Sanded grout is commonly used to complete tiled installations, especially porcelain and ceramic tiles. It is also used to fill joints between stones and concrete blocks. The grout has a rough texture due to the sand content. With time, the grout may break due to normal aging or because of some heavy impact. This creates an untidy appearance that spoils the beauty of your installation.
It is best to remove broken grout and replace it with new grout. If left unattended, it provides an entryway for moisture into your installation. This invites more damage and more costs for you. You can easily undertake repair of the damaged grout with the help of the guide below.
What You'll Need:
- Plastic sheets
- Duct tape
- Rotary cutter, with masonry cutting bit
- Wet-dry vacuum
- Sanded grout
- Grout float
- Mild detergent
- Water
- Bucket
- Mop
- Sponge
- Safety goggles
- Breathing mask
Preparations
If the repair is to take place in a room, it is best to remove most of the loose objects from the room. This will ensure that dust doesn’t settle on the items. Spread plastic sheets over fixed objects and other areas of the room you don’t want to be disturbed. Secure the sheets with duct tape. Put on safety goggles and a breathing mask to protect against dust.
Cut through the Grout
Use your rotary cutter to cut into the broken grout. Begin at the damaged point and work your way all around the tile or stone. Use short, swift movements to cut back and forth into the grout. Steadily cut into the grout until your cutter reaches the substrate. You’ll know you’ve reached the substrate when you notice a different color from the grout. Be careful not to damage the adjacent tiles or stones as you cut through the grout.
Vacuum
Use a wet-dry vacuum with a hose attachment to remove dust from the site and adjacent areas. Clean the area with a damp sponge to clear all traces of dirt and fine dust. Allow about 3 hours for the area to air-dry. You may use a heat gun or hairdryer if you want the area to dry faster.
Add New Grout
Prepare enough sanded grout to replace the one removed. Use a grout float to fill the grout into the cleared joints. It is best to apply small amounts at a time as it makes it easier to fit along the grout line. Be sure the new grout matches the level of the old grout at the surface. This helps to create a uniform appearance. Wipe away excess grout with a damp sponge before it dries up. Allow 24 hours for the new grout to cure completely.
Cleaning
Prepare a solution of mild detergent and water in a bucket. Remove all the plastic sheets used to cover items or floor space. Use a sponge to clean the wall or a mop for the floor. Replace all items you may have removed from the room earlier.
Source: www.DoItYourself.com
