Repairing Tile Grout

Tools for Repairing Grout:

• A razor blade (in a safety handle) for cleaning joints up to 1/8-inch wide. A grout saw for   larger joints
• A putting knife
• A grout floater for spreading the new grout
• A bucket
• A sponge or soft cloth or towel
• Masking tape
• A vacuum
• Grout to match your existing grout -- check your local hardware or home improvement store. Take scraps of the old grout to the store to help match the color.

Start by:

1. Put masking tape on the tiles along the joints where you will remove grout. This will protect the tiles from scratches.

2. Remove the old material using the razor or tile saw- never just put the new on top of the old. Never use a blade that is wider than the joint, as it can crack the tile

3. Remove the masking tape and vacuum out all loose grout particles.

4. Mix the grout mortar with a putting knife, according to the instructions. Many grout products have to stand for 10-15 minutes before spreading.

5. Lightly dampen the area to be grouted -- a sponge works well.

6. Spread the grout with the float; press the grout into the joints until it comes out of the top. Pull the float across the joints at a 45-degree angle to remove excess grout. Be careful not to lift grout out of the joints.

7. Let the grout set for about 15 minutes -- until the film on the tiles appears dry.

8. Use a slightly damp sponge to wipe off the excess. Don’t get the sponge too wet, as it could pull grout out of the joints.

9. Allow 24 hours for the grout to set before using that area.

10. In a tub or shower, where the tile will be subjected to water, you’ll want to seal the grout. You typically must wait 7-10 days for the grout to cure before sealing it.

Extra Tips

When mixed, the grout should have the consistency of peanut butter -- smooth, not crunchy! If it is too dry, it will not hold in the joints; if it is too wet, it will shrink too much when drying.

What About Mold?

The best way to get rid of mold is prevention. Once you have mold, use bleach. It will kill just about anything.

Preventing Mold!

Mold needs water to thrive, so cutting off the water supply is important. This can be achieved through routine home maintenance and a quick response to any major leak. Take steps to fix any water infiltration problems within 24 to 48 hours. Also keep the moisture level to a minimum by using an air conditioner during warm weather. Always run a fan in the bathroom while showering.

Periodically check the following for signs that water is entering the house:

• Baseboards and other moulding
• Doors
• Roofs
• Walls and ceilings
• Windows

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