How to Remove and Replace Grout from Tiles?
Ceramic tiles are unquestionably one of the most durable tiling solutions when it comes to leaky bathrooms. Not only are they the most durable, but they are perhaps the most water-resistant. However, it is the grout that you use that ultimately determines the life expectancy of any tile.
Most grouts are porous and soft and therefore prone to stains and damage, but with a little maintenance, you can prevent your grout from future damage.
Megasealed have got you covered with our ‘how-to’ guide when it comes to replacing grout. And with over 23 years under our belt, these are the tried and tested tricks of the trade.
Budding DIY-ers pay close attention!
How to clean grout
With the bathroom being one of the most frequented rooms in the house, it is no wonder grout often gets dirty. It is not unusual to see a buildup of soap scum, mould and even dirt in your grout, so the first order of business is to buy a stiff-bristle brush.
Using a strong gumption, a brush and a fair amount of elbow grease you should be able to easily remove any soap scum or dirt from in between your tiles. However, stubborn stains may need some extra attention - Try soaking the tiles in bleach for 10 minutes before you get down to scrubbing - Rinse and repeat until the stain is gone.
This should get rid of mould and stains quick-smart and will leave your tiles looking good as new.
How to Remove Grout
If after your initial clean you can still see stains this might mean you have a leak. For more on fixing leaks read our How to Fix A Leaking Shower article and get one step closer to that hassle free bathroom.
The most foolproof way of preventing any further damage is to remove and replace the grout. The easiest way to remove grout is with specialized de-grouting tools. Everything you need should be supplied at your local bunnings, including:
Protective gloves and goggles
A multi-tool to remove grout, and
A grout saw to remove the hard to reach grout without damaging the tiles
Pro Tip: For DIY-ers, an oscillating multitool is your ‘top of the line’ de-grouting tool, but this might be hard to get if you are on a strict budget.
3. Applying Grout
After all the grout is removed it is time to prepare a grout mixture. Megasealed’s two-part epoxy grout Megagrout is the top of the line grout mixture and comes in a range of colours to suit all bathrooms.
Then hire a grout float to deeply fill the tile joints, waiting up to 30 minutes before you remove any excess grout mix. In most cases grout takes up to 36 hours to dry, but to be totally safe we suggest letting it set for a full 48 hours before you use your bathroom again.
While this sounds simple enough, this can be a tough task for even the handiest of men, so why not get in touch with us. Megasealed is the largest company in the industry. We have the most ISO accredited technicians handling the largest volume of clients across the country.
Plus, we have one of the fastest turn-around services in the business. We complete most jobs within 48 hours of quoting – helped by having consultants and technicians in your local area.
To arrange for your local Megasealed consultant to do an in-home no obligation free quote call us on 1300 658 007.