When you're renovating a bathroom or kitchen, the hardest part may be removing the grout from the tiles that are already installed. Grout is made from a mixture of water, cement, and sand, which hardens over time to become as hard as rock. The strength of the grout makes it the choice of many people because it keeps the tiles from shifting. Learn how to disassemble the grout to save on expensive repairmen's fees.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Preparation Stage
Step 1. Prepare the necessary equipment
There are many tools that can be used to remove grout. The tool selected depends on the size of the budget, the amount and type of grout to be unloaded, and the frequency with which the grout is dismantled.
- You can use a power tool (power tool). There is a wide selection of tools, ranging from grout removal tools or re-grout tools, which will help you remove grout quickly and easily. This tool is useful if there is a large amount of grout to disassemble, or you will be disassembling the grout frequently.
- You can use manual tools. If you can't use the power tool, but there is a large amount of grout that needs to be removed, use a manual tool. This tool is like a small shovel.
- If there is only a small amount of grout to disassemble, or if it is a soft type such as rubber grout, use a standard razor blade, such as an X-acto knife or an all-purpose knife.
Step 2. Cover the edges of the tile with painter's tape if you just want to remove the grout without disturbing the tile
- Cover the surface of the tile you want to protect. When the grout is removed, the debris will fly and can damage the tiles. Spread the cloth over the area you want to keep to cover it well.
- If necessary, use tape to secure the edges of the fabric and make sure you completely seal off the drainage.
Step 3. Put on a safety suit before starting the disassembly of the grout
You will also need to wear safety glasses, a dust mask, and thick gloves that can protect against cuts. To be more comfortable, wear knee pads because your work will take a long time. Also wear boots and trousers.
Part 2 of 3: Unpacking Nat
Step 1. Make an incision in the middle
Slice down the center of each grout line using a grout saw, preferably carbide-bladed. Do this on all lines of grout that you want to disassemble.
Step 2. Remove the grout
Scrape the grout between the tiles using a grout scraper, and use the previous incision as a starting point. Insert the triangular end of the grout scraper into the incision made with the grout saw. Press firmly and slide the scraper along the grout line about one tile away, but work carefully so as not to damage it. Lift the scraper, return to the starting point, and repeat this process until all of the grout in the area has been completely removed.
If you don't have a grout scraper, use a small, cold chisel with a hammer, or knife blade. Adjust the angle of the chisel so that it is away from the tile and tap the base with a hammer until the grout comes off the floor and edges of the tile
Step 3. Trim the edges of the tile
Clean the edges of the tile by scraping off any remaining grout. Hold the chisel so that it is parallel to the floor and the cutting blade is touching the edge of the tile. Tap the base lightly with a hammer until the rest of the grout comes off. Sweep debris and grout dust in the gaps between tiles using a broom or vacuum cleaner.
Part 3 of 3: After Work Cleanup Stage
Step 1. Remove the tape and clean the grout lines
Peel off the tape around the edges of the tile, then wash it with soap and water. You may need a scouring pad to scrub excess grout off the edges of the tile. Scrub the edges of the tile until there is no grout remaining.
Step 2. Clean the tiles
Wipe down the tile immediately if you don't want to throw it away, and buff the area several times. Residual grout can quickly harden on the tile, making it difficult to clean without damaging it. Spray a solution made of vinegar and water in a balanced ratio (1:1) on the tiles, and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping off with a clean cloth.
Tips
If you're planning on storing tiles, it's a good idea to ask someone with experience in grouting for help. The risk of tile damage is very high if you are not used to using a grout saw or grout scraper
Warning
- Always wear eye protection when disassembling the grout. Tile grout chips can injure your eyes from flying at high speeds.
- The carbide blade is very fine. You should always wear cut-resistant gloves to protect your fingers from cutting them by the saw.
