When tile and grout start to show their age, homeowners are often tempted to replace them entirely, but with a little skill, you can save up to 70% off the replacement cost and have your tile looking like new. again.
Rerouting is the process of removing existing mortar fill between an existing tile installation. Rerouting is a tedious process but can be done successfully with a little patience and perseverance.
The first thing to do is establish whether or not you need to grout by determining if you have sanded or unsanded grout. This is important because re-grouting should only be done on unsanded grout joints. There are other restoration methods for sanded grout joints that are more effective, such as changing the color of the grout. Once you determine this, it’s time to gather the necessary tools to complete the job.
There are a plethora of tools that can be used for re-grouting, but let’s face it, re-grouting is a tedious process and how you remove the grout will determine how long it takes and the quality of the result. It is important that you remove at least 1/16 inch of grout so that the new grout sets in. If you don’t, it’s bound to flake off the next time you clean. I am going to tell you the most important tools to use to make your job easier.
First, for the grout removal process you will need:
- First Choice: Roto Zip with a Diamond Tile Cutting Blade and Attachment (This tool is for an advanced user and should only be used by someone who is not afraid of the speed at which it spins. This tool will produce the best results for all fields but can also cause damage if not handled properly.
- Second choice: Fein Multimaster with a non-carbide diamond cutter. (This tool is for an advanced and novice user and is the safest tool for removal, but it takes a bit more time. It also has many other uses and is a great investment in my opinion)
- Dremel with tile cutter bit (This tool is for edges, corners and touch-ups)
- Wet or dry vacuum
- Blade scraper to remove old caulking
These are the most important tools for the removal process and will produce the best results for both minor removal and large-scale removal. There are other hand tools you can use, but they are only good for very small jobs.
Next, you will need tools for the grouting process:
- 2 buckets (one for mixing grout and one for water)
- grout float
- Margin palette for blending
- grout sponge
- Terry towels for cleaning, final dusting and sealing
Now you need the supplies to clean and prepare the joints for the new grout and to seal the new grout.
- phosphoric acid cleaner
- 511 Impregnating Sealant
- Chemical resistant spray bottle.
- scrubbing brush
- 3M Heavy Duty Scouring Pads
In addition, for your protection you will need safety glasses, dust masks, ear plugs and chemical resistant rubber cleaning gloves. This should complete your project arsenal. Now let’s get to the process.
I will assume that you chose the Multimaster for your removal tool. Work in areas of approximately 2 feet. x 2 ft. using long, even strokes to remove the grout and let the machine do the work. Remember, you only need to remove about 1/16th of an inch, don’t try to go any further, it will only make things more difficult for you. Leave about an inch from all corners and edges. Once you finish removing the grout from all areas of the field, you need to do all the edges and corners, and you’ll do this with the tile cutter bit and dremel. If you want to save some time, simply remove the top layer of grout to expose the white underneath because when you acid wash the tile and grout, it will light up with a new look. When you’re done making corners and edges, remove any traces of old caulking with your blade scraper. You are now ready to prepare for the new grout.
Fill your spray bottle about 25% phosphoric acid and 75% water and work again in about 2 foot areas. x 2 feet starting at the bottom of your project if it is vertical. Spray acid and scrub with your scrub brush then clean tile with 3M pads and water to remove soap scum. Rinse well with water and vacuum with a wet or dry vacuum, then blot dry further with terry cloth towels. If there are visible traces of putty, try to remove them with a little acetone. You are now ready to apply the grout.
There are many colors of grout to choose from, but in this project I’m going to assume it’s a standard dry white unsanded grout. Mix your grout in one of the buckets with your margin trowel to a pliable paste and spread it over the tile and grout evenly with your grout trowel. Then take your grout float and hold it at a 45 degree angle to remove excess mortar and fill in any grout joints. When you’re done grouting, go back and gently clean with the grout sponge and water, rinsing the sponge frequently. Don’t leave too much water on the sponge because at this point moisture is an enemy. Don’t worry about the light haze you’ll remove with your towels. When you’re done cleaning, let it dry for a couple of hours and then buff with your terry cloth towels. Allow project to set at least 4-5 hours and seal with 511 Impregnating Sealer following manufacturer’s instructions. When you’re done, seal any necessary areas, such as the bottom of the sink, the bottom of the tub rim, or the bottom of the shower.
Health!