Regrouting tiles step-by-step
Whenever a ceramic tile job begins to appear old and dingy, there is a simple solution that you can take before giving in and installing new ceramic tiles, you can simply remove the grout from the joints and pack them with fresh and new grout, which will restore the look of the job.
Meaning of Regrouting
If you have tried cleaning the grout between your floor or wall tiles but haven't achieved the desired results after doing so, rerouting might be an option for you. As a two-step process, regrouting entails using an oscillating tool to remove the existing grout from the joints between the tiles, as well as the seams between the tiles. It is a relatively simple way of replacing the grout. Regrouting of bathroom tiles can be categorized into two basic steps:-
- Firstly, with some tools and the help of some manual scraping, the old hardened grout built up between the tiles should be removed from the seams, or joints, between them.
- In the next step, you are going to mix up some new grout and apply it with a grout float to the tile, and then you are going to clean it off with a sponge.
With a utility knife, manually scrape between each set of tiles after you have masked the area. Once the grout has been mixed, it will be applied to the tiles using a grout float and cleaned up by using a sponge after the grout has been removed. As soon as the grout has dried completely, you can simply replace it as needed. It is a simple job that can be done by any homeowner, but it can be complicated and messy at the same time.
Step-by-step guidance on regrouting the bathroom tiles
If you are wondering whether you can regrout your dingy bathroom tiles on your own, then the answer is yes, as it is a simple job. If you are not aware of regrouting the procedure then follow the below-mentioned step to achieve the desired result.
1. Don't compromise while choosing the right material
To your knowledge, grout usually loses its value and gets discolored if not used for long times, as it is made of cement. Grout is usually made up of cement but some specific grouts like epoxy grouts. Epoxy grouts are considered superior compared to other types of grouts due to the presence of absorption and bonding properties.
This kind of specific grouts are durable, flexible to apply, and additionally, come in various colors and distinctive properties.
2. Remove the old grout
The process of removing the old grout from a wall will likely be messy and time-consuming, even if just a thin layer of the old grout needs to be removed. You should be prepared to spend between two hours scraping off some of the old grout before you can begin to lay the new grout channels. If you are using a channel, make sure that it is deep enough so that new grout will be able to bond, and wear a mask to prevent inhaling the dust from the process.
By using a grout removal tool, you should be able to remove the top layer of old grout up to a specified depth. Grout saws or other types of grout removal tools can be used to remove the grout.
3. Remove any unwanted dirt from the workplace
To ensure that the grout line remains clean and dry before applying the new material, you have to maintain it clean. In spite of the fact that you vacuum, some small particles may remain on the floor.
After washing and removing any dirt that has accumulated in the channel, wipe it all down with a damp cloth and let air dry for a few hours before you use it again. Prior to filling the grout lines with a new grout mixture, check to make sure that the project area is completely dry.
4. The new grout must be applied
The grout for bathroom tiles can be found both in powdered form that has to be mixed by hand or it can be found as a semi-liquid semi-premixed paste in various tube sizes. Because of this, the directions of use may vary from product to product.
Spread a sufficient amount of the mixture diagonally across the grout lines using a grout float and scoop a sufficient amount into a bowl. As you pack it into the channel, make sure you press it down firmly so it sticks in place.
Once the excess grout has been removed from the tiles, you will need to smooth out all of the edges and smooth out the corners with a clean, wet sponge.
5. finishing the task
When sealing new grout joints, it is recommended to use a dry, clean cloth to apply the grout sealer, and then allow the sealant to soak into the joints for a few minutes before wiping the tile surface clean.
When you are using a caulking gun, you will need to apply continuous pressure to the tip of the tube in order to create a smooth, consistent joint. Now that the grout has been removed, all that needs to be done is to regrout it with a wet finger.