Regrouting a tile floor can refresh its look and protect the subfloor from moisture damage. The process involves removing old grout, cleaning the joints, mixing new grout, applying it, and cleaning the surface.
Here's a breakdown of the steps involved in regrouting a tile floor:
1. Removing the Old Grout
The first crucial step is to remove the old grout. As the reference states, there are "no tricks to removing grout, you simply have to begin scraping the old material out." This is typically done using a grout saw or a multi-tool with a grout removal blade.
- Carefully scrape along the grout lines, removing as much of the old grout as possible without damaging the tile edges.
- Focus on getting a consistent depth to ensure the new grout adheres properly.
- Work in small sections to avoid fatigue.
2. Preparing the Grout Lines
Once the old grout is removed, it's essential to clean up the grout lines. This means getting rid of any loose debris, dust, or remnants of the old grout left in the joints.
- Use a utility knife or grout removal tool to scrape out stubborn bits.
- A stiff brush can help dislodge smaller particles.
Next, vacuum the area thoroughly. Vacuuming is critical to remove all fine dust and debris from the grout lines and surrounding tiles. A clean surface is essential for the new grout to bond effectively.
- Use a shop vacuum with a hose attachment to get into the grout lines.
- Ensure the entire floor is free of dust and particles.
3. Mixing the New Grout
Properly mix your new grout according to the manufacturer's instructions. Grout is typically a powder that needs to be mixed with water (or a latex additive for enhanced performance) to a specific consistency.
- Use clean water and a clean mixing bucket.
- Add the powder to the liquid gradually, mixing until smooth and lump-free.
- Let the mixture stand for the recommended slake time before remixing.
- The consistency should be like peanut butter or thick toothpaste – not too watery or too dry.
| Step | Action | Key Tool(s) |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Remove Old Grout | Scrape out existing grout | Grout saw, multi-tool |
| 2. Clean Grout Lines | Remove debris, vacuum thoroughly | Stiff brush, vacuum |
| 3. Mix New Grout | Prepare grout according to instructions | Bucket, mixer |
| 4. Apply New Grout | Force grout into joints | Grout float |
| 5. Clean Tiles | Remove excess grout immediately | Sponge, clean water |
| 6. Buff Haze | Remove dried residue after curing begins | Microfiber cloth, buffer |
4. Regrouting the Empty Joints
Now it's time to regrout the empty joints. This is the main application step.
- Scoop a manageable amount of mixed grout onto a grout float.
- Hold the float at a 45-degree angle to the tile surface.
- Force the grout down into the joints, working in small sections.
- Swipe the float across the joints in different directions to ensure they are completely filled and compacted.
- Hold the float at a steeper angle (near 90 degrees) to scrape excess grout off the tile surface as you work.
5. Cleaning Your Tiles
After applying grout to a section, you must clean your tiles before the grout hardens completely. This initial cleaning removes the bulk of the excess grout from the tile surface.
- Use a damp (not soaking wet) grout sponge and wipe the tile surface using a light, circular motion.
- Rinse the sponge frequently in a bucket of clean water.
- Change the rinse water often to avoid spreading grout haze back onto the tiles.
- Be careful not to pull grout out of the joints while cleaning.
6. Buffing Away Grout Haze
Once the initial cleaning is done and the grout has begun to cure slightly (check manufacturer instructions for timing), you will need to buff away grout haze. Grout haze is a thin film left on the tile surface after the grout dries.
- Use a clean, dry, soft cloth or microfiber towel.
- Buff the tile surface with firm, circular motions to remove the haze.
- For stubborn haze, you might need a specialized grout haze remover product, following the product instructions carefully.
Allow the grout to cure fully according to the manufacturer's recommended time before sealing or exposing the floor to heavy traffic or moisture.
