How to Regrout Bathroom Tile: Fixing Bathroom Walls

Updated: Jul. 26, 2019

Simplify this tough job with a grout removal tool and learn how to regrout bathroom tile.

Family Handyman

Learn how to regrout bathroom tile. Simplify the tough grout removal part with an inexpensive power grinder. It speeds up the job so you can move on the easier parts, regrouting and polishing the tile.

By the DIY experts of The Family Handyman Magazine

Time
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How to Remove Grout From Tile Step 1: Grind and scrape out the old grout

Photo 1: Grind out the grout

Attach the removal unit and set the bit depth to 1/4 in. Run the tool guides between the tiles and grind through the old grout. Clean joints with a grout saw.

Renewing old grout has always involved long hours of hacking away at old, worn grout with a tiny grout saw. Simplify the job by purchasing a grout removal kit that attaches to a Dremel tool. (See photo below). It has a high-speed carbide bit that effortlessly chews away old grout, and guides that keep you from chipping the tile edges. Make sure to wear safety glasses while grinding (Photo 1). Use the grout saw to scrape out edges and corners and to clean out the joints.

Buy a Grout Removal Attachment

A grout removal kit contains the grinding guide and a grout saw for cleaning along edges where the grinder can’t reach. It’s designed to fit a Dremel tool.

How to Remove Grout From Tile Step 2: Regrout the tile

Photo 2: Spread the grout

Using a grout float, push the grout diagonally across and into the vacant joints.

Vacuum up any dust or debris left after the grinding process. Take a chunk of your current grout to a home center or tile shop to find a match. Also buy a latex additive to mix into the new grout to make it more durable. Mix the grout slightly thicker than peanut butter and then apply it (Photo 2).

Shower Tile Video: Removing Tile Grout

Simplify ceramic tile grout removal by using a carbide-grit blade in a reciprocating saw or an oscillating tool. Both speed up this tough, tedious chore.

How to Remove Grout From Tile Step 3: Clean and polish the tile

Photo 3: Wipe off excess

Wipe the excess grout and film off the face of the tile with a damp sponge, rinsing it often.

Photo 4: Buff with a cloth

When the film reappears, buff the entire area with a dry cloth.

Let the grout set up for approximately 20 minutes until a film develops over the tile, then clean the area as shown in Photos 3 and 4. After the grout has dried for a week, protect it with a grout sealer.

Required Tools for this Grout Removal Project

Have the necessary tools for this DIY project lined up before you start—you’ll save time and frustration.

Safety glasses

You’ll also need a sponge, a grout removal kit, a grout float and rubber gloves.

Required Materials for this Grout Removal Project

Avoid last-minute shopping trips by having all your materials ready ahead of time. Here’s a list.

Grout
Grout sealer

Originally Published: October 03, 2018