How to Remove Grout from Bathroom Shower Tiles
Grout, the material that fills the gaps between your bathroom shower tiles, can become discolored, moldy, and cracked over time. This can make your shower look dingy and unhygienic. Fortunately, removing old grout and replacing it with fresh grout is a relatively easy DIY project. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
1. Gather Your Supplies
Before you begin, you'll need the following tools and materials:
- Safety Glasses: Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris.
- Work Gloves: Wear gloves to protect your hands from the harsh chemicals in the grout remover.
- Grout Removal Tool: This specialized tool is designed to scrape out the old grout.
- Grout Remover: Choose a grout remover that is specifically designed for your type of grout.
- Bucket: You'll need a bucket to mix the grout remover and to dispose of the old grout.
- Sponges: Use sponges to apply the grout remover and to clean up any excess.
- Putty Knife: You'll need a putty knife to apply the new grout and to smooth it out.
- New Grout: Choose a new grout color that complements your bathroom tiles.
- Grout Sealer: This will help to prevent future staining and mold growth.
2. Prepare the Shower
- Clear the Shower: Remove any items from the shower, such as soap dishes, shampoo bottles, and shower curtains.
- Protect Surrounding Surfaces: Cover any surrounding surfaces, such as countertops, cabinets, and floors, with plastic drop cloths to prevent them from being damaged by grout remover or splashed water.
3. Apply the Grout Remover
- Follow the Instructions: Read the manufacturer's instructions carefully before applying the grout remover.
- Apply the Remover: Use a sponge to apply the grout remover to the grout lines. Make sure to completely saturate the grout.
- Let it Sit: Allow the grout remover to sit for the time specified on the product's instructions.
- Scrape the Grout: Once the grout remover has loosened the old grout, use a grout removal tool to scrape it out of the joints. You may need to repeat this process several times.
4. Clean the Shower
- Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the shower thoroughly with water to remove any remaining grout remover and old grout.
- Check for Residual Grout: If there is any remaining grout, repeat the application of grout remover and scraping process.
5. Apply the New Grout
- Prepare the New Grout: Mix the new grout according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Apply the Grout: Use a putty knife to apply the new grout to the grout lines.
- Smooth the Grout: Smooth the grout with a damp sponge, removing any excess grout.
- Let it Dry: Allow the grout to dry completely. This may take several hours.
6. Seal the Grout
- Apply the Sealer: Apply the grout sealer according to the manufacturer's instructions. This will help to prevent staining and mold growth.
- Let it Dry: Allow the sealer to dry completely.
7. Clean Up
- Remove Drop Cloths: Remove the drop cloths.
- Clean the Tools: Clean your tools and dispose of the old grout and grout remover properly.
Tips for Success
- Wear protective gear: Always wear safety glasses, gloves, and a mask when working with grout remover.
- Work in small sections: Work in small sections to avoid the grout remover from drying out too quickly.
- Use a sharp tool: Use a sharp grout removal tool for optimal results.
- Clean as you go: Clean up any spills or messes immediately.
- Be patient: Removing old grout and applying new grout can be a time-consuming process. Be patient and take your time.
Final Thoughts
With a little time and effort, you can easily remove old grout from your bathroom shower tiles and replace it with fresh new grout. This will make your shower look cleaner and more hygienic. By following the steps outlined above, you can achieve a professional-looking result.
