Dirty Grout Removal?

Question

I have ceramic tile in a bathroom with dirty grout (probably not sealed correctly) that actually is turning color to a dark grimy brown. I experimented with a dremel tool and grout bit to remove the grout. I can adjust the depth of the grout bit and removed the surface grime just enough to show nice clean grout. Can I stop here and just seal what I've got or do I have to dig out all of the grout and re-grout and seal? What is the approximate depth of grout lines? Thanks!

Answer 1

Well, I have good news and bad news...... The good news is that you don't have to remove the existing ceramic tile! The bad news is that you can't regrout over the top of the existing grout. The old grout must be removed by hand or by using a small electric  grinder There are two hand methods you can use to remove old grout. The remainder of the grout may crumble when you use a carbide tipped scraper tool specifically designed for grout removal. If not, you may have to use a fine tipped screwdriver and a hammer to remove the grout.The carbide tipped scrapers can be found at most stores that sell ceramic tile. They are very inexpensive. Be careful, as they can easily scratch the glazed tile surface. You apply firm, but gentle pressure, as you draw the scraper across the grout. It may take repeated strokes before you remove a significant portion of the grout. Move on when you expose the unglazed edges of the tile.

Answer 2

Try Arm & Hammer scrub free cleaner. It'll make it white once it sits on there for about 5-10 min.

Answer 3

Step1Tape off a small area to begin working. Use painter's tape on the ceramic tile so it doesn't get scratched.

Step2Work on a small area at a time so nothing is passed over. Use a grout saw to remove the grout. Grout saws are inexpensive and available at most hardware stores. Run the saw along the grout line.

Step3Brush or vacuum out any flakes or residue after removing the grout. Use a cleaner and a wet rag to further remove any residue left in the grout lines.

Step4Mix the new grout according to the manufacturer's instructions. Don't use too much water because this causes the grout to crack later.

Step5Apply the grout to the grout lines using a float working from the bottom up on a wall or from the back to the front on a countertop. Allow the grout to dry for five minutes.

Step6Wipe the ceramic tiles with a wet sponge to remove excess grout. Use a dry rag to wipe the tiles only. The new grout is set in 20 minutes.

Step7Add a thin coat of grout after the first application has dried. This coat fills in tiny holes and leaves a smooth finish. After this has dried, clean the grout with a citrus-based cleaner before adding the sealer. Follow the directions on the sealer closely before applying. If done properly, the grout won't become discolored again.

Answer 4

It would be easier to use a grout brush to remove the top layer. If it's sealed it wont hurt it will be OK but Having the grout line to low it will catch more dirt making it harder to clean. If you look at the edge of your tile you will see it curve down on the top edge The bottom of the curve is the grout line. It sounds like you are a little low so I would just re grout it .It takes too long with a dremal .Get a grout brush and take most of it out (easy and fast) then re grout it .If you have never grouted before  just follow the instructions ! You will be surprised how easy it really is! Hope this helps you

Answer 5

You can remove enough grout and re grout over it but be sure to remove enough that the new grout is thick enough. You can do this also w/ a utility knife. Id say about half if not 3/4 of the old grout. and remember to caulk those corners w/ the matching Color caulk that is intended to look like your grout. If the tiles are say 4x4 or smaller use non sanded grout if large tiles use sanded grout. also before sealing again allow the grout to dry this is often 48 hours to make sure all the water is gone if not then you will have Yellowing under your sealer.. Read the sealer to be sure of this exact time.

A good rule of thumb is that grout lines are the same thickness as the tile used so usually an 1/8 of an inch.

Answer 6

Try white vinegar and a small brush......It will take some time but it will be worth it.