Getting Rid of Grubby Grout
Even with regular care and cleaning, there will be times when the grout between tiles will need to be removed or repaired. This is because grout is a porous substance that absorbs dirt over a period of time and, as tile and grout are usually used in areas that get damp and dirty such as kitchens and bathrooms, over time the grout will start to discolour and look grubby. Re-grouting the top layer or completely replacing the old grout will instantly make any tiled area look cleaner, newer and more appealing.
Your first step is to use masking tape to cover the surrounding tiles for protection, after which you can either re-grout or completely remove and replace the grout.
If you re-grout, you will only need to remove the top three mm of grout around the tiles using an inexpensive tool called a grout rake. Simply pull the rake’s toothed blade along the existing grout to take off three mm. You can then cover the remaining grout with new grout.
In most cases, to get rid of all the existing grout you will still use the grout rake. However, if the rake cannot get rid of all the grout, you will also need to use a grout saw. Firmly pull the rake or saw over the lines of grout. Do this a few times until the grout breaks away from the tiles; brush the old grout from the joint until it is completely clear, and then apply the new grout.
Ridding floor tiles of grout will usually require a grout rake and a chisel. Floor tile grout is stronger than what is used on walls because it is often mixed with sand.