Getting House ready to Sell? Here's How To Repair Tile Grout

A Do-It-Yourself Guide to Repairing Grout & Refreshing the Look of Your Tile
New grout makes a tiled area look clean and fresh.

Cracked, stained grout makes tile appear old and worn out. Repairing tile grout is an easy, inexpensive do-it-yourself project that can give a clean, new look to your tile. The time for the project will depend on the amount of grout to be repaired. Be sure to check the grout manufacturer's instructions for the length of time the new material should be allowed to dry.
Tools & MaterialsTools

•Grout saw
•Rounded stick (dowel)
•Squeegee or grout sponge
•Grout float
Materials

•Grout
•One-to-one vinegar and water solution
•Grout sealant
•Rags
•Dry towel

Matching Your Grout Color
While regrouting tile is not very complicated, matching grout color can be difficult. Get a sample chart and find the closest color match. If the color of the original grout is lighter than the sample you have chosen, you can lighten the new grout by adding more water when you mix it. If the original grout color is darker than the sample, use less water.

Always wear eye protection when removing old grout.

Types of Grout
Grout is available in four types: sanded, unsanded, acrylic latex or epoxy. Choose the correct type of grout based on the width of your tile joints and where the repair is being done.

•Measure the space between the tiles. If the space is larger than 1/8", use a sanded grout. If the width is 1/8" or smaller, use an unsanded, acrylic latex, or epoxy grout.
•Never use sanded grout with marble tiles. The sand will scratch the marble. Instead, use an unsanded or acrylic latex tile grout.
•Replacement grout for tile countertops should be mildew and stain resistant.

Repairing the Grout
1.Clean the broken grout area with the vinegar and water mixture.

2.Use a grout saw to remove the loose or damaged grout. Be careful not to chip the tile.

3.Dampen the joints with water. Use a paper towel to absorb any water that puddles in the grooves.

4.Mix the grout according to the manufacturer's directions.

5.Use a grout float to spread the grout, filling the joints completely.

6.Smooth the joint surface with a rounded stick.

7.Remove the excess grout with a squeegee or damp grout sponge. Rinse the squeegee or sponge periodically. Wipe the area once.

8.Allow grout to set firmly. Follow manufacturer's instructions. If you are repairing grout in a bathroom, seal the grout with a grout sealant after the grout dries completely.

9.Clean the tile with a damp rag.

10.Allow to dry until a cloudy haze appears on the tile.

11.Polish the tile with a dry towel to remove the haze.

If the grout continues to chip or crack, the tile underlayment may be exposed to moisture or may be uneven. Have a professional check the underlayment and repair it if necessary.

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