How to Remove and Repair Crumbling Tile Grout
Damaged or missing grout between the bathroom tiles is unsightly. It can certainly pay to know how to remove and repair crumbling tile grout. Left unchecked this damage can allow ingress of water which can lead to more extensive (and expensive) repairs down the line. It is an easy DIY job. Let’s get to it!
Margin trowel
Grout float
Grout mix
Soft sponge
Begin by cleaning the surface of the tiles in the area to be restored.
Then, using the grout saw, remove any loose or cracked grout from the affected joints. The saw cuts on the backward stroke so it is more of a raking action.
Vacuum up any remaining grout particles from the grout spaces.
Mix the grout powder with water, to the manufacturer’s instructions. Only mix sufficient for the area that you are immediately working on. This prevents the grout from drying out before you use it. Once it starts to harden it becomes increasingly unworkable.
Lay the mixed grout liberally onto the tile surface, using a margin trowel. Make sure that you work it well into all the gaps.
Then with a grout float at a 45 degree angle, firmly and evenly spread the grout over the part that you are repairing.
Allow the grout to dry. The time required can be found in the product information.
Once dry, remove the excess grout from the surface of the tiles with a damp sponge. Any remaining residue can be buffed off with a dry cloth later.
That’s it! Time to step back and admire your handiwork.
Repairing grouting is a great skill to have. It is very easy and cost effective to do. Why not check your bathroom now and see where you could use your new know-how?
Supplies Needed
Grout sawMargin trowel
Grout float
Grout mix
Soft sponge
Step by Step Instructions
Before you start, it is a good idea to wear a dust mask so that you do not inhale any airborne grout dust.Begin by cleaning the surface of the tiles in the area to be restored.
Then, using the grout saw, remove any loose or cracked grout from the affected joints. The saw cuts on the backward stroke so it is more of a raking action.
Vacuum up any remaining grout particles from the grout spaces.
Mix the grout powder with water, to the manufacturer’s instructions. Only mix sufficient for the area that you are immediately working on. This prevents the grout from drying out before you use it. Once it starts to harden it becomes increasingly unworkable.
Lay the mixed grout liberally onto the tile surface, using a margin trowel. Make sure that you work it well into all the gaps.
Then with a grout float at a 45 degree angle, firmly and evenly spread the grout over the part that you are repairing.
Allow the grout to dry. The time required can be found in the product information.
Once dry, remove the excess grout from the surface of the tiles with a damp sponge. Any remaining residue can be buffed off with a dry cloth later.
That’s it! Time to step back and admire your handiwork.
Repairing grouting is a great skill to have. It is very easy and cost effective to do. Why not check your bathroom now and see where you could use your new know-how?