally sharp, so one particular mistaken shift could simply damage your tiles or hurt you.
4. Vacuum the Mess
As soon as you’ve eliminated all the grout, it is now time to cleanse up the mess. Use a store vacuum to suck up all the dust and particles left guiding. Alternatively, you can use a broom and dustpan. Be positive to dispose of the grout correctly.
Manual Grout Removal
If you really don't have helpful equipment, you can nevertheless get rid of the grout manually. Even so, this is a lot far more challenging, but not not possible.
- Grout removal tool (preferably with a triangular carbide)
- Gloves and goggles
- Hammer
- Flathead screwdriver
- Vacuum with crevice tool
- Chisel
1. Score the Grout With the Carbide-Tipped Grout Removal Tool
Right after sporting your basic safety gear, score the grout with the carbide-tipped grout removing resource. You’ll want to make sure that you only score the grout and not the tile.
2. Insert the Screwdriver Into the Grout Line
You’ll then require to insert a flathead screwdriver into the grout line and tap it with a hammer. Do this all along the grout line till the grout is loosened.
3. Use the Chisel to Remove the Grout
When the grout is loosened, use a chisel to remove it from the floor. Start off at 1 finish and work your way down. Bear in mind to only chisel the grout and not the tile.
4. Vacuum up the Debris
As soon as you’ve taken out all the grout, it is now time to vacuum up the debris. Use a store vacuum with a crevice tool attachment to get all the nooks and crannies. Alternatively, you can use a broom and dustpan.
Removing Epoxy Grout
Epoxy grout is a lot more difficult to remove manually simply because it’s a lot more difficult to rating. But with the proper equipment, you can simply remove epoxy grout without breaking a sweat.
- Wooden paint stirrer
- Epoxy stripper
- A pitcher of cool water
- Nylon scrubber
- Stiff-bristled brush
- Paintbrush
- Trisodium phosphate (3 tablespoons)
- Paper towels
- A gallon of hot water
1. Apply the Epoxy Stripper
To get rid of epoxy grout, you are going to require to first utilize an epoxy stripper. You can locate this at your regional hardware shop. Implement the stripper with a paintbrush, creating confident to get into all the nooks and crannies.
2. Wait for the Stripper to Work
Soon after you’ve utilized the stripper, hold out for it to perform its magic. Following thirty minutes, the epoxy grout will begin to bubble and loosen.
3. Scrape the Grout With a Wooden Stirrer
Once the stripper has experienced time to perform, use a picket paint stirrer to scrape the grout off the floor. This is where possessing a triangular carbide-tipped grout removing instrument comes in handy.
4. Rinse With Cool Water
Following you have scraped off the grout, rinse the surface with amazing water. Be confident to do this ahead of the stripper has a possibility to dry.
5. Repeat as Necessary
If there are nevertheless places of grout remaining, repeat steps a single by means of 4 until finally all the grout is removed. Really do not quit until finally you get every single nook and cranny.
6. Clean Up With TSP
When you’ve eliminated all the grout, it is now time to clear up the mess. To do so, mix three tablespoons of trisodium phosphate with a gallon of sizzling h2o. Use this remedy and a rigid-bristled brush to scrub the floor cleanse.
7. Rinse With Water and Dry
Soon after you’ve scrubbed the surface, rinse it with drinking water to take away any residue. Right after that, dry it with paper towels or a clean fabric. And which is it! Your tiles are now epoxy grout-free of charge.
Tips for Caring and Cleaning New Grout
As soon as you have removed the previous grout, it is now time to set up new grout. But ahead of you do, listed here are a handful of ideas for caring and cleansing your new grout.
- Wait before you walk- After applying the grout, wait at least 24 hours before walking on it. This will give the grout time to set and cure properly.
- Clean up after yourself- Grout can be a pain to clean, so it’s important to clean up as you go. Use a wet sponge to wipe away any excess grout from the tile surface.
- Seal the grout- Once the grout has had time to set, it’s now time to seal it. Sealing the grout will help protect it from spills and stains.
- Be careful with chemicals- Chemicals can damage grout, so avoid using them if possible. If you must use them, be sure to dilute them properly and rinse the surface afterward.
Final Thoughts
Tile grout removing doesn’t have to be difficult. With the right tools and a minor elbow grease, you can simply take away tile grout without detrimental your tiles.
Even if you have minor encounter, the actions outlined earlier mentioned will assist you ace it like a pro. Bear in mind to take it slow and be extra mindful with electricity equipment like drills and the rest. All the best!
Showcased Picture Credit: Dmitry Melnikov, Shutterstock
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