How To Repair Bathroom Grout

Repairing grout is a simple process that will refresh the look of your bathroom. With the right tools and materials, you can not only improve the look of the bathroom, but you can make that grout and tiles fully waterproof, more durable, and remaining that way for years to come.

To learn how to remove and repair grout, follow these simple detailed steps below.

When to remove grout

The first step is to identify when you need to replace the grout.

• If your grout is cracking or crumbling, you will need to remove it or water will leak through.
• If your grout is discoloured or mouldy, you can try to clean it with bleach or you can remove and replace it.

How to remove grout

Removing grout takes moderate physical effort and can get dusty, but using the right tools and materials, you can easily do this yourself and it shouldn’t take you more than half a day’s work.

Tools and materials required

• Dust mask
• Dustpan and brush
• Ear Muffs
• Grout saw
• Multi-tool with grout removal blade (highly recommended)
• Safety goggles
• Cloth (to dust away any debris or old grout)
• Drop sheet
• Masking tape.

Steps on how to remove grout

1. Put your safety gear on.
2. Cover the drain opening and/or cover areas with a drop sheet.
3. Using the multi-tool, cut into the grout to remove it. The advantage of using the multi-tool is that it does all the work for you. As you cut the grout away, sweep the dust as you go so you can see what you’re doing.
4. If you approach any difficult to reach areas, use a grout saw to help you remove the grout. It allows you to work closely in these areas without damaging your tiles.
5. Once the old grout has been removed, dust any excess or debris away to clean the surface and prepare it for new grout.

How to replace grout

Tools and materials required

• A cloth (to clean the tiles)
• Bucket of water
• A separate clean bucket
• Dust mask
• Gloves
• Mixing paddle
• Safety glasses
• Drop sheets
• Grout float
• Grout powder
• Masking tape
• Grout mix (choose an appropriate colour)
• Shower Plug (to waterproof the grout)

All the tools and materials recommended above can be purchased at your local hardware store or online.

Steps on how to replace grout

1. Put on your safety gear.
2. Following the instructions on your grout mix, prepare the fresh grout in a clean bucket.
3. Lay down the drop sheets on the floor to protect your surroundings. Mask any surface you need to protect.
4. Start by dipping your grout float into the mixture and spread a generous amount onto the tiles.
5. Use the float to apply the grout to all the joints.
   Pro tip: Grout diagonally across the tiles to ensure the mixture is evenly spread across the gaps of the tiles.
6. For any excess grout, run the flat edge of your float to remove it.
7. Keep applying the grout until the mixture in the joints starts to set.
8. Using a damp sponge (not wet), wipe diagonally across the tiles to reveal neatly finished joints.
9. Once the grout is completely dry, buff the tiles and grout with a soft cloth.

To protect the grout and keep it in this fresh condition, we will now apply Shower Plug.

The importance of sealing your grout and shower tiles

To protect the work and prevent any leaking through your tiles and grout, you will need to use Shower Plug and apply it to seal the surface. This will prevent leaks, mould growth, reduce grout erosion and also reduce the effort and detergent required to clean the surface. This will last for at least ten years.

Order Shower Plug online to seal your grout repair

Proudly Australian made and produced, protect your masonry or tiled surfaces from any more potential leaks or water damage with Shower Plug.

Easily order online and have it delivered or purchase it at your local Bunnings warehouse.