Get your grout removal tool and start in one corner, work in one metre square sections. Hold the tool and use your other hand to steady the tool-holding hand. Apply pressure and drag the removal tool along the grout line. Repeat until you have removed the grout and move onto the next section. In this guide, we’ll take you through the whole process of fitting wall tiles, from planning, to cutting and laying tiles, and finishing off with sealant and grouting.

You might want a simple refresh or you are looking to change the colour of the grout and the current grout is in decent condition you don’t need to remove all of it. Just make sure that you remove at least 2mm so that the new grout can cover the old. How often should grout be replaced? Dampen the sponge and keep wiping the wall until the excess grout is gone. Leave to dry. When the grout is dry buff clean the tiles with a clean cloth. Do I have to remove all old grout before regrouting? Natural stone and some porcelain tiles may need to be sealed after application. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and seal before and after grouting. This helps protect the tiles from staining. Tiles are usually given batch numbers, so to ensure proper colour matching try to buy all your required tiles from the same batch.

Before & After Results

Caulk – or silicone – offers more flexibility and is waterproof and is used in areas where there may be more movement, such as around the edge of a bath. You could use silicone caulk in the vertical where two walls meet as an extra water repellent in showers. What Can I Use Instead Of a Grouting Tool? Keeping your bathroom tiles clean is a relatively easy job but when the grout starts to become dirty or discoloured, it can ruin the appearance of your bathroom. If you haven’t tried already, there are many high quality grout cleaners you can use but if they weren’t up for the job, the best way to clean the grout upon your tiles is to remove and replace it. Grout should be cleaned as part of your regular cleaning schedule and as long as it has been sealed correctly you shouldn’t notice discolouration. But if you are using 2mm or 3mm tile spacers and don't have a grouting tool to hand you can use the top of a round pencil to get the uniform finish. Leave in water to moisten and dip each time you use the pencil. Can I Apply GroutWithoutA Float?

When tiling onto walls you need to consider the combined weight of the tiles and adhesive. Different wall surfaces will be able to safely support different weights. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions whilst you’re planning so you get the right tiles. Our handy guide below summarises the maximum weights different walls can take: Thorough preparation is crucial if you want your tiles to be laid properly and last a long time. Before you start laying tiles your wall needs to be absolutely clean, dry and free of dust and grease.Use a sealer rather than grout release if you want to enhance the color of stone or leave a “wet” looking finish. You may have to apply another coat of sealer after grouting for maximum protection and to enhance the color of the stone. Required Tools for this Project Alternatively, you can use an electric grout removal tool. This makes the process less labour intensive, but you will have to pay more for the tool.

The most common type of grout available, and the easiest to use, is a cement-based grout which is porous and requires sealing to prevent water ingress. Think of it like the surface of a pumice stone with holes that can catch dirt and take up water. Apply a thin coat of sealer to porous stone. Follow the application instructions on the label. Wipe up excess sealer with a cloth to avoid puddles. Then let the sealer dry before you grout. Installing tiling in your kitchen or bathroom is a wonderful way to make a statement which reflects your individual tastes. Although tiling has traditionally been thought of as a complex DIY task, it’s perfectly possible to achieve a professional finish with thorough planning and by carefully working your way through the steps we provide in this guide.You can use one of the best grout cleaners to easily do this. Alternatively, you can use a 50/50 bleach and water mix and scrub with a toothbrush. Or, for a harsher clean, you can try a bicarbonate of soda and distilled white vinegar mix. Make sure you reseal the grout afterwards to prevent further discolouration.