Repairing Tile Grout
Repairing Cracked or Crumbling Tile Grout
Though most cracks start small, they grow over time. Eventually, water
seeps in and damages the base beneath the tile and eventually the tile
crumbles. To repair the grout, you'll need a few inexpensive specialty
tools, including a toothed tool called a grout saw (available at tile
dealers), a sponge, and a rubber grout float. You'll also need to buy
replacement grout that is the same color.
1) Use a grout saw or the pointed end of a lever can opener to remove
cracked and loose grout and to score stable grout. Brush away dust and
vacuum the surface.
2) Mix replacement grout according to label directions.
3) Holding the rubber grout float's leading edge up at a slight angle,
spread grout across the surface. Be sure to work it into all joints
completely.
4) Use your finger to smooth the grout at the joints.
5) Allow the grout to set up for about a half hour, then use a damp sponge to wipe excess off of the surface.
6) Let the grout dry for several days, then apply penetrating silicone sealer for protection.
NOTE: If you have a newly-tiled interior floor and
the grout is cracking, consider removing the grout between tiles as
discussed above, and replacing it with a sanded caulk. This only works
if grout joints are narrower than 1/4-inch because the caulk is not
designed for wider gaps. Because the cracking is probably caused by
floor deflection from foot traffic, consider trying to reinforce the
floor from below to strengthen it.
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David Valente
www.davidvalente.com
Prudential Sussex Realty
Committed Service. Real Estate Sales.
Valente Real Estate North Vancouver. Real Estate West Vancouver. Real Estate Downtown Vancouver. Real Estate in the Lower Mainland. Buy and Sell Real Estate. Dave Valente