Full tile replacement is messy and difficult.
All you need is a couple of special tools and some time.
Fit the oscillating multitool with a grout removal blade to remove the grout quickly.
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This pop in of blade is impregnated with fine diamond chips that make quick work of pulverizing hardened grout.
A manual grout removal tool is also helpful because it’s designed to fit between tile seams.
Once the grout is dry, you wipe away its hazy residue from the tiles.
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Safety Considerations
Removing old grout can be a messy, dusty job.
If necessary, you’re free to hang plastic sheeting around the work area to confine the dust.
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Work patiently, and take care not to allow the blade to nick or chip the ceramic tile.
Pause frequently to remove dust and debris with ashop vacuum.
This time, angle the blade slightly to get close to the edges of the tile.
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double-check not to linger on the edges of the grout lines, as this can easily damage the tiles.
The grout should crumble quickly under the action of the blade.
Vacuum the grout lines as you go.
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Take care not to scratch the faces of the tiles.
The grout lines must be completely clean and dry before filling them with fresh grout.
Mix the Grout
Mix powdered grout in a small bucket, using a margin trowel.
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The proper mixture should have a smooth, paste-like consistency that is just barely pourable.
Work in alternating directions to see to it the joints are completely filled.
Repeat the same process until all of the joints are filled.
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double-check the sponge is barely wettoo much water will pull grout out of the seams.
Lightly stroke the sponge across the tile surface without pressing too hard.
Use a soft cloth to buff the surfaces of the tile and remove any remaining haze.
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If you wish, you’re free to use a haze-removing product to polish the tiles.
Many types of premixed grout do not need to be sealed.
It will generally be cheaper to regrout than to retile both in materials and labor.
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Regrouting tools are fairly inexpensive, with the oscillating multitool and grout removal blade being the most costly.
This can range in cost from $80 to $200 or more, depending on quality.
If you do not already have the tools, several companies and big box home improvement stores have rentals.
